Yinhan Liu, a renowned natural language processing expert who successfully sold a startup earlier this year, is embarking on a new entrepreneurial venture with LeyLine. This Seattle-based company is developing AI-powered production tools tailored for creative professionals in the video production industry.
LeyLine’s innovative software seamlessly integrates with computer graphic applications used by video production studios. Liu explained,
We provide highly optimized generative AI models through our API to automate time-consuming workflows, such as converting images to 3D assets and smoothing frame-by-frame animations. While these tasks traditionally required significant time, our proprietary models can now automate them for our customers.”
In addition to automating complex tasks, LeyLine’s software assists with storyboarding and generating low-resolution 3D models from 2D images. The company combines its proprietary AI systems with third-party models to deliver these capabilities.
Currently, LeyLine is working with early customers and anticipates generating revenue later this year. The company also operates a talent marketplace, connecting studios with artists and freelancers, further supporting the creative industry.
Liu has a rich background in technology and AI. She previously co-founded BirchAI, a Seattle startup that enhanced customer support for healthcare companies. BirchAI, which emerged from Seattle’s AI2 Incubator, was acquired in March by healthcare tech firm Sagility. Prior to this, Liu worked at Facebook, contributing to the development of RoBERTa, a widely-used deep learning model.
LeyLine was co-founded by Liu, Suzan Su, and Qiushi Powers. Su, based in China, is a seasoned film industry executive and producer with expertise in computer graphics. Powers brings experience from his background in banking and corporate management.
The company recently secured seed investment led by Primavera Venture Partners, with additional backing from Taihill Venture, SternHill, and Amir Husain, founder of AI startup SparkCognition. Liu previously served as a research scientist at SparkCognition, which achieved a $1 billion valuation in 2022.
LeyLine employs 17 people across Seattle, Europe, and Asia, and continues to grow its influence in the AI and creative industries.
