Summary:
Empromptu raised $2M in pre-seed funding led by Precursor Ventures to help businesses build AI applications without coding
The platform uses an AI chatbot interface where users describe what they want, and the AI builds it automatically
Founder Shanea Leven emphasizes enterprise-grade fundamentals like security, compliance, and reliability
Empromptu distinguishes itself from "vibe coding" platforms by focusing on production-ready software with governance features
The company targets regulated industries and complex applications, helping non-technical founders leverage AI
From Vision to Reality: Empromptu's AI-Powered App Builder
Shanea Leven learned two crucial lessons while building her first company, CodeSee. First, understanding the difference between what businesses actually need versus what merely sounds visionary. Second, the fundamentals always apply—even with groundbreaking technologies like AI.
"Security, compliance, reliability, quality—those things don't just go away for enterprise applications," Leven emphasized.
After CodeSee's acquisition in 2024, Leven partnered with AI researcher Sean Robinson to create something transformative. In October, they launched Empromptu, an AI service designed to help businesses build AI applications without requiring technical expertise.
How Empromptu Works
Empromptu claims users simply need to describe what they want to the platform's AI chatbot—whether it's a new classification app, generative recommendation system, or custom HTML/JavaScript application—and the AI will build it automatically. The platform also provides LLM tools for fine-tuning results and allows companies to integrate AI features into their existing codebases.
Beyond Vibe Coding
While some might compare Empromptu to "vibe coding" platforms like Replit and Lovable, Leven draws a clear distinction.
"Vibe coding is excellent for quick experiments, but Empromptu is what turns those experiments into real software," she explained. "Empromptu turns ideas into production features with built-in evaluation, governance, and self-improvement. You ship to real customers, with real data and complete control. If vibe coding is the brainstorm, Empromptu is the build."
Funding and Future Plans
On Tuesday, the company announced it had raised $2 million in pre-seed funding led by Precursor Ventures, with participation from Zeal Capital, Alumni Ventures, FoundersEdge, and South Loop.
Leven revealed the fresh capital will be used for hiring staff and developing new proprietary technology. The company also announced three new features, including the ability to create custom data models and implement infinite memory capabilities.
Target Market and Vision
Empromptu aims to serve businesses operating in regulated industries or "deeply complex" areas that involve data capture and application development—such as software for hotel management systems.
Leven's ultimate vision is empowering founders to transform their businesses without needing to master technical skills to leverage the AI revolution.
"It's just like any other skill," Leven said. "And the beauty of this skill is that AI can help you learn it along the way."
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