Sundial

AI · Data Analytics · Enterprise Software

Acquisition

Meta acquires AI data analytics startup Sundial from ex-employees

Sundial counted OpenAI as a client, leaving an open question about rival AI labs relying on Meta-owned analytics tools.

• Meta confirmed it acquired Sundial, an AI-powered data analytics startup, folding it into Meta's newly formed internal data analytics organization.
• Sundial was founded in 2021 by Julie Zhuo, Meta's former VP of product design, and Chandra Narayanan, former analytics chief at Sequoia Capital and Instagram.
• The platform turns natural-language questions into actionable insights via a chatbot plugin, letting teams analyze data without routing through a centralized data unit.
• Sundial raised $23 million total, including a $16 million Series A in July 2025 led by DJ Patil's GPV, with Sequoia Capital also backing the startup.
• Sundial's client roster included OpenAI, and it's unclear from the reporting how that relationship changes now that the startup's tech and staff sit inside Meta.
• Sundial will stop serving external customers once the deal closes, and co-founder Chandra Narayanan will lead data analytics tooling and agents under Meta's new 'DATA' unit.
• The deal shows how AI's surging demand for fast, reliable data insights is pushing major tech firms to acquire analytics talent rather than build it in-house.