# Vals, backed by Andreessen Horowitz, aims to become the gold standard for AI benchmarking

Vals, a startup backed by venture firm Andreessen Horowitz, is positioning itself as the definitive standard for evaluating AI models. Benchmarking is increasingly contested as labs dispute which tests fairly measure model capability, giving a trusted neutral standard commercial and scientific value. The company's success would depend on winning adoption from AI developers and enterprises choosing which models to deploy.

**Importance:** 2/5

## Sources

### Technology
- [TechCrunch](https://techcrunch.com/2026/09/19/vals-backed-by-andreessen-horowitz-is-looking-to-become-the-gold-standard-for-ai-benchmarking/) — Sat, 19 Sep 2026 13:00:00 +0000