Lucy Guo, co-founder of the AI startup Scale AI, is set to become the youngest self-made female billionaire, surpassing pop icon Taylor Swift. This milestone comes as Scale AI approaches a significant valuation of $25 billion, which will solidify Guo's financial status and influence in the tech industry.
Key Takeaways
- Lucy Guo, aged 30, will become the youngest self-made woman billionaire.
- Scale AI is valued at $25 billion, boosting Guo's stake to approximately $1.2 billion.
- Guo previously co-founded Scale AI but left the company in 2018 due to disagreements.
- She founded a new startup, Passes, aimed at helping creators monetise their fan relationships.
- Passes is currently facing legal challenges regarding content moderation.
The Rise of Lucy Guo
Lucy Guo's journey to billionaire status is remarkable. As a co-founder of Scale AI, a company that provides data-labeling services to enhance AI tools, she played a crucial role in its early development. The company has attracted significant attention from major tech firms and government agencies, positioning itself as a leader in the AI sector.
In recent developments, Scale AI is negotiating a tender offer that will allow employees to sell shares, which is expected to elevate the company's valuation to $25 billion. This valuation will result in Guo's stake being worth around $1.2 billion, marking a significant financial achievement for the young entrepreneur.
Transition from Scale AI to Passes
Despite her success at Scale AI, Guo's tenure was not without challenges. She left the company in 2018 after expressing concerns about its direction and her dissatisfaction with the work environment. Guo described her experience as unfulfilling, stating, "I just didn’t find it very fun or interesting."
Following her departure, Guo founded Passes in 2022, a platform designed to help creators and influencers monetise their relationships with fans. This venture reflects her commitment to empowering creators in the digital space, although it has not been without controversy.
Legal Challenges for Passes
In February 2025, Passes faced a class action lawsuit alleging that the platform allowed the sharing of inappropriate content, including child pornography. Guo has publicly denied these claims, asserting that they are unfounded and an attack on her company. She remains optimistic about overcoming these challenges, stating, "The truth always comes out. And I generally believe that karma is real."
Conclusion
Lucy Guo's ascent to becoming the youngest self-made woman billionaire is a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and resilience. As she navigates the complexities of the tech industry and addresses the challenges facing her new venture, her story continues to inspire many aspiring entrepreneurs. With her innovative approach and determination, Guo is poised to make a lasting impact in the world of technology and beyond.
