Nous Research

Nous Research envisions a future where the pinnacle of intelligence is a shared resource, accessible to all rather than a select few. We exist to dismantle barriers in AI development through open-source collaboration and human-centric design, crafting language models and simulators that resonate with the diverse needs of the global community.

By pioneering technologies like the Hermes series and the Psyche Network, we are reconstructing the landscape of AI training and deployment, decentralizing power and empowering creators and innovators everywhere. Our work fosters an ecosystem where adaptability, personalization, and transparency are fundamental, ensuring AI advances enrich humanity collectively.

We've been tracking Nous Research since they emerged in 2023, and honestly, they're doing something pretty remarkable in the AI space. While everyone else is building walled gardens, these folks are committed to open-source development that actually makes powerful AI accessible to regular developers and researchers.

What Makes Them Different

The Hermes series is where Nous Research really shines. Their Hermes 3 model isn't just another language model — it's built for long-term conversations and complex roleplaying that feels genuinely human. We tested it ourselves, and the context retention over extended chats is impressive.

But here's the kicker: everything they build is open-source. In a world where the biggest AI companies are increasingly secretive, Nous Research is sharing their work with the community. That's not just noble — it's smart business in a space that desperately needs more transparency.

The Psyche Network Surprise

What caught our attention most was their Psyche Network. They're essentially turning unused hardware around the world into a distributed AI training network. Think of it like BitTorrent, but for training AI models.

This isn't just technically clever — it's democratizing who gets to participate in AI development. Small research teams and indie developers can suddenly access computational power that was previously reserved for tech giants with massive data centers.

Strong Financial Backing

With $70.2 million in funding (including a recent $65 million round), Nous Research isn't just a passion project. They've got serious financial backing to execute on their vision of decentralized AI.

We like that they're using this funding to double down on open-source development rather than pivoting to proprietary models for quicker profits. It shows real commitment to their mission.

Who Should Pay Attention

If you're a developer looking to integrate AI without vendor lock-in, Nous Research should be on your radar. Their models are particularly strong for applications requiring personality, long conversations, or specialized roleplaying scenarios.

Researchers and smaller AI companies will find their approach refreshing — finally, a company that's building infrastructure to include everyone in AI development, not just the biggest players with the deepest pockets.