Singapore-based tech startup Atlas has raised $6 million in a seed funding round co-led by Accel and Stellaris.
The company plans to use the funds to expand its AI (artificial intelligence) platform for independent accounting firms, deepen its presence in North America, and scale go-to-market efforts in what it describes as a $150-billion global market.
The fundraise comes at a time when as the accounting profession faces mounting strain, particularly in the United States, where more than 300,000 professionals have exited the workforce since 2019, according to the company. At the same time, regulatory complexity and client demands continue to increase, leaving smaller independent accounting firms struggling to keep pace.
While large firms have poured billions into automation and AI, smaller players have largely relied on fragmented tools that often add to operational overhead. Atlas believes a more integrated, AI-native system can help level the playing field.
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Founded in 2025 by Arpit Maheshwari and Jagmal Singh, Atlas is building software that embeds AI across both client-facing and back-office workflows. Its platform follows a 'human-in-the-loop' approach, positioning AI as a junior accountant that handles execution tasks while professionals focus on oversight and client advisory.
Early deployments have shown productivity gains of more than five times on certain workflows, the company said.
The founders bring prior experience from India's startup ecosystem, including roles at companies such as CarDekho and PolicyBazaar, as well as exposure to global markets including Singapore and the US.
Investors say the opportunity lies not just in automation, but in also rethinking how accounting firms operate. Shekhar Kirani, Partner at Accel, describes accounting as "mission-critical" sector, which is at an inflection point driven by AI. Alok Goyal of Stellaris points to a structural talent shortage in North America that is accelerating demand for new operating models.
Atlas is building a network of partner firms across North America, combining software with operational infrastructure and growth support. Its model aims to help firms expand revenue and margins without adding headcount, a proposition that could prove attractive as hiring constraints persist.
The company joins a growing cohort of startups offering professional services with AI tools. Smaller accounting firms, which have been long overshadowed by the industry's larger incumbents, could become the biggest beneficiaries of this shift.
Feature image: Atlas founders Arpit Maheshwari and Jagmal Singh
Edited by Swetha Kannan