William Passo Research by SuperAGI

Professional Overview

William Passo is a co-founder and former CEO of Rain AI, a San Francisco-based semiconductor startup focused on developing cost- and energy-efficient AI hardware inspired by neuromorphic computing principles. Rain AI’s technology aims to deliver AI chips modeled after the human brain to provide low-power, high-performance AI processing. Passo's prominent role as CEO positioned him at the helm during key fundraising and strategic partnership phases, including involvement in securing major investments and collaborations.

Career at Rain AI

Founder and CEO at Rain AI (until mid-2025): William Passo led the company through multiple crucial milestones, including financing efforts (notably a $25 million Series A round and subsequent attempts at a $150 million Series B funding round), product conceptualization, and high-profile partnerships.

During his tenure, Rain AI secured deals such as a letter of intent by OpenAI to purchase $51 million worth of AI chips, underscoring the company’s technological credibility and market relevance.

Noted for public statements emphasizing Rain AI’s mission to create energy-efficient, scalable AI hardware critical to advancing artificial intelligence technology.

In May 2025, Passo quietly stepped down as CEO for personal reasons, succeeded by co-founder Jack Kendall, as the company faced financial challenges and began exploring a potential sale following the collapse of its $150 million funding round.

Company Context and Market Position

Rain AI, backed by high-profile investors including Sam Altman, is strategically positioned in the competitive AI hardware semiconductor market. Despite innovative neuromorphic chip designs and existing partnerships, the company experienced significant financial headwinds in early 2025, raising concerns about its sustainability and capital structure. The company emphasizes in-memory compute technology as a differentiator in reducing AI hardware energy consumption.

Rain AI earned notification as one of the “2024 Startups to Watch” by notable Silicon Valley business publications, reflecting industry recognition for its innovative hardware approach. The startup’s recruitment of former Apple executives to lead hardware engineering highlights deliberate efforts to build technical excellence and accelerate product development.

Educational Background

Harvard Law School (2013–2016): Awarded honors including Board of Student Advisors (BSA).

Undergraduate degree (2007–2011) from Duke University, graduated summa cum laude with distinctions including the Paul Edwin Harner Award and Phi Beta Kappa honor society.

Passo's educational background combines rigorous legal training with exemplary academic achievements, suggesting strong analytical, leadership, and governance capabilities complementing his entrepreneurial role.

Professional Network and Influence

Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, a central hub for technology startups and venture capital.

Maintains an active LinkedIn network with over 3,100 followers and 500+ professional connections, signaling a solid presence in the AI and tech community.

Public LinkedIn activity indicates engagement with AI industry trends, talent acquisition (notably leading recruiting efforts at Rain AI post-Instacart tenure), and collaboration announcements, underlining his leadership in company growth and strategic talent management.

Relevant Public Engagement

Quoted in media and industry articles positioning Rain AI’s chip technology as critical for the future AI ecosystem.

Posted public welcomes to new high-profile hires (e.g., former Apple silicon engineer Jean-Didier Allegrucci as Head of Hardware Engineering), highlighting team-building and technical leadership focus.

Demonstrated thought leadership via active commentary on AI hardware misconceptions and market dynamics related to neuromorphic computing technology.

Key Insights for Business Context

Leadership Transition: Passo’s recent departure as CEO amid capital challenges may indicate shifts in company strategy or operational focus.

Financial Sustainability: Rain AI’s funding difficulties and exploration of a sale suggest ongoing financial uncertainties despite promising technology.

Technological Differentiation: Rain AI’s neuromorphic, in-memory computing approach positions it as a potential disruptor in AI hardware efficiency, relevant to clients prioritizing low-power, scalable AI solutions.

Network and Influence: Passo’s strong network and educational pedigree offer valuable channels for strategic partnerships and recruiting capabilities.