As Crunchbase News AI notes, the rise of vertical AI has reshaped go-to-market strategies, with direct sales becoming viable even for mid-market deals. However, this shift may favor well-funded incumbents over startups, as the cost of high-touch sales could strain resources. The reliance on private equity and conferences for distribution, while effective, risks creating a fragmented ecosystem where access to capital and connections dictates success. The real test will be whether these strategies can scale beyond niche industries without compromising efficiency.