Fast Forward Labs

Fast Forward Labs is a machine learning and applied artificial intelligence research firm founded in 2014 by Hilary Mason and Micha Gorelick. Mason, a former chief scientist at Bitly and data scientist in residence at Accel, established the company to bridge the gap between academic research and practical business applications of emerging data technologies. The company was established in New York City.

The firm's business model centered on a subscription service and advisory roles. Clients would subscribe to receive regular research papers and working prototypes that detailed emerging technologies, their operational mechanics, and future potential. This model aimed to educate clients on topics like data science, machine learning, and algorithms, enabling them to identify and develop new product and business opportunities. Fast Forward Labs served a range of companies, from startups to large enterprises, across various industries.

In September 2017, the enterprise data cloud company Cloudera acquired Fast Forward Labs. The acquisition aimed to integrate Fast Forward Labs' expertise in applied AI and machine learning to help Cloudera's clients solve real-world business problems. Following the acquisition, the team became known as "Cloudera Fast Forward Labs," and Mason took on the role of Vice President of Research at Cloudera. The team continued to focus on practical research into new data science approaches and applying them to various industries. In June 2021, Cloudera itself entered an agreement to be acquired by private equity firms Clayton, Dubilier & Rice and KKR.

Keywords: machine intelligence research, applied artificial intelligence, data science advisory, machine learning prototypes, emerging technologies research, Hilary Mason, Cloudera acquisition, corporate research subscription, data strategy, algorithm analysis, AI business applications, technology trend analysis, data product development, natural language generation