The talent trend in the large model industry is undergoing a dramatic reversal. In February 2026, according to a report from Qichacha, citing Wecai News, Douba (a model under ByteDance), which was once known for its heavy spending to "scour" global AI talent, has now become the top target for top venture capital (VC) firms to acquire talent.

Core Shift: From "Talent Black Hole" to "Huangpu Military Academy"

Just a year ago, Douba was using its "TopSeed" program and highly attractive stock option grants to launch a "buyout" mode to attract top tech talents. However, by early 2026, the roles have reversed:

  • VC Deep Recruitment: Top institutions like Sequoia China and IDG Capital are precisely targeting core technical and product talents within Douba through specialized recruitment agencies such as Wanshidao (Beijing) Management Consulting.

  • Premium Incentives: To compete for these elite individuals with top-tier technical judgment and industry resources, VC firms are offering highly competitive conditions, inviting them to join portfolio companies or serve as technical partners.

Underlying Reasons: A "Hardcore" Shift in VC Investment Models

The root of this talent battle lies in the transformation of the capital market's fundamental logic:

  • Shift in Investment Focus: VC firms have fully shifted their investment focus to AI and hard technology. In these fields, talent is the most critical asset. Individuals with practical experience at major companies like Douba mean shorter trial-and-error cycles and stronger technical implementation capabilities.

  • Restart of Exit Channels: As exit channels in the primary market gradually recover and funds stabilize, emerging high-tech companies are expanding aggressively, creating a strong demand for "strengthening."

Industry Insight: AI Industry Enters "Deep Waters" Transformation

Qichacha analysis suggests that this evolution from "major company monopoly" to "capital-driven movement" reflects a deep transformation in the AI industry. Major companies are no longer the end destination for talent, and individuals with deep technical backgrounds are becoming key leverage points for capital to drive industrial upgrading.