Anyone who’s ever been locked out of a work device or struggled with a routine tech issue knows the frustration of waiting for IT support. Addressing this everyday challenge, a new startup called Console is redefining how workplace IT help desks operate using AI to automate repetitive tasks and cut down response times drastically.
Founded by Andrei Serban, former product lead at Rippling, Console was born out of firsthand experience. After Rippling acquired his earlier startup Fuzzbuzz in 2023, Serban recognized the immense manual workload IT teams shoulder daily such as resetting passwords, granting software access, and handling routine troubleshooting. This realization sparked the idea for Console, which he launched after leaving Rippling to empower IT professionals with smart automation.
A New Class of AI Co-Worker
Console positions itself not just as a tool, but as a collaborative AI teammate that integrates directly with Slack. Unlike other IT automation solutions that demand weeks or even months of deployment, Console can be up and running across an entire organization in a matter of days. That’s because it doesn’t replace the existing IT infrastructure but it enhances it.
“We’re not here to replace help desks. We’re here to elevate them,” Serban said.
Once deployed, employees can message Console directly on Slack. The AI assistant already knows the user’s device details, app permissions, and other relevant data—enabling it to independently resolve over 50% of queries. For more complex issues, it loops in human IT staff.
This quick, intelligent response system has already caught the attention of forward-thinking companies like Scale AI, Flock Safety, and Calendly, all of which are early adopters of Console.
Strong Investor Backing
Console’s innovative approach has attracted $6.2 million in seed funding from Thrive Capital, an investor known for backing AI giants like OpenAI, Cursor, and Scale AI.
Thrive partner Vince Hankes noted that the firm has long believed in AI’s potential to transform IT operations. While Console’s easy deployment might suggest it’s replaceable, Hankes sees rapid learning and deep integration as core strengths that will make the AI assistant irreplaceable over time.
While IT support is the current focus, Console has broader ambitions. Serban envisions the platform expanding into HR, finance, and legal support essentially becoming the first point of contact for employee queries across departments.
