New Orleans-based tech startup Civilized AI announced Monday that it closed a $2 million "seed" funding round led by Benson Capital, a local venture capital firm founded by Saints and Pelicans owner Gayle Benson. Other investors include Tulane University, Austin Capital Factory and members of the local angel investment community.

Launched last year by veteran entrepreneur Matt Wisdom, the "gov tech" company provides AI-powered online tools designed to improve city services by enhancing communications via chat, text, email, and other channels.

"People are counting on their cities to be smarter and run better," Wisdom said. "This investment focuses millions of dollars on bringing the world’s most advanced technology to that mission, with a special devotion to New Orleans, our home city."

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