Databricks acquires Row Zero to enhance data engineering capabilities

Databricks announced it has acquired Row Zero, a cloud‑spreadsheet startup, in a move that expands its portfolio of data tools. The deal closed on Tuesday, with the terms undisclosed. Row Zero had raised $20 million in Series B funding last year and built a platform that turns spreadsheets into SQL queries and data pipelines.

The acquisition is part of Databricks’ push to make data engineering easier for business users. Row Zero’s technology lets non‑technical people write code behind the scenes, a feature that fits with Databricks’ vision of a unified data platform. The move also signals a shift toward generative AI tools that can automate routine data tasks.

Databricks has already bought several companies this year, including the data‑visualisation firm Metaflow and the analytics platform Glean. The company has been investing heavily in AI after a 2025 funding round that raised $1.5 billion. Row Zero’s spreadsheet engine is seen as a low‑friction entry point for new users who may later adopt Databricks’ larger offerings.

After the purchase, Databricks plans to integrate Row Zero’s product into its Lakehouse platform, offering customers a seamless way to move from spreadsheets to production pipelines. Analysts say the acquisition could put pressure on competitors such as Snowflake and Snowplow, which are also expanding their AI‑powered data services. Databricks is expected to look for more startups that can plug into its ecosystem, potentially targeting companies that simplify data access for non‑technical teams.