Gemist is a direct-to-consumer jewelry company that blends online design tools with a home try-and-buy model to enable customers to customize rings and other pieces. Through its online platform, users can discover, design, and preview customized jewelry and receive replicas before purchase. The company also provides technology solutions for jewelry customization, stacking, and virtual try-on to enhance e-commerce experiences, helping brands and retailers engage customers and increase sales. By focusing on personalized buying experiences and seamless design-to-purchase workflows, Gemist aims to simplify jewelry customization and improve conversion.
WithOthers
Pre Seed Round in 2022
WithOthers is a music impact events platform founded in 2021 and headquartered in Los Angeles, California. The company specializes in connecting artists and fans through activism and music, facilitating the creation of local events that foster community engagement. WithOthers provides tools and support for live creators to establish networks with local event organizers, enhancing the overall event experience. Its innovative token-based ticketing technology simplifies the process for event creators, making shows more meaningful, profitable, and engaging for audiences. By empowering organizations across various sectors, WithOthers helps mobilize communities to support their missions through impactful events.
Wize
Venture Round in 2021
Wize is an online education platform designed for university students across Canada, providing instant access to high-quality exam preparation courses. The platform offers a variety of resources, including course-specific video tutorials, practice problems, and expert tutoring, allowing students to enhance their understanding of course material efficiently. By delivering content through bite-sized videos and comprehensive notes, Wize enables students to study at their own pace, anytime and anywhere. This innovative approach not only reduces the stress of exam preparation but also makes learning more accessible and cost-effective compared to traditional resources. Whether students need to catch up, get ahead, or explore challenging concepts, Wize equips them with the necessary tools to achieve their academic goals.
Trust & Will
Series B in 2020
Trust & Will is an online platform that simplifies estate planning by providing attorney-approved, legally valid documents tailored to individual state guidelines. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in San Diego, California, the company has assisted hundreds of thousands of members in creating estate plans or settling the estates of their loved ones. The platform offers an easy, fast, and secure way to establish wills, trusts, and other legal documents, allowing clients to save on legal fees while ensuring their wishes are properly documented. Trust & Will employs bank-level encryption to protect customer data and adheres to high security standards, including SOC 2 and HIPAA compliance. The company is recognized as the official estate planning benefit provider for AARP members and collaborates with various leading financial institutions to promote its mission of helping families leave their legacies.
Zero Grocery
Seed Round in 2020
Zero Grocery Inc., established in 2019 and headquartered in Redwood City, California, operates as an online retailer specializing in grocery products. The company offers a subscription-based delivery service with a focus on sustainability. All goods are delivered in reusable packaging to eliminate single-use plastics from the food system, aligning with their mission to promote zero-waste practices.
Gemist
Pre Seed Round in 2020
Gemist is a direct-to-consumer jewelry company that blends online design tools with a home try-and-buy model to enable customers to customize rings and other pieces. Through its online platform, users can discover, design, and preview customized jewelry and receive replicas before purchase. The company also provides technology solutions for jewelry customization, stacking, and virtual try-on to enhance e-commerce experiences, helping brands and retailers engage customers and increase sales. By focusing on personalized buying experiences and seamless design-to-purchase workflows, Gemist aims to simplify jewelry customization and improve conversion.
Revl Inc. is a company based in San Francisco, California, that specializes in manufacturing and selling advanced action cameras. Founded in 2011, the company focuses on providing a unique video experience by incorporating artificial intelligence into its 4K smart action cameras. These devices are designed to automate the video process, allowing users to capture, edit, and share high-quality videos in real-time. By merging innovative software and hardware, Revl aims to enhance the way consumers document and share their adventures, positioning itself as a leader in the video souvenirs market.
XClaim Inc., founded in 2018 and based in Los Angeles, California, operates an electronic platform designed to streamline the process of managing bankruptcy claims. The company's digital marketplace connects distressed debt investors with various parties holding unpaid receivables from bankrupt companies, including vendors, suppliers, and landlords. By facilitating e-trading of this debt, XClaim aims to increase liquidity in an otherwise illiquid market, providing tools for portfolio tracking, out-of-court settlement opportunities, and risk mitigation. The platform enhances efficiency by centralizing access to buyer competition and simplifying the negotiation and settlement processes.
Trust & Will
Series A in 2019
Trust & Will is an online platform that simplifies estate planning by providing attorney-approved, legally valid documents tailored to individual state guidelines. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in San Diego, California, the company has assisted hundreds of thousands of members in creating estate plans or settling the estates of their loved ones. The platform offers an easy, fast, and secure way to establish wills, trusts, and other legal documents, allowing clients to save on legal fees while ensuring their wishes are properly documented. Trust & Will employs bank-level encryption to protect customer data and adheres to high security standards, including SOC 2 and HIPAA compliance. The company is recognized as the official estate planning benefit provider for AARP members and collaborates with various leading financial institutions to promote its mission of helping families leave their legacies.
Balloon
Seed Round in 2019
Balloon removes bias from group work and decision-making - across teams, both internal and external. Its platform levels the playing field and makes it possible to anonymously surface and prioritize information, feedback, and insights that companies can't get any other way.
Boulevard
Series A in 2019
Boulevard Labs, Inc. specializes in developing a comprehensive management software platform tailored for salons, spas, and other appointment-based businesses. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in West Hollywood, California, Boulevard offers a cloud-based dashboard that provides real-time updates and various applications for staff and receptionists. The platform enhances operational efficiency by enabling staff to manage schedules, communicate with clients, book appointments, and process payments. Additionally, it features tools for client self-scheduling, customer relationship management, marketing, and custom reporting, addressing the unique needs of the beauty and wellness industry. By integrating these functionalities, Boulevard aims to streamline operations, boost sales, and enhance customer experiences in an industry often lacking advanced technological solutions.
Tapcart
Seed Round in 2019
Tapcart Inc. is a mobile commerce software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform that allows e-commerce brands to design, launch, and manage mobile apps without the need for coding or technical expertise. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Tapcart integrates directly with Shopify, enabling numerous brands, including Fashion Nova and Chubbies, to develop native mobile applications for enhanced shopping experiences. The platform offers a range of features such as marketing automation, customer reviews, and analytics, as well as e-commerce integrations, allowing retailers to engage customers effectively through push notifications and streamline their mobile presence.
Trust & Will
Seed Round in 2019
Trust & Will is an online platform that simplifies estate planning by providing attorney-approved, legally valid documents tailored to individual state guidelines. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in San Diego, California, the company has assisted hundreds of thousands of members in creating estate plans or settling the estates of their loved ones. The platform offers an easy, fast, and secure way to establish wills, trusts, and other legal documents, allowing clients to save on legal fees while ensuring their wishes are properly documented. Trust & Will employs bank-level encryption to protect customer data and adheres to high security standards, including SOC 2 and HIPAA compliance. The company is recognized as the official estate planning benefit provider for AARP members and collaborates with various leading financial institutions to promote its mission of helping families leave their legacies.
Lensabl
Seed Round in 2018
Lensabl, Inc. is an online retailer specializing in the manufacture and sale of prescription lenses for eyeglasses and sunglasses. Founded in 2015 by Andy Bilinsky and Mike Rahimzadeh, the company is based in Culver City, California. Lensabl offers a wide range of optical products, including single vision, progressive, mirror-coated, and polarized lenses, as well as options for distance and reading. Their marketplace allows consumers to easily purchase high-quality lenses and frames from the comfort of their homes, emphasizing convenience and affordability. With a focus on providing various lens types, including clear, tinted, and transitional options, Lensabl aims to meet diverse customer needs in the eyewear market.
Catalog
Seed Round in 2018
Catalog is a Los Angeles-based company that specializes in producing original visual content for online brands. The platform enables brands to source high-quality photos and videos by allowing them to specify the quantity, style, and type of shots that align with their brand identity. Catalog handles the entire content creation process by hiring photographers, stylists, models, and editors, and managing logistics such as location, props, and legal compliance. By automating this process, the company provides a streamlined solution for businesses of all sizes to effectively tell their stories through custom visual content.
Citruslabs
Seed Round in 2018
Citruslabs specializes in streamlining clinical trials, supporting research organizations of all sizes. Its platform facilitates patient recruitment and retention by offering a network of health applications that engage users with educational content on physical exercises, nutrition, games, and clinical trial information. This data is then shared with healthcare clients, helping them identify and connect with suitable trial candidates.
Gimme Radio
Seed Round in 2018
Gimme Radio, Inc. is a digital music platform founded in 2017 and based in San Francisco, California, that caters specifically to metal music enthusiasts. It offers a unique online radio station featuring a curated selection of tracks, hand-picked by musicians, music journalists, and industry tastemakers. The platform also includes Gimme Live, which allows listeners to interact with DJs through online chat. In addition to streaming, Gimme Radio sells music-related merchandise such as CDs, tapes, t-shirts, posters, and record players, creating a comprehensive community experience for passionate music fans. By focusing on underserved genres, Gimme Radio positions itself as a dedicated destination for fans who seek a more specialized music experience.
Donut Media
Seed Round in 2017
Donut Media Inc. is a digital media company based in Los Angeles, California, specializing in cross-platform video content for automotive and motorsports enthusiasts. Founded in 2015, the company utilizes proprietary technology and a curated network of influencers to create and distribute engaging automotive content across various social channels. Donut Media has developed an innovative, data-driven approach to producing highly shareable video material, catering to the interests of car enthusiasts. Additionally, the company offers a merchandise range that includes clothing and accessories, allowing customers to explore and engage with the latest trends and happenings in the automotive world.
Retina AI
Seed Round in 2017
Retina AI, Inc., founded in 2017 and based in Santa Monica, California, specializes in harnessing artificial intelligence to organize, monitor, and provide actionable insights from client data. The company employs advanced algorithms to analyze existing data, enabling businesses to identify their highest-value customers. By delivering targeted insights, Retina AI helps clients effectively reach and engage similar customer profiles, enhancing their marketing strategies and overall business performance.
Tapcart
Convertible Note in 2017
Tapcart Inc. is a mobile commerce software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform that allows e-commerce brands to design, launch, and manage mobile apps without the need for coding or technical expertise. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Tapcart integrates directly with Shopify, enabling numerous brands, including Fashion Nova and Chubbies, to develop native mobile applications for enhanced shopping experiences. The platform offers a range of features such as marketing automation, customer reviews, and analytics, as well as e-commerce integrations, allowing retailers to engage customers effectively through push notifications and streamline their mobile presence.
Lensabl
Pre Seed Round in 2017
Lensabl, Inc. is an online retailer specializing in the manufacture and sale of prescription lenses for eyeglasses and sunglasses. Founded in 2015 by Andy Bilinsky and Mike Rahimzadeh, the company is based in Culver City, California. Lensabl offers a wide range of optical products, including single vision, progressive, mirror-coated, and polarized lenses, as well as options for distance and reading. Their marketplace allows consumers to easily purchase high-quality lenses and frames from the comfort of their homes, emphasizing convenience and affordability. With a focus on providing various lens types, including clear, tinted, and transitional options, Lensabl aims to meet diverse customer needs in the eyewear market.
Wavedash Games
Series A in 2017
Wavedash Games, Inc. is an independent game developer based in Oakland, California, established in 2015. The company focuses on creating innovative platform fighter games, aiming to define new genres within this gaming category. Wavedash Games is comprised of a team of experienced professionals from various leading companies in the gaming industry, including Riot, Blizzard, Bioware, Kixeye, Sony, and Twitch. This diverse background allows the company to blend expert game development skills with a strong commitment to community engagement and grassroots passion.
Purple Squirrel
Seed Round in 2017
Purple Squirrel, Inc. is a community-driven hiring marketplace founded in 2014 and based in San Francisco, California. The company operates an online networking platform that connects job seekers directly with employees at top companies. Its services enhance the job search process by offering personalized interview advice, access to unlisted job opportunities, and the chance to earn employee referrals. By facilitating these connections, Purple Squirrel improves job seekers' chances of securing employment while allowing employees to mentor candidates and discover talent.
Scoutbound
Seed Round in 2017
Scoutbound is a human resource advisory firm based in Venice Beach, California, established in 2018. The company focuses on helping small to mid-sized recruiting firms grow their business by automating the client acquisition process. Utilizing artificial intelligence and automation, Scoutbound monitors hiring signals such as new job postings and funding events to identify potential placement opportunities. Its AI engine matches these opportunities with the specific criteria of recruiters, locating the contact information of relevant hiring managers. The platform then automates personalized outreach, enabling recruiters to engage prospects directly from their email accounts. By streamlining business development efforts, Scoutbound aims to increase leads significantly while eliminating the majority of manual tasks involved in client sourcing. Through these innovations, Scoutbound helps smaller firms compete more effectively against larger industry players.
Revl Inc. is a company based in San Francisco, California, that specializes in manufacturing and selling advanced action cameras. Founded in 2011, the company focuses on providing a unique video experience by incorporating artificial intelligence into its 4K smart action cameras. These devices are designed to automate the video process, allowing users to capture, edit, and share high-quality videos in real-time. By merging innovative software and hardware, Revl aims to enhance the way consumers document and share their adventures, positioning itself as a leader in the video souvenirs market.
Boulevard
Seed Round in 2017
Boulevard Labs, Inc. specializes in developing a comprehensive management software platform tailored for salons, spas, and other appointment-based businesses. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in West Hollywood, California, Boulevard offers a cloud-based dashboard that provides real-time updates and various applications for staff and receptionists. The platform enhances operational efficiency by enabling staff to manage schedules, communicate with clients, book appointments, and process payments. Additionally, it features tools for client self-scheduling, customer relationship management, marketing, and custom reporting, addressing the unique needs of the beauty and wellness industry. By integrating these functionalities, Boulevard aims to streamline operations, boost sales, and enhance customer experiences in an industry often lacking advanced technological solutions.
LeaseLock
Seed Round in 2016
LeaseLock Inc. is an insurance technology company based in Marina Del Rey, California, founded in 2013. It specializes in providing lease guarantor services and replacing traditional security deposits with insurance, streamlining the leasing process for renters and property owners. By leveraging artificial intelligence, LeaseLock's platform facilitates instant lease approvals, eliminating the need for cosigners and significantly reducing vacancy rates. The service is integrated within online leasing systems, enhancing user experience and leading to higher adoption rates among property operators. With over $1 billion in leases insured and a coverage rating of A (Excellent) by A.M. Best, LeaseLock aims to optimize the leasing process while minimizing financial risks and improving overall rental transactions. Its strategic partnership with QBE Holdings further supports its mission to innovate the rental landscape.
Wisecrack
Venture Round in 2016
Wisecrack, Inc. is a film and video production company based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2014. It specializes in creating engaging web series and podcasts, including popular titles such as Thug Notes, Earthling Cinema, and 8-Bit Philosophy. The company is comprised of a diverse group of academics, comedians, and filmmakers who explore various topics in innovative and entertaining ways. In addition to its media productions, Wisecrack also offers themed merchandise online, appealing to fans of its content. As of 2019, Wisecrack operates as a subsidiary of Omnia Media, Inc.
Markett
Seed Round in 2016
Markett, Inc. is a marketing and branding agency that provides a platform for users to earn income by promoting their favorite brands. Established in 2016 and headquartered in Venice, California, the company connects high-growth businesses with individuals and marketing teams, facilitating customer acquisition through authentic content and unique promotion codes. By leveraging a geocentric sales force, Markett empowers young professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives to monetize their marketing efforts on their own terms, thereby enhancing brand visibility and lead generation for its clients.
Grace, established in 2015 and headquartered in California, specializes in comprehensive end-of-life services. The company offers a wide range of funeral arrangements, including cremation, burial, and related services such as transportation, permits, preparation, caskets, urns, and grave markers. Additionally, Grace provides immediate care services like digital death notifications, venue bookings, flower orders, and photo restoration, along with ongoing care services for post-death tasks like account closure, mail forwarding, grief counseling, and pet care.
Toga is a developer of a social calendar application that assists college students in discovering events, news, and media relevant to their campuses. The application consolidates all social events into a single feed, enabling students to easily track and engage with happenings at their own school as well as explore activities at other campuses. By providing a centralized platform for campus-related information, Toga enhances the social experience for students and fosters a sense of community within the college environment.
Wave focuses on interactive virtual experiences with a mission to help artists make money at the intersection of gaming and entertainment. Wave’s technology enables musicians to create lifelike avatars of themselves that can “perform” their music on a virtual stage. Most of these virtual shows take place either on the company’s YouTube channel, but Wave’s apps let users tune in on gaming consoles, phones or even the Oculus Rift VR headset. While watching a Wave, viewers can log in to comment in a chat function and give live feedback to the avatar performers.
Event Farm
Series A in 2016
Event Farm, Inc. is an experiential marketing platform based in Santa Monica, California, specializing in event management solutions. Founded in 2003, the company offers a comprehensive mobile application that facilitates the customization of invitations, ticket sales, and guest check-in processes. Event Farm's technology supports event professionals by providing tools for managing every phase of an event, from initial invitations and RSVPs to on-site check-in and post-event follow-up. The platform enhances brand engagement and audience interaction through tailored digital experiences and real-time reporting, allowing clients to effectively measure the return on investment of their events. As of 2019, Event Farm operates as a subsidiary of MemberSuite, Inc.
Community
Seed Round in 2015
Community is a social engagement platform that enables seamless two-way communication between influencers and their audiences. By providing a unique 10-digit phone number, it connects businesses, brands, public figures, and creators directly with their consumers. The platform is designed to facilitate interaction without the negative aspects often associated with social media, such as conflicting commercial interests and data privacy concerns. Community’s approach allows influencers from various sectors, including global brands, sports teams, and artists, to engage with their audiences on a personal level, fostering genuine connections and enhancing overall engagement.
Tilofy, Inc. is a company based in Los Angeles, California, with additional offices in San Francisco and Playa Vista. Founded in 2013, Tilofy specializes in developing an automated trend forecasting platform that analyzes unstructured data to predict emerging trends before they become mainstream. The company's proprietary technology processes factual data in real-time, identifying velocity swings and anomalies. This enables businesses to uncover new opportunities, access new markets, and innovate their product offerings effectively.