Clout Kitchen, a Manila-based consumer AI startup focused on creator-driven interactive experiences in gaming and pop culture, has raised $4.45 million in seed funding.
Investors
The round was co-led by a16z SPEEDRUN and Peak XV’s Surge, with additional backing from AppWorks, Antler, Hustle Fund, Founders Launchpad, Orvel Ventures, and notable gaming figures like Gabby Dizon (YGG), Kun Gao (Crunchyroll), and pro gamers Voyboy, Jankos, and Perkz.
SPEEDRUN is a16z GAMES' early-stage accelerator for startups at the intersection of tech and gaming.
Peak XV’s Surge is a seed platform for company builders. Launched in 2019, Surge combines up to $3 million in capital with a learning program and company-building support.
Clout Kitchen Use of Funds
With the funding, Clout Kitchen plans to grow its team, expand its presence in the U.S., and develop its tech infrastructure to support future projects.
About Clout Kitchen
Founded in 2024 by Justin Gorriceta-Banusing and Marcel Feldkamp, Clout Kitchen creates AI-powered, creator-led gaming experiences that aim to deepen fan engagement. Its flagship product, Backseat AI, is an in-game companion for League of Legends, co-built with popular content creator Tyler "Tyler1" Steinkamp. This AI tool offers players real-time tips and strategies, utilizing voice clones of their favorite creators. Since its early access launch in June 2024, Backseat AI has already attracted 45,000 waitlist signups. Clout Kitchen operates out of Los Angeles and the Philippines.
Funding Details
Company: Clout Kitchen
Raised: $4.45M
Round: Seed Round
Funding Date: October 2024
Lead Investors: a16z SPEEDRUN, Peak XV’s Surge
Additional Investors: AppWorks, Antler, Hustle Fund, Founders Launchpad, Orvel Ventures, Gabby Dizon, Kun Gao, Voyboy, Jankos, Perkz
Company Website: https://www.cloutkitchen.net/
Software Category: AI Gaming Companion
Source: ehttps://e27.co/clout-kitchen-lands-us4-45m-funding-to-expand-its-ai-game-companion-backseat-ai-20241003/