Clout Kitchen’s Backseat AI for Creators League of Legends Fans

Clout Kitchen, a consumer AI startup with bases in Los Angeles and Manila, has successfully completed a $4.45 million seed funding round. This funding aims to enhance creator-powered interactive experiences in gaming and pop culture.

Funding Details
The funding round was co-led by a16z SPEEDRUN and Peak XV’s Surge, with additional participation from a variety of investors, including Taiwan’s AppWorks, Antler, Hustle Fund, Founders Launchpad, Orvel Ventures, and notable creators such as Gabby Dizon (YGG), Kun Gao (Crunchyroll), Voyboy, Jankos, and Perkz.

Company Vision and Leadership
Founded in 2024, Clout Kitchen is driven by a team of experienced leaders from the gaming and creator economy sectors. CEO Justin Banusing stated that the company aims to “grow the pie” and create value for fans, creators, and game developers. This vision stems from their personal experiences in the space, highlighting a commitment to giving back to the community.

Product Launch: Backseat AI
Clout Kitchen’s flagship product, Backseat AI, is an in-game “buddy” specifically designed for League of Legends. Co-developed with popular gaming content creator Tyler “Tyler1” Steinkamp, who boasts over 20 million followers, Backseat AI acts as a real-time guide for players. It offers advice on character selection, item purchases, and gameplay strategies using an AI voice replica of the creator. Since its early access launch in June, Backseat AI has garnered over 45,000 signups on its waitlist.

Business Model
Backseat AI subscriptions start at $4.99 monthly, with creators earning a share from each subscription. The roster of AI buddies is expanding, with popular streamer and cosplayer Emiru and professional player Jankos already included, and more top creators expected to join in the future.

Challenges for Creators
Marcel Feldkamp, Chief Business Officer of Clout Kitchen, emphasized the difficulties creators face in scaling their communities and businesses while maintaining engagement. The aim of Clout Kitchen is to alleviate these challenges by providing innovative solutions.

Future Plans
With the new funding, Clout Kitchen plans to scale its team, establish a U.S. office, and enhance its internal tech infrastructure to support future creator-powered gaming companion apps and experiences.

Investor Perspectives
Jamie Lin, Chairman & Partner at AppWorks, expressed excitement about supporting Clout Kitchen’s mission, praising the founding team’s exceptional qualities. Similarly, Jack Soslow, Investment Partner at a16z, highlighted the transformative potential of technology in reshaping community engagement and expressed enthusiasm for Clout Kitchen’s pioneering approach.

In summary, Clout Kitchen is poised to revolutionize the gaming and creator landscape through its innovative AI-powered solutions, starting with Backseat AI, aimed at enhancing the interaction between gamers and their favorite creators.

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