Dashtoon Funded $5M to Expand Generative AI for Storytellers Worldwide

Storytellers

Dashtoon is a San Francisco, CA-based developer of a storytelling platform intended for curating stories across the globe and visualizing them into comics and graphic novels. The company’s platform leverages Generative AI technology to offer publishing services that release new episodes daily for readers, enabling storytellers worldwide to create illustrated content with unprecedented ease and speed.

Dashtoon was funded $5 million led by Matrix Partners India and Stellaris Venture Partners with participation from prominent angel investors. The recent funding round to further advance its technology and expand its services, empowering storytellers and content creators around the globe. The company’s cutting-edge AI platform is designed to assist writers, filmmakers, and artists in generating compelling narratives and content.

The company’s AI technology has gained popularity in the creative industries, providing a powerful tool for content creators seeking to streamline their creative process and overcome writer’s block. With this recent injection of capital, the company is well-positioned to push the boundaries of generative AI, opening up new possibilities for storytelling.

Aakash Kumar, the Matrix managing director, said they are thrilled to support Dashtoon’s mission to revolutionize the creative industry with their state-of-the-art generative AI technology. The global market for creative content is enormous, and Dashtoon’s tools will not only empower storytellers but also enhance the quality and diversity of content available to audiences.

Dashtoon’s generative AI platform utilizes deep learning algorithms and natural language processing to assist creators in generating original storylines, characters, and dialogue. Whether it’s a novelist working on a new novel, a screenwriter developing a screenplay, or a marketer crafting compelling narratives for a brand, Dashtoon aims to make the creative process more efficient and effective.

Sanidhya Narain, one of the innovators of Dashtoon, expressed their excitement for the future of generative AI in the creative world. Their team is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what generative AI can do for storytellers. This investment will help them expand their platform’s capabilities, making it easier than ever for creators to harness the power of AI in their work.

By: K. Tagura

Author statement:

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From Products to Solutions: Meeting Customer and Investor Needs

Products

In today’s fast-paced and dynamic business environment, the focus is shifting away from merely offering products to customers and investors. It’s no longer enough to create a fantastic widget or a cutting-edge gadget and expect the world to beat a path to your door. What customers and investors truly desire are solutions to their problems and challenges. This shift in perspective is crucial for businesses that want to thrive in the modern marketplace. In this article, we will delve into the idea that customers and investors don’t want products; they want solutions.

Understanding the Problem:

The first step in providing a solution is understanding the problem. This holds true for both customers and investors. Customers have specific needs, pain points, and challenges that they are looking to address. Investors, on the other hand, are seeking opportunities that provide solutions to broader market problems. To capture their attention, it’s essential for businesses to identify the problems their products or services solve.

Customer-Centric Approach:

Customers are drawn to companies that put their needs and experiences at the forefront. When businesses adopt a customer-centric approach, they are better equipped to offer solutions that cater to real-world problems. Instead of merely selling products, they create experiences that add value to the customer’s life. For example, the smartphone industry shifted from selling devices to providing solutions for communication, productivity, and entertainment.

The Role of Innovation:

Innovation is a driving force behind solutions that cater to both customers and investors. To create a product that truly addresses a problem, businesses must continuously innovate. A static product may solve a problem today, but it might become obsolete as new challenges emerge. Innovations in products, services, and processes ensure that a business remains a relevant problem solver in the long run.

Investors Seek Market Potential:

Investors are primarily interested in the market potential of a business. They invest in companies that have the capacity to provide solutions to a large number of customers. Businesses that can demonstrate how their products or services address significant market gaps or problems are more likely to attract investor interest. This highlights the importance of understanding market dynamics and positioning your offering as a solution.

Building Trust and Loyalty:

Customers and investors are more likely to engage with businesses they trust. When a business consistently provides solutions that meet or exceed expectations, it builds trust and loyalty. This trust extends to investors, who are more likely to invest in a company that has a proven track record of solving problems and delivering value to customers.

Adapting to Changing Needs:

Customer needs and market dynamics are constantly evolving. Businesses that focus on providing solutions, rather than products, are more adaptable to changing circumstances. They can pivot and adjust their offerings to continue addressing current challenges. In contrast, businesses that are product-centric may find it challenging to stay relevant in a shifting landscape.

Conclusion:

In the world of business, the paradigm is shifting from selling products to providing solutions. Customers and investors alike are looking for businesses that can address real-world problems, adapt to changing needs, and create value in their lives. By understanding the problems, adopting a customer-centric approach, embracing innovation, and building trust and loyalty, businesses can position themselves as solution providers rather than mere product sellers. This shift in perspective is crucial for long-term success in the ever-evolving marketplace. So, remember, customers and investors don’t want products. They want solutions.

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Upfort Funded $8M to Strengthen Cyber Resilience in the Digital Age

Cyber

Upfort is a San Francisco, CA-based cybersecurity software developer designed to offer comprehensive protection services. The company’s software provides phishing simulation, public Wi-Fi protection, inbox protection, password management, and cyber liability insurance, enabling clients to secure their business activities against modern cyber threats.

Upfort was funded $8 million led by SYN Ventures, with participation from Eniac Ventures, Fika Ventures, Altai Ventures, Chaos Ventures, Aquila Capital Partners, angel investors in Gaingels, and Cyber Mentor Fund. This investment advances Upfort’s goal to simplify how brokers and insurers sell insurance and shield their clients from cyber threats.

Upfort specializes in providing a comprehensive suite of services and tools to safeguard enterprises against a wide array of cyber threats, including malware, ransomware, data breaches, and other malicious activities that have become more sophisticated and prevalent in recent years.

The company’s flagship product, FortiGuard, combines artificial intelligence, machine learning, and behavioral analytics to detect and respond to threats in real-time. It allows businesses to predict and mitigate risks, helping them maintain business continuity in the face of unexpected cyber incidents.

They plan to allocate the funding towards expanding its research and development efforts, scaling its sales and marketing initiatives, and enhancing customer support. The company’s ultimate goal is to empower businesses of all sizes to protect their digital assets effectively and minimize the risks associated with cybersecurity breaches.

Upfort is well-positioned to help businesses navigate the complex and ever-changing threat landscape. As cyber threats continue to evolve, Upfort’s mission to provide proactive cybersecurity measures is a significant step towards securing the digital future of organizations worldwide.

By: K. Tagura

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Upland Funded $7M to Igniting Metaverse Growth and Spark Tradeability

Metaverse

Upland, a Palo Alto, CA-based and developer of an online game designed to offer nonfungible token-based virtual real estate trading built on blockchain. The metaverse company’s game allows players to buy, sell, trade, and develop virtual properties that are based on real-world addresses that ensure true ownership for the players, enabling users to keep virtual digital properties and encash their game winnings in fiat currency.

Upland was funded $7 million led by prominent investors EOS Network Ventures as a new investor, alongside participation from existing investors C3 Venture Capital, Animoca Brands, and angel investors.

The company intends to use the fund to help Upland expand its metaverse offerings and enhance its Spark token’s utility in the digital world.

Upland, a leading player in the emerging metaverse sector, offers a unique digital experience where users can buy, sell, and trade virtual properties using blockchain technology. The platform has gained significant popularity among users looking to invest in virtual real estate and participate in a dynamic online community.

The investment will be allocated towards several key areas:

Metaverse Expansion: Upland will use the funds to further develop its metaverse, adding new virtual locations and features to provide an even more immersive and engaging experience for users.

Spark Token Enhancements: Upland’s native digital currency, Spark, plays a crucial role in the platform’s economy. The funding will be used to enhance the functionality and tradeability of the Spark token, making it more versatile for users within the Upland metaverse.

Community Building: The company aims to invest in community-building efforts, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of users who contribute to the growth and evolution of the platform.

Upland has seen substantial growth in its user base since its launch, with virtual property purchases, sales, and in-game activities driving a vibrant virtual economy. With the additional funding, Upland is poised to take the next step in the evolution of the metaverse, bringing more utility and interactivity to the digital world.

By: K. Tagura

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Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Urban Sky Funded $9.75M to Develop Stratospheric Tech and Imaging

Imaging

Urban Sky is a Denver, CO-based developer of remote sensing vehicles intended to provide high-resolution earth observation data. The company’s vehicle leverages advances in component miniaturization to provide regular mapping changes above cities to imaging large, remote areas and assets, enabling clients to get precise satellite imagery by reducing the cost of high-resolution remote sensing and weather-related data.

Urban Sky was funded $9.75 million, led by New Legacy Ventures, Lerer Hippeau, and Lavrock Ventures, with participation from Catapult Ventures, Union Labs VC, DA Ventures (a Denver Angel investors Affiliate), and TenOneTen Ventures.

The company intends to use the funds to scale its commercial imaging operation, develop advanced stratospheric technology, and broaden its sensor portfolio.

Urban Sky’s breakthroughs in stratospheric technology offer exciting possibilities for industries such as agriculture, environmental monitoring, disaster management, and telecommunications. The company’s unique approach involves deploying high-altitude balloons equipped with state-of-the-art imaging equipment, providing a cost-effective and flexible means of collecting critical data.

CEO of Urban Sky, Andrew Antonio, expressed enthusiasm for the support the company has received. It underscores the importance of their work in pushing the boundaries of stratospheric technology and commercial imaging. They’re excited to have the backing of such esteemed investors who share their vision for a more connected and sustainable world.

Urban Sky’s approach offers a more cost-effective alternative to traditional satellite technology. High-altitude balloons can be launched quickly and at a fraction of the cost of orbital satellites, making data acquisition more accessible for businesses and organizations.

This new capital injection will enable Urban Sky to expand its fleet of stratospheric balloons, enhance imaging capabilities, and further its research and development efforts. It will also help the company broaden its reach and explore new industry partnership opportunities.

The successful funding round is a testament to the growing demand for innovative Earth observation and stratospheric technology solutions. As Urban Sky continues to break new ground in these fields, the future looks promising for the company and its mission to make the world more connected and informed.

By: K. Tagura

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Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Mastering the Franchise Game: Top Tips for Aspiring Franchisee

Franchisee

The allure of becoming a franchisee is undeniable. The opportunity to run a business with a proven concept, established brand, and ongoing support is enticing for many aspiring entrepreneurs. However, success as a franchisee isn’t guaranteed. To help you navigate the complex world of franchising and maximize your chances of success, we’ve compiled a list of pro tips to set you on the right path. Whether you’re considering opening your first franchise or expanding your existing portfolio, these insights will prove invaluable.

Do Your Homework

Before diving into the world of franchising, conduct thorough research. Take your time with the first opportunity that comes your way. Investigate various franchise models, industries, and brands to identify what aligns best with your skills, interests, and financial capabilities. Consider the franchise’s history, profitability, and support system. Attend franchise expos, read industry publications, and consult with existing franchisees to gather insights. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be to make an informed decision.

Understand the Financials

Franchising often involves a significant upfront investment, including franchise fees, equipment, and real estate. It would be best if you clearly understood your financial capacity and the potential return on investment. Remember to factor in ongoing costs like royalties, marketing fees, and operational expenses. Conduct a detailed financial analysis and consider hiring an accountant or financial advisor to help you navigate this aspect of your franchise journey.

Leverage Training and Support

One of the most significant advantages of franchising is the training and support provided by the franchisor. Utilize these resources to the fullest. Attend all training programs, seminars, and workshops offered by the franchise. Reach out to your franchisor whenever you face challenges or have questions. Remember, the franchisor’s success is tied to your success, so they are motivated to help you thrive.

Develop Strong Local Marketing

While the franchise brand has national recognition, local marketing efforts can make a difference. Develop a robust marketing plan tailored to your specific location. Use local social media, advertising, and community engagement strategies to connect with your target audience. This personal touch can help you stand out in a competitive market and build a loyal customer base.

Network with Other Franchisees

Networking with other franchisees can be a goldmine of knowledge and support. They’ve walked the same path and can provide valuable insights and advice. Join franchisee associations, attend franchisee conferences, and participate in online forums. Building connections with fellow franchisees can help you navigate challenges, share best practices, and foster a sense of camaraderie.

Adapt to Changing Market Conditions

The business world is dynamic, and markets can change quickly. Stay agile and be ready to adapt to new trends, technologies, and consumer preferences. Work closely with your franchisor to make necessary adjustments to your business model, and continuously evaluate your strategies to stay competitive.

Prioritize Customer Service

Outstanding customer service is a universal key to success in any business. Ensure your employees are well-trained, motivated, and committed to delivering excellent customer experiences. Happy customers become loyal patrons and brand advocates, leading to sustained growth.

Conclusion

Becoming a successful franchisee requires more than just capital and a willingness to work hard. It demands thorough research, financial insight, and a commitment to learning and growth. By following these pro tips, you can confidently embark on your franchise journey, knowing that you’ve set yourself up for success. The world of franchising is full of opportunities, and with the right approach, you can turn your dreams of business ownership into a rewarding reality.

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Real Estate: Right-sizing for Business Success

Real Estate

Choosing the right amount of real estate for your business is a crucial decision that can greatly impact your success. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand, finding the perfect space can be a complex task. It involves understanding your business’s current and future needs, budget considerations, and the ever-evolving dynamics of the real estate market. In this article, we’ll explore some essential steps to help you determine how much real estate your business needs.

Assess Your Current Needs

The first step in determining how much real estate your business needs is to assess your current requirements. Take a close look at your operations, staff, and workflow. Consider factors like the number of employees, equipment, and supplies needed to run your business effectively. Make a list of the essential amenities and features that your workspace must have to accommodate your day-to-day operations.

Plan for Growth

While it’s crucial to meet your current needs, don’t forget to plan for future growth. Your business should have room to expand and adapt as it evolves. Consider your growth projections for the next few years and whether your chosen real estate can accommodate this expansion. This will help you avoid the hassle and cost of relocating in the near future.

Budget Considerations

Your budget plays a significant role in determining how much real estate your business can afford. Determine how much you can comfortably allocate to your real estate expenses, including rent or mortgage, utilities, maintenance, and taxes. Keep in mind that leasing or buying a larger space may require a larger financial commitment, so strike a balance between your needs and budget.

Location Matters

The location of your business can significantly impact its success. Consider factors such as proximity to suppliers, customers, and competitors. Think about the accessibility of your location for both employees and clients, as well as the overall appeal of the area. A prime location might come with a higher price tag, so carefully weigh the benefits against the costs.

Seek Professional Guidance

Real estate decisions can be complex, especially if you’re not well-versed in the industry. Consider working with a real estate agent or consultant who specializes in commercial properties. They can provide valuable insights, help you navigate the market, and negotiate favorable terms on your behalf.

Flexibility Matters

In today’s rapidly changing business landscape, flexibility is key. Explore flexible office space solutions such as co-working spaces or short-term leases if your business has uncertain future space needs. These options allow you to adjust your real estate requirements more easily in response to changing circumstances.

Consider Environmental Factors

Environmental sustainability is an increasingly important consideration for businesses. Evaluate the energy efficiency and sustainability of potential properties. Green buildings not only reduce your carbon footprint but can also result in long-term cost savings through reduced energy bills and potential tax incentives.

Think About Employee Well-being

Your employees’ well-being is vital to your business’s success. Consider factors like the commute, nearby amenities, and the overall work environment when choosing your real estate. A comfortable, convenient workspace can boost employee morale and productivity.

Conclusion

Determining how much real estate your business needs is a complex process that requires careful consideration of your current and future requirements, budget constraints, location, and sustainability goals. By following these steps and seeking professional guidance, when necessary, you can make an informed decision that supports your business’s growth and success. Remember that real estate is not just a cost but an investment in the future of your business, so choose wisely.

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Class Companion Funded $4M for Teachers-Designed AI Platform

Teachers

Class Companion, a San Francisco, CA-based. Developed a social studies artificial intelligence assistant to help social studies teachers assess written assignments. The company offers features such as immediate personalized feedback, generates instant progress reports, focuses on lesson planning, and provides teachers with help related to assignments.


Class Companion was funded $14 million, led by Index Ventures, with participation from the OpenAI Startup Fund and notable angel investors, including renowned operator and advisor Gokul Rajaram, Managing Director of Otherwise Fund Terrence Rohan, and AI luminary Andrej Karpathy, founding Research Scientist at OpenAI and former Senior Director of AI at Tesla.


Funds will be used to improve the teacher experience and expand the team as teachers use their expertise to shape the AI to help students learn in new and exciting ways.


The platform’s primary focus is to offer a personalized and adaptable learning environment for students of all ages and backgrounds. Class Companion leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning to assist teachers with lesson planning, grading, and content curation tasks. The platform tailors its recommendations and suggestions by analyzing student performance data and behavior to help educators create more effective and engaging lessons.


Index Ventures, a leading investor in educational technology companies, believes that Class Companion can potentially disrupt the traditional education landscape. They are thrilled to support Class Companion’s mission to bring cutting-edge AI technology to the classroom.


Class Companion to accelerate its growth and reach a wider audience of educators and students. Key areas of development include:


Expansion of Educational Content: Class Companion plans to collaborate with educational content providers to offer a broader and more diverse range of materials for teachers and students.


Integration of New Features: The company intends to enhance its AI platform by introducing new features and functionalities, making it even more valuable for educators.


Scalability: Class Companion aims to expand its user base across various educational institutions, from K-12 schools to higher education and vocational training centers.


Research and Development: A significant portion of the funding will be allocated to ongoing research and development efforts, ensuring that the platform remains at the forefront of AI technology in education.


User Support and Training: Class Companion will invest in robust user support and training resources to ensure educators can make the most of the platform.


Class Companion is well-positioned to continue reshaping the education landscape, ushering in a new era of AI-powered teaching and learning. As technology plays a pivotal role in education, platforms like Class Companion are at the forefront of the transformation, promising a more efficient and engaging educational experience for students worldwide.

By: K. Tagura

Author statement:

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.

Safeguarding Your Business: Cybersecurity Essentials

Cybersecurity

In today’s digital age, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. With businesses relying heavily on technology and data, the potential risks and vulnerabilities are greater than ever. Cyberattacks can lead to data breaches, financial losses, damage to your reputation, and even legal consequences. To safeguard your business, it’s essential to proactively identify cyber risks and take steps to protect your valuable assets. In this article, we will outline some essential steps to help you do just that.

1. Conduct a Comprehensive Risk Assessment:

The first step in addressing cyber risks is to understand them. Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential vulnerabilities in your business’s IT infrastructure, applications, and data. This assessment should include:

  • Identifying valuable assets and data that require protection.
  • Analyzing potential threats and attack vectors.
  • Evaluating current security measures and their effectiveness.
  • Assessing the impact of a cyber incident on your business.

2. Develop a Robust Cybersecurity Policy:

A well-defined cybersecurity policy serves as a roadmap for your organization to follow. It should outline clear guidelines and best practices for all employees and stakeholders. Some key elements to include in your policy are:

  • Password policies and guidelines for secure authentication.
  • Data handling and encryption protocols.
  • Employee training and awareness programs.
  • Incident response and reporting procedures.
  • Regularly updated policies to adapt to evolving threats.

3. Invest in Cybersecurity Solutions:

Implementing the right cybersecurity tools and technologies is crucial. Consider:

  • Firewalls and intrusion detection systems.
  • Antivirus and anti-malware software.
  • Data encryption solutions.
  • Security information and event management (SIEM) systems.
  • Regularly update and patch all software and systems.

4. Educate and Train Your Team:

Your employees can either be your first line of defense or your weakest link. Provide cybersecurity training and awareness programs to educate them about potential risks and how to recognize and respond to threats. Regularly update employees on emerging threats and best practices to stay safe online.

5. Perform Regular Security Audits and Vulnerability Scans:

Cyber threats evolve constantly, and new vulnerabilities are discovered regularly. Regular security audits and vulnerability scans can help you identify and address weaknesses before they are exploited by malicious actors. Ensure that your IT team or a trusted third-party conducts these assessments regularly.

6. Establish an Incident Response Plan:

No matter how well you prepare, there is always a chance of a cyber incident occurring. Having a well-defined incident response plan in place is critical to minimizing damage and recovery time. Your plan should include:

  • Clear roles and responsibilities during an incident.
  • Steps for containing and mitigating the incident.
  • Procedures for notifying affected parties, including customers and authorities.
  • Post-incident analysis to improve future responses.

7. Secure Your Supply Chain:

Cybersecurity isn’t just about protecting your internal systems. It’s also essential to vet and secure your supply chain partners and vendors. Ensure that they have adequate cybersecurity measures in place, as vulnerabilities in their systems can affect your business as well.

8. Stay Informed and Adaptive:

Cyber threats are always evolving, so it’s crucial to stay informed about the latest developments in the cybersecurity landscape. Subscribe to threat intelligence feeds, attend industry conferences, and engage with the cybersecurity community to keep your defenses up-to-date.

In conclusion, identifying and mitigating cyber risks is an ongoing process that requires diligence and commitment. By following these essential steps, you can significantly enhance your business’s cybersecurity posture and better protect your valuable assets and data. Remember that cybersecurity is not a one-time effort but an ongoing commitment to safeguarding your business in an increasingly digital world.

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Nexusflow Funded $10.6 Million to Advance Generative AI for Security Tools

AI

Nexusflow, a Palo Alto, CA-based, Developer of AI-based conversational interface designed for security tools. The company’s platform attempts to synthesize data from various security knowledge sources and tap into existing security tools via APIs by leveraging open-source large language models that operate behind a customer’s firewall or in the cloud, enabling enterprises to control the security software and get metrics and insights using natural language commands.

Nexusflow was funded $10.6 million led by Point72 Ventures, with participation from Fusion Fund and other angel investors in Silicon Valley, to accelerate the development of its generative AI platform, expand its team of world-class researchers and engineers, and strengthen its market presence.

Nexusflow’s generative AI technology is designed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of security tools by leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms. By continuously learning from vast datasets of cyber threats and vulnerabilities, Nexusflow’s AI-powered solutions can autonomously adapt and evolve to combat emerging threats in real-time, helping organizations stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.

AI experts Professor Kurt Keutzer co-founder of Nexusflow expressed his enthusiasm for the funding and its potential impact. Their mission at Nexusflow is to make the digital world safer for everyone. This funding will allow them to further innovate and refine our generative AI solutions, enabling organizations to defend against ever-evolving cyber threats more effectively. They are excited to continue working alongside our partners and clients to create a more secure online environment.

Nexusflow’s generative AI technology has gained attention for its ability to adapt and evolve autonomously, reducing the need for manual intervention and lowering the risk of human error in cybersecurity operations. By harnessing the power of generative AI, organizations can significantly bolster their defenses against a wide range of cyber threats, from malware and phishing attacks to zero-day vulnerabilities.

With the additional funding in place, Nexusflow is poised to further advance the field of generative AI for security tools and contribute to a safer and more secure digital world. The company’s innovative solutions are expected to play a pivotal role in addressing the evolving cybersecurity threats that organizations face in an increasingly interconnected digital landscape.

By: K. Tagura

Author statement:

Who we are: Funded.com is a platform that is A+ BBB accredited over 10+ years. Access our network of Angel Investors, Venture Capital or Lenders. Let us professionally write your Business Plan.