Komi, a digital platform for artists, celebrities and online content creators to sell merchandise and engage with fans, has raised $12m (£9.2m) in a Series A funding round.
Komi partners with public figures to provide a white-labelled ecommerce platform and content hub to sell merchandise directly to fans and provide a single space containing social media posts and other digital content.
The startup also works with its clients to identify the best options for commercialisation options. Komi counts Lizzo, Jessica Alba, Elton John and Matthew McConaughey among its celebrity client list.
“The creator economy is on track to grow to $480bn by 2027, proving creators have huge commercial potential given the trust and distribution they have garnered from their fans,” said Lewis Crosbie, CEO and co-founder of Komi.
“However, creators and brands currently lack the digital infrastructure needed in order to maximise this opportunity, which is why Komi is focused on building around three core pillars we believe are the most important for creators to reach their commercial potential, namely: content, commerce and community.
The funding round was led by VC investors including RTP, Third Prime, Antler, E & Capital and Contour Ventures.
The round also included strategic investments from key industry players such as Sony Music Entertainment, Live Nation, Vicus and Laffitte Management Group.
“Komi has built a platform that is empowering artists, both established and aspiring, to maximise their ability to authentically monetise their fandom,” said Ron Laffitte, founder of Laffitte Management Group, which represents major artists including One Republic, Usher and Pharrell Williams.
“The new product releases will take Komi further towards being the one-stop-shop supporting artists and their teams.”
The latest round brings the total funding raised by Komi to $17m (£13.1m). The firm previously raised £4m in a seed round in December 2022.