AI Startup Clout Kitchen Raises $4.45M to Expand Game Companion Apps

Clout Kitchen, a consumer AI startup in Los Angeles and Manila, raised $4.45 million in a seed funding round. The round was co-led by a16z SPEEDRUN and Peak XV’s Surge, with additional support from AppWorks, Antler, Hustle Fund, Founders Launchpad, and Orvel Ventures. 

Prominent gaming creators such as Gabby Dizon from Yield Guild Games and Kun Gao from Crunchyroll, along with well-known esports figures Voyboy, Jankos, and Perkz, also participated.

The startup focuses on developing AI-powered experiences tailored to the gaming and pop culture sectors. Clout Kitchen aims to change how creators engage with their audiences by leveraging advanced technology to enhance fan interaction within the gaming community.

Clout Kitchen, founded in 2024, had the company’s first product, Backseat AI, offering League of Legends players real-time gameplay guidance powered by an AI version of their favorite gaming creators. Co-developed with Tyler “Tyler1” Steinkamp, a gaming content creator, Backseat AI advises players on character selection, item purchases, and in-game strategies, providing a personalized experience that enhances gameplay.

CEO Justin Gorriceta-Banusing is a serial entrepreneur who previously founded and scaled AcadArena, a campus gaming platform in Southeast Asia and Latin America. Meanwhile, Marcel Feldkamp, the company’s Chief Business Officer, has a professional League of Legends player and creator background. Feldkamp also founded Prime, a gaming talent agency, which later became part of United Talent Agency.

The success of Backseat AI is evident in its early reception, with over 45,000 users joining the waitlist since its early access launch in June 2024. Priced at $4.99 per month, each “buddy” on the platform allows players to benefit from direct, real-time advice while creators earn from every subscription. 

Clout Kitchen’s roster of creators has been steadily growing, with notable names like streamer Emiru and professional player Jankos joining the platform, and more prominent creators expected to be added soon.

With its recent $4.45 million seed funding, co-led by a16z SPEEDRUN and Peak XV’s Surge, Clout Kitchen is preparing to expand its operations. The company plans to use the funds to scale its team, establish a US office, and further develop its internal technology infrastructure. This will support the development of future creator-powered companion apps and enhance the existing Backseat AI platform.

Clout Kitchen is also focused on creating long-term value for its users, creators, and game developers. According to Justin, the company’s mission is to build products that engage fans and offer creators new ways to connect with their audience while adding value for developers. This funding round, along with support from key investors like AppWorks, Antler, and Hustle Fund, positions Clout Kitchen for continued growth and innovation in the AI-powered gaming space.

Investors have expressed strong support for Clout Kitchen’s vision and leadership. Jamie Lin, Chairman & Partner at AppWorks, emphasized his excitement in backing the team, highlighting the founders’ unique combination of passion, intelligence, and skill. “As a gamer and creator myself, I’m thrilled to support Justin and the Clout Kitchen team as they explore new frontiers for our community,” Lin said. 

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