Filipino Gen Z startup founders get into a16z SPEEDRUN Tech X games startup accelerator
Clout Kitchen, a consumer AI startup founded in Manila, is making history as the first Filipino startup to be accepted into Andreessen Horowitz’s (a16z) prestigious SPEEDRUN tech x games accelerator, securing US$1.2M (PHP69M) in funding.
The company is spearheaded by Gen Z co-founders and serial entrepreneurs Justin Gorriceta-Banusing (Founder of AcadArena, a Series A scholastic gaming network across SEA and LatAm) and Gab Lopez (Founder of MedHyve, recognized as the youngest venture-backed founder in the Philippines). Their proven track records and innovative vision are supported by a founding team of young Filipinos who have been actively involved in the Philippine startup scene, including Brent Anonas, David Viray, Mesai Memoria, Pauline Baterna, Sheanne Cabantac, and Vincent Rivera.
Launched in 2024, Clout Kitchen builds creator-powered interactive experiences, partnering with top gaming and pop culture creators to engage in innovative new ways with their audience and grow their fandom – anytime, anywhere. The startup was also previously backed by local Southeast Asian funds Founders Launchpad, AppWorks, and Antler.
“At a16z, we believe in the transformative power of technology and games to reshape how we connect, create, and experience the world. Clout Kitchen embodies this vision wholly, and we are thrilled to support their journey as they pioneer new ways for fans to engage with the creators and games they love,” Jack Soslow, Investment Partner, A16Z GAMES.
Clout Kitchen’s debut product, Backseat AI, is revolutionizing the way gamers experience League of Legends by offering an in-game “buddy” that delivers real-time coaching and commentary, all in the voice and persona of their favorite creators. Co-created with the legendary Tyler “Tyler1” Steinkamp—one of the most popular gaming content creators with over 20 million followers—Backseat AI has quickly gained traction, amassing over 35,000 signups in its first month alone.
ADVT.
This article is brought to you by SPEEDRUN.
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