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30 Mar IU Angel Network Supports Podcasting’s Answer to IMDb – Podchaser Poised to Continue Explosive Growth
Bloomington, Indiana— Podchaser, a podcast database co-founded by IU alumnus Cole Raven, recently closed a $4m funding round with participation from the IU Angel Network.
“The podcasting space was already a rapidly emerging market prior to the pandemic,” observed Jason Whitney, Executive Director of the IU Angel Network and Vice President of IU Ventures. “However, the immense growth demonstrated on both the consumer and marketing sides throughout the pandemic demonstrated an immense demand to potential investors. So, our network was very fortunate to be able to participate in this exciting capital raise.”
The round, led by Greycroft, also included Indianapolis venture studio High Alpha, which followed on its commitment as an early investor in Podchaser. High Alpha Managing Partner Scott Dorsey is an IU alumnus, as is Kyle Schlotman, Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer of Connetic Ventures, which also participated in the raise.
“We’ve been blown away by the support from the IU Angel Network and it’s really helped us take Podchaser to the next level,” said Podchaser co-founder and IU alumnus Cole Raven. “As we continue on our mission to power podcast discovery, it’s empowering to have such a strong team of investors in our corner.”
This round of funding will sustain Podchaser’s growth as a data resource and community. Reputed as the “IMDb for podcasts,” Podchaser has grown over the last four years to be a highly-valuable resource for podcasters, listeners, agencies, and brands. The insights provided by Podchaser include everything from creator and guest credits to listener demographics. Through crowdsourcing, the platform has developed features like lists, ratings, reviews, and activity feeds that enable connection between listeners, podcasters, and brands.”
As IU Ventures continues its mission to amplify the impact of the Indiana University alumni network through national outreach, the organization is gratified to see long-term relationships like Podchaser blossom into big opportunities for founders and investors alike.