Clout Kitchen, a Manila-based consumer AI startup, is making waves as the first Filipino company accepted into Andreessen Horowitz’s (a16z) renowned SPEEDRUN tech x games accelerator program. This achievement comes with a significant funding boost of US$1.2 million (PHP69 million).
The company is led by a team of young, serial entrepreneur Gen Z founders: Justin Gorriceta-Banusing (founder of AcadArena, a Series A scholastic gaming network across Southeast Asia and Latin America) and Gab Lopez (founder of MedHyve, recognized as the youngest venture-backed founder in the Philippines). Their experience and vision are backed by a team of talented Filipinos actively involved in the startup scene, including Brent Anonas, David Viray, Mesai Memoria, Pauline Baterna, Sheanne Cabantac, and Vincent Rivera.
Founded in 2024, Clout Kitchen specializes in creating interactive experiences powered by creators. They partner with top gaming and pop culture personalities to develop innovative ways for creators to engage with their audiences and fandoms. The startup has already secured backing from prominent Southeast Asian funds like Founders Launchpad, AppWorks, and Antler.
“At a16z, we believe in the power of technology and games to transform how we connect, create, and experience the world,” said Jack Soslow, Investment Partner at A16Z GAMES. “Clout Kitchen perfectly embodies this vision, and we’re excited to support their journey as they pioneer new ways for fans to connect with the creators and games they love.”
Clout Kitchen’s debut product, Backseat AI, is revolutionizing the League of Legends experience for gamers. Backseat AI offers an in-game “buddy” that provides real-time coaching and commentary, all delivered in the voice and persona of their favorite creators. Co-created with legendary gaming content creator Tyler “Tyler1” Steinkamp, who boasts over 20 million followers, Backseat AI has seen explosive growth, garnering over 35,000 signups in its first month.