The pet industry is expected to reach $358.62 billion by 2027. Industry experts expect a 6% compounded annual growth rate over the next five years, with the big driver behind that growth largely in technology. Offleash’d drew the attention of Google and early-stage angel investors looking to foster this community that engages people who share the same love for their pets and makes it easy for them to connect.
Los Angeles-based Offleash’d has closed its seed round at $700K to scale its community and expand operations. Lead investors include Bill and Juliana Wong, Florexis “Flex” and Cecille Velasco, Chris and Shelly Webber, and Garold and Julia Harford. The company plans for 2024 include further fostering growth in additional U.S. cities with new tech features, strategic partnerships, and live event series.
Partnership with Google
In late 2023, the company secured a partnership with Google and was invited into the Google Cloud for Startups Program. In 2024, the company has deepened its relationship with Google by expanding the partnership to scale the Offleash’d community through digital marketing efforts and live pet-friendly events.
AI-powered matchmaking for pet parents
Offleash’d was founded by Terry James. It is a SaaS platform that brings together like-minded individuals who are passionate about their furry family members via cutting-edge AI technology.
It provides valuable financial and technical support over the next two years to enhance technical capabilities and accelerate user downloads. It revolutionises the way people connect, build friendships, form relationships, and interact with each other like no other social community platform by understanding that being a pet lover is a unique experience filled with joy, laughter, and unconditional love.
Providing pet people with a way to find others who share a passion for their furry family members, whether a proud dog parent, a devoted cat enthusiast, or a lover of all creatures big and small, you will find your (pet) people on the platform.
It offers a singular comprehensive platform with the opportunity for brand integration and a marketplace that combines real-life experiences with digital discovery. This authentic community building also offers exciting events and one-of-a-kind experiences for pets and pet parents alike.
“We are incredibly grateful to all the new investors who have decided to join us on our mission to build an inclusive social community for pet people through Offleash’d,” said Terry E. James, CEO & Co-Founder of Offleash’d. “This $700,000 raised through this initial seed round will bring us one step closer to realising our vision of connecting pet parents everywhere. I am also thrilled about our partnership with Google and their support in helping us reach even more pet parents as we seek to grow our community. Additionally, we can’t wait for this summer as we dive into hosting and participating in numerous live pet-friendly events across California and Washington, building connections, bringing pet people together and spreading the joy of pet parenthood. With the support of our investors, partners, and the entire Offleash’d community, we are excited for the journey ahead as we continue to grow and strengthen our platform and connect as many pet people as possible.”
