Posted by Bangalore: Lunchclub, the AI-powered professional networking platform launched in India. The platform uses AI and machine learning algorithms to help connect like-minded professionals.
Lightspeed, Andreessen Horowitz, Coatue and other strategic investors are backing the professional networking platform Lunchclub.
India is a high priority for this professional networking platform and it is planning to onboard over 100, 000 users by this year’s end. After beta testing the platform, Lunchclub has now officially launched operations in India.
Bumble‘s former Director and VP – Marketing, Chelsea Cain Maclin is heading as Chief Marketing Officer for Lunchclub. For its India operations, the startup has onboarded Pritish Nair as the India lead, aiming to replicate the success he has had at Prodigy Finance, Indian Business and GrabOn.
Lunchclub is founded in the US and valued at over $100 million and it optimizes the professional matchmaking experience. It leverages AI to facilitate connections based on shared interests and goals to create deeper, more meaningful conversations – regardless of geographic location, industry, or generation.
Launched in 2017 as an invite-only concierge service for in-person introductions, the company pivoted to video calls when the pandemic hit last March. The platform is accessible through a mobile app or web browser.
According to Vladimir Novakovski, Lunchclub Co-Founder and CEO, India is a key global destination when it comes to professional networking. “In the post-pandemic scenario, while the need to establish quality professional connections is intact, there was a need for a channel which could help form meaningful conversations without sifting through hordes of people.”
“Being a digital AI-led platform, we are able to offer access to the most relevant professionals all over the world. We have seen great success and growth in the US market and are now confident of replicating the same in India. Your network,” added Novakovski.
“We are stoked to be unveiling Lunchclub’s services in India. The sheer diversity of connections that the platform can offer the sub-continent from all over the world will write a story of growth and opportunities for the emerging startup hub,” said Pritish Nair, India Lead – Lunchclub.
The brainchild of Vladimir Novakovski and Co-Founder Scott Wu, the startup landed a $100 million valuation with a $24.2 million Series A round led by Lightspeed Venture Partners.
It has raised a total of $30 million from Lightspeed, Andreessen Horowitz, Coatue, and other strategic investors. Lunchclub has created 1 million connections and achieved 15x growth in 2020 alone.