Kwippit
Image-amplified messaging app that creates an epic messaging experience.
| Date | Investors | Amount | Round |
|---|---|---|---|
| investor investor | €0.0 | round | |
| N/A | $1.0m | Seed | |
| Total Funding | 000k | ||
Kwippit, operating legally as Kwippo, Inc., was established in 2015 by co-founders Rob Horning, who also served as CEO, and Jim Adler. The company entered the digital content and mobile messaging market with the launch of its image-amplified messaging application in August 2016. Positioned as an alternative to what it termed the "lame" emoji, Kwippit's core offering was a mobile app that allowed users to enhance their text-based messages with a curated library of original images and GIFs sourced from artists and brands.
The company's initial strategy focused on user self-expression, enabling individuals to select a visual from the Kwippit gallery, overlay their own text, and share the composite message across various platforms, including SMS, social media, and email, without the recipient needing the app installed. A key milestone was securing a $2.5 million seed funding round in August 2016, with participation from investors such as Wildcat Capital Management, Dave Leyrer of FirstMark Capital, and Scott Nirenberski of Muskoka Capital Management. This capital was intended to fuel the app's development and market penetration. Over its operational history, the company raised a total of $4.06 million across three funding rounds.
Kwippit's business model evolved to incorporate a philanthropic and rewards-based component. The platform partnered with non-profit organizations, like the Elton John AIDS Foundation, allowing users to support causes through their engagement with specific branded content channels. This engagement also provided users entry into sweepstakes and contests for prizes and gave them access to local merchant offerings, such as free coffee or food, creating a multi-faceted value proposition. The service was provided through a mobile application available for both iOS and Android devices, operating on a free-to-use basis for consumers.
Keywords: mobile messaging app, image-amplified messaging, digital content network, GIF sharing, messaging stickers, self-expression platform, Rob Horning, Jim Adler, Wildcat Capital Management, cause marketing, user-generated content, rewards platform, philanthropic partnerships, mobile application, messaging customization, content personalization, digital stickers