What is iROKOtv?
iROKOtv is a prominent web platform specializing in on-demand Nigerian films, often referred to as Nollywood. Launched in December 2011, it was among Africa's first mainstream online movie streaming services, offering a vast library of over 5,000 film titles. Founded by Jason Njoku and Bastian Gotter, iROKOtv emerged from a recognized global demand for African cinema, addressing the lack of legal and accessible viewing options. The company's parent, iROKO Partners, was established in December 2010 to bridge this gap through licensing agreements with local Nigerian producers, establishing a robust digital distribution channel for African content.
How much funding has iROKOtv raised?
iROKOtv has raised a total of $40M across 5 funding rounds:
Series A
$3M
Series B
$8M
Series C
$2M
Series D
$8M
Series E
$19M
Series A (2011): $3M with participation from Tiger Global Management
Series B (2012): $8M led by Tiger Global Management
Series C (2012): $2M supported by Kinnevik
Series D (2013): $8M featuring Kinnevik and Rise Capital
Series E (2016): $19M backed by AB Kinnevik and CANAL+
Key Investors in iROKOtv
Tiger Global Management
Tiger Global Management is a prominent investment firm known for its significant backing of technology and internet companies across various stages of growth.
Kinnevik
Kinnevik is an industry-focused investment company with an entrepreneurial spirit, dedicated to building and leading fast-growing digital consumer businesses.
CANAL+
CANAL+ is a leading media group offering a wide range of television entertainment, including local and international content, sports, and news, with a strong presence in African markets.
What's next for iROKOtv?
With substantial backing, iROKOtv is strategically positioned for continued expansion and market leadership. The recent major strategic investment signals confidence in the company's business model and its potential to further penetrate both existing and new markets. Future initiatives are likely to focus on enhancing content acquisition, expanding its subscriber base, and potentially exploring new technological integrations to improve user experience. This sustained capital infusion will be critical for iROKOtv to maintain its competitive edge and solidify its role as a key player in the global digital entertainment landscape, particularly within emerging markets.
See full iROKOtv company page