What is Meetup?
Founded in 2002 and headquartered in New York, New York, Meetup serves as a vital platform for individuals seeking to connect with others, learn new skills, and find support through local groups. The service facilitates the creation and discovery of communities centered around shared interests, hobbies, and professional development, enabling users to meet new people and engage in meaningful offline interactions. Its longevity and continued funding indicate a persistent demand for in-person social and professional networking opportunities in an increasingly digital world.
How much funding has Meetup raised?
Meetup has raised a total of $20.3M across 5 funding rounds:
Series B
$5.3M
Series C
$4.5M
Series D
$7.5M
Series A
$1M
Debt
$2M
Series B (2003): $5.3M with participation from Omidyar Network and Draper Fisher Jurvetson (DFJ)
Series C (2006): $4.5M led by Draper Fisher Jurvetson (DFJ), eBay, and Omidyar Network
Series D (2008): $7.5M supported by Omidyar Network, Union Square Ventures, and Draper Fisher Jurvetson (DFJ)
Series A (2014): $1M featuring Click Ventures and Draper Fisher Jurvetson (DFJ)
Debt (2020): $2M backed by PPP
Key Investors in Meetup
Draper Fisher Jurvetson (DFJ)
Draper Fisher Jurvetson is a venture capital firm known for investing in early-stage technology companies with transformative potential. Their portfolio often includes disruptive startups across various sectors, aiming to back visionary entrepreneurs.
Omidyar Network
Omidyar Network is a philanthropic investment firm focused on shaping the digital revolution to promote shared power and prosperity. They support initiatives in technology, governance, and culture, aiming for positive societal impact.
eBay
eBay is a global e-commerce platform connecting buyers and sellers worldwide. As an investor, eBay's interest in Meetup likely stems from synergies in online marketplaces and community-driven commerce.
What's next for Meetup?
The recent major strategic investment in Meetup signals a phase of potential expansion and enhancement of its community-building services. This capital infusion is likely to be directed towards technological advancements, user acquisition, and the development of new features to deepen community engagement. As the company continues to evolve, its focus will remain on empowering individuals to build and participate in vibrant local networks, reinforcing its position as a leader in the social connection space.
See full Meetup company page
