What is Yelp?
Yelp Inc. operates a widely recognized online platform designed to facilitate connections between individuals and local businesses. The service provides comprehensive local business information, including photos and user-generated reviews, enabling consumers to discover, engage with, and transact with businesses of all sizes. Founded in San Francisco in July 2004, Yelp has established itself as a key player in the local discovery and commerce ecosystem.
How much funding has Yelp raised?
Yelp has raised a total of $458.1M across 7 funding rounds:
Series A
$1M
Series B
$4.9M
Series C
$10M
Series D
$14.9M
Series E
$25M
Stock Offering
$113.4M
Stock Offering
$288.9M
Series A (2004): $1M with participation from Jeremy Stoppelman and Russel Simmons
Series B (2005): $4.9M led by MRL Web and Bessemer Venture Partners
Series C (2006): $10M supported by Bessemer Venture Partners, MRL Web, and Benchmark Capital Partners
Series D (2008): $14.9M featuring DAG Ventures, Benchmark Capital Partners, Bessemer Venture Partners, and MRL Web
Series E (2010): $25M backed by Elevation Partners
Stock Issuance/Offering (2012): $113.4M with participation from Undisclosed
Stock Issuance/Offering (2013): $288.9M led by Undisclosed
Key Investors in Yelp
Bessemer Venture Partners
Bessemer Venture Partners is a venture capital firm with a long history, established in 1911. They have offices globally and focus on supporting innovative companies across various stages of growth.
Benchmark Capital Partners
Benchmark Capital Partners is a venture capital firm known for investing in early-stage technology companies. They have a track record of backing successful and disruptive businesses.
Elevation Partners
Elevation Partners was a private equity fund that specialized in technology and media investments. They were known for early investments in prominent tech companies and have since concluded their operations, with partners moving to new investment vehicles.
What's next for Yelp?
The significant enterprise-level capitalizations and strategic investments indicate Yelp's ongoing commitment to scaling its operations and enhancing its platform. Future developments are likely to focus on expanding service offerings, refining the user experience, and potentially exploring new market segments or technological integrations to maintain its competitive edge in the local business services industry. The consistent backing suggests a strong belief in Yelp's long-term growth trajectory and market position.
See full Yelp company page