Sea Monster, a South African Gaming Startup, raises $1-million investment from Vumela Fund

Sea Monster, a South African Gaming Startup, raises $1-million investment from Vumela Fund

Sea Monster, a South African, Gaming, animation, and AR/VR startup, has raised a $1-million investment from FirstRand’s Vumela Fund.

Sea Monster uses games, VR, and AR technology as a tool to develop new and advanced methods of communication and education solutions for corporations.

The team of analysts, animators, game designers developers at Sea Monster work to create effective and measurable digital tools for corporations to access large and remote audiences.

CEO of Sea Monster, Glenn Gillis said, “Towards the middle of 2019, we finally felt that we were ready to actively engage with investors to help us create products, and revenue share opportunities, in addition to building on our solid service relationships.”

“We chose Edge Growth as our preferred VC partner because of their years of experience, a great reputation for fairness and strategic guidance, and because they bring impeccable empowerment credentials to the table. Despite the challenges with Covid-19, Edge never blinked, and we’re delighted that we were able to conclude the deal under the current circumstances,” Gillis further stated.

The company will use the secured investment to unlock digital solutions to change the way in which corporations address internal training and communication.

Edge Growth Lead Deal Maker, Nivesh Pather  “Sea Monster has proven that they are industry leaders in creating innovative digital solutions for corporate challenges that are more impactful and scalable than traditional solutions. We are impressed by the team’s skillsets and experience and by their deep passion to drive solutions that deliver both business and social outcomes. This aligns with our business objectives at Edge Growth.”

“Through this investment and partnership, we fully expect Sea Monster to become a recognized global player in interactive experiences and solutions which change the way corporates engage their consumers and employees,” Pather added.

Since the Sea Monster started operations, it has provided communication and learning solutions for some big companies such as FNB, Capitec, Old Mutal, Mediclinic International, Alexander Forbes, the South African Reserve Bank, Shell, and many more.

FirstRand’s Vumela Fund is managed by leading SME Venture Fund Manager Edge Growth in 2009. The fund grants financial investment into entrepreneurial companies, non-financial growth support, access to market to prospective investees who bring fresh solutions, stimulate job creation and help create positive social impact in South Africa.

Sea Monster was founded in 2011 by Glenn Gillis and Wynand “Munki” Groenewald.