In a landmark development for digital youth safety, k-ID has announced the successful closure of a $45 million Series A funding round led by Andreessen Horowitz and Lightspeed Venture Partners. This funding, which also includes backing from industry giants such as Okta and Z Venture Capital, propels k-ID to the forefront of the global conversation on privacy and online safety for kids and teens.
Founded on the principle of empowering young users with safe and age-appropriate digital experiences, k-ID offers a revolutionary cross-platform sign-on solution. This technology not only simplifies online safety management for game developers but also addresses critical privacy concerns that are increasingly paramount in today’s digital landscape.
“The world is at a turning point where the safety and empowerment of our youth in online environments have become non-negotiable,” remarked Kieran Donovan, co-founder and CEO of k-ID. “This funding round marks a pivotal moment in our journey to redefine digital engagement for younger generations.”
The Series A funding follows k-ID’s rapid ascent in the tech industry, culminating in their recognition as a World Economic Forum Technology Pioneer for 2024. This accolade underscores their commitment to transforming online interactions through innovative compliance solutions.
“We are witnessing a seismic shift in how digital communities prioritize safety, especially for young users,” noted Jonathan Lai, General Partner at Andreessen Horowitz. “k-ID’s approach not only sets a new standard for youth safety but also paves the way for future advancements in digital identity management.”
In addition to securing substantial financial backing, k-ID has forged strategic partnerships, including one with the ESRB Privacy Certified program. This collaboration allows game publishers to integrate k-ID’s technology seamlessly, aligning with COPPA-based privacy requirements and enhancing their commitment to responsible data practices.
The k-ID team, comprising experts from Meta, Tencent, Google, and major gaming studios, brings unparalleled expertise in gaming, legal compliance, and trust and safety. Their collective vision aims to foster a safer digital environment where children and teens can thrive without compromising their privacy or security.
Reflecting on the company’s trajectory, Moritz Baier-Lentz, Partner at Lightspeed Venture Partners, commented, “k-ID’s dedication to bridging the gap between innovation and regulatory compliance is remarkable. Their ability to scale while maintaining a robust safety framework is a testament to their leadership in the industry.”
Looking ahead, k-ID plans to leverage its newfound resources to expand its global footprint and introduce cutting-edge solutions that empower the next generation of digital natives. The company’s participation in prestigious events such as the Summer Davos and the Games for Change Festival further underscores its influence in shaping the future of digital youth engagement. www.k-id.com
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