Koolanoo - Giza's Latest Internet Investment
I am very proud to announce Giza's latest investment in the Internet field: Koolanoo Group.
Koolanoo has developed a platform for creating and running vertical social networks. Founders Oded Kobo and Guy Grinberg believe that the future of the social networking space lies in finding new, more defined communities and exploring new geographical areas in which to launch new social networks.
Currently, the company maintains two sites:
- Koolanoo.com is the world's first network for young Jewish professionals. With well over 10,000 registered members, it's a good place to meet people for business or dating purposes
- 360Quan is an entertainment-based social network which targets the nascent but fast-growing community of young Internet users in China. It offers Chinese users a space for blogging and sharing photos and videos
Giza decided to invest in this project on the strength of entrepreneurs who are driven, energetic, and incredibly creative when it comes to new marketing efforts; as well as a vision which looks beyond just the usual US and English-speaking market.
Managing director Ori Israely led Giza's investment on this one, and I am proud to be a member of the team. Giza is also joined by a group of first-rate private investors.
Oded and Guy have a big vision for Koolanoo and it will be an interesting ride with them there.
China, the last online frontier
Posted by:Bruce Rokowitz | February 25, 2007 at 11:22 PM
What was the valuation? - Who are the other investors? Was this the first round?
Posted by:Jacob Steinberg | March 14, 2007 at 08:23 PM
O.D. Kobo, Chairman and CEO of The Koolanoo Group. A strategic Internet investment company with an emphasis in online ventures in China. Internet maverick that has lead a string of heavy investors into China.
The Koolanoo Group owns and operates 360Quan.com - China's Social Network/Video Sharing/Blog/Music/and Broadcasting mix. One of the fastest growing websites online in China, 360Quan is directed for the youth culture of China, currently consisting of 86% of the online traffic.
Mr. Kobo draws a long history of successful start-ups in the Internet industry since 1998, always as a private investor, until Koolanoo Group. Known for his extensive operating skills, aggressive marketing strategies and a 'hands-on' approach to management. Innovative approaches and focus.
The Koolanoo Group is funded by Giza VC, Ron Zuckerman of DSP, Sapiens, Precise Software Solutions, Magnum VC and Shimon Alon of Veritas, Scitex and Precise Software Solutions.
O.D. Kobo (Oded David Kobo) Born: Israel August 30th, 1974. Resides in Beijing, China.
For our records, how correct is the above information sourced from various Google links-?
Posted by:Joseph | April 04, 2007 at 07:52 AM