Podeo closes series A funding round: Dubai-based podcast platform Podeo raised USD 5.4 mn in a series A funding round, led by Dubai-based VC Oraseya Capital, the VC arm of Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority, according to a press release (pdf). The funding round saw participation from Ibtikar Fund, Cedar Mundi Ventures, Samarium, iSME, and Razor Capital.
Where’s the money going? Podeo plans to use the funding to accelerate its expansion, targeting emerging markets like Latin America, Eastern Europe, and Southeast Asia, founder Stefano Fallaha told TechCrunch. The platform plans to eliminate creator subscription fees, providing podcast hosting and distribution at no charge to help creators boost their discoverability. The funds will also enhance AI-driven services and expand podcast product offerings.
About Podeo: Founded in 2020 by Fallaha (LinkedIn), Anthony Essaye (LinkedIn), and Mario Hayek (LinkedIn), Podeo is a podcast app that helps creators distribute and monetize their content audio across various platforms, including radio, airlines, ride-hailing services, gaming, and chat apps. The app currently hosts over 100k creators, with a global listener base of over 50 mn.