Hearst Communications

Founded in 1887, Hearst Communications is a diversified American media and information company. It publishes newspapers and magazines worldwide, operates television stations and cable networks, and provides information services to various industries.

Gil Canaani

Investor

Scott English

Senior Managing Director and Head of US Investments

David Famolari

Managing Director

Darcy Frisch

Managing Director and Vice President

Richard Malloch

Executive Vice President

Kunal Mehta

Investor

Past deals in Advertising

Optable

Series A in 2025
Optable offers a data collaboration and clean room platform for the advertising ecosystem, designed to govern, connect, and activate audience data while preserving privacy. The end-to-end solution integrates with ad delivery systems to enable secure activation and allows campaigns to be deployed directly from a clean room. It enables frictionless collaboration and interoperability so advertisers, publishers, and data companies can safely onboard, compare, and leverage audience data with any partner. The platform supports a decentralized approach to addressability and privacy-preserving methods for people-based targeting, providing secure data sharing and activation across partners.

Motor Trend

Acquisition in 2024
MotorTrend Group is the largest automotive media company in the world, incorporating a direct-to-consumer network, an extensive automotive digital operation, a massive social media presence, and a live event portfolio—all driven by industry-leading brands including MotorTrend, HOT ROD, and Roadkill. the group encompasses television’s No. 1 network for automotive superfans, a leading automotive YouTube Channel, and the MotorTrend App—our auto-dedicated subscription video-on-demand service.

tvScientific

Convertible Note in 2024
tvScientific is a platform that makes TV advertising accessible and measurable for brands and apps of all sizes. It leverages data to prove the value of TV ads, simplifies buying and optimization processes, and provides real-time reporting. Its Always-On Incrementality testing feature offers insights into the incremental value of CTV campaigns.

Optable

Series A in 2023
Optable offers a data collaboration and clean room platform for the advertising ecosystem, designed to govern, connect, and activate audience data while preserving privacy. The end-to-end solution integrates with ad delivery systems to enable secure activation and allows campaigns to be deployed directly from a clean room. It enables frictionless collaboration and interoperability so advertisers, publishers, and data companies can safely onboard, compare, and leverage audience data with any partner. The platform supports a decentralized approach to addressability and privacy-preserving methods for people-based targeting, providing secure data sharing and activation across partners.

tvScientific

Series A in 2022
tvScientific is a platform that makes TV advertising accessible and measurable for brands and apps of all sizes. It leverages data to prove the value of TV ads, simplifies buying and optimization processes, and provides real-time reporting. Its Always-On Incrementality testing feature offers insights into the incremental value of CTV campaigns.

Cognitive Networks

Series B in 2014
Cognitive Networks, founded in 2008 and based in San Francisco, California, collaborates with television set manufacturers to enhance viewer engagement and interactivity in TV programming. The company's Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) platform allows Smart TVs to recognize the content being displayed, facilitating transactions, information requests, and personalized viewing experiences. By connecting content providers and advertisers with audiences in a more meaningful way, Cognitive Networks aims to transform traditional television into a more interactive medium.

Nexage

Series B in 2012
Nexage is a global leader in premium mobile advertising, specializing in programmatic technologies that drive efficiency and liquidity in the digital ad market. Founded on being first-to-market with innovative solutions like mobile Real-Time Bidding (RTB), private exchanges, data-driven targeting tools Nexage Connect, and robust brand safety measures Nexage Protect, the company empowers publishers and advertisers worldwide to design and operate markets tailored to their business needs. With offices in Boston, New York, San Francisco, and London, Nexage serves clients globally, offering a comprehensive suite of advertising services that enhance audience targeting and engagement.

Yieldex

Series C in 2011
Yieldex is a prominent provider of digital advertising forecasting, analytic pricing, and inventory management tools tailored for online publishers and advertisers. The company offers Yieldex Analytics, which delivers forward-looking insights that enable publishers to optimize their operations, save time, and enhance revenue generation. Additionally, Yieldex operates YieldexDirect, a programmatic marketplace that facilitates the buying and selling of targeted, guaranteed advertising inventory, providing a centralized platform for both advertisers and publishers. The company’s DynamicIQ service supports decision-making by offering insights into inventory availability and revenue forecasts for various products, while BusinessIQ provides analytic reports and dashboards that assist publishers in managing their operations and strategic planning. Yieldex's solutions are utilized by leading media organizations, enhancing their digital advertising strategies and maximizing their advertising value.

Hootsuite

Debt Financing in 2011
Hootsuite is a social media management platform that assists businesses in engaging with their customers across various social media channels. The platform provides a comprehensive suite of tools designed to simplify marketing efforts, enhance sales, and improve customer service. Users can create, schedule, publish, and manage content and advertising campaigns from a single, secure web-based dashboard. Hootsuite's features enable organizations to manage all their social media profiles efficiently, discover effective content, and analyze trends through relevant data insights. This functionality helps businesses optimize their social media strategies and connect more effectively with their audiences.

iCrossing

Acquisition in 2010
iCrossing is a digital marketing company based in Scottsdale, Arizona, with a global presence. The company provides a comprehensive marketing platform that can be customized to meet the unique needs of its clients. iCrossing specializes in planning services that include customer research, competitive analysis, persona development, and various digital marketing strategies such as integrated search, social media, and mobile marketing. In addition to its planning capabilities, it offers development services that encompass search engine marketing, display advertising, email marketing, and website and social media campaign development. The company emphasizes analytics and performance planning, equipping clients with streamlined access to extensive reports and data sets to enhance their marketing efficacy.

Hootsuite

Series A in 2010
Hootsuite is a social media management platform that assists businesses in engaging with their customers across various social media channels. The platform provides a comprehensive suite of tools designed to simplify marketing efforts, enhance sales, and improve customer service. Users can create, schedule, publish, and manage content and advertising campaigns from a single, secure web-based dashboard. Hootsuite's features enable organizations to manage all their social media profiles efficiently, discover effective content, and analyze trends through relevant data insights. This functionality helps businesses optimize their social media strategies and connect more effectively with their audiences.

Pandora Media

Series F in 2009
Pandora Media, LLC is a music and podcast discovery platform based in Oakland, California, serving approximately 70 million users each month. Founded in 2000, Pandora utilizes its proprietary Music Genome Project and Podcast Genome Project technologies to deliver personalized music streaming services. Unlike traditional radio, which broadcasts the same content to all listeners, Pandora allows users to create customized stations and playlists, as well as search for and play songs on demand. The platform is accessible via mobile devices, web applications, and approximately 2,000 connected products in homes and vehicles. Pandora generates revenue through an ad-supported radio service, a subscription service called Pandora Plus, and an on-demand service known as Pandora Premium. By leveraging extensive listener data, Pandora enables targeted advertising for both local and national advertisers while providing artists with valuable insights to connect with their audience.

The NewsMarket

Venture Round in 2009
The NewsMarket, Inc. is a web-based video marketing and distribution platform that connects brands, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to international media. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in New York, the company offers a diverse range of content including videos, audios, and images across various categories such as aerospace, automotive, education, entertainment, health care, and technology. The platform enables clients to effectively market and share their video content with media outlets, blogs, and online communities, thereby extending the reach of their messages. In addition to content distribution, The NewsMarket specializes in managing online newsrooms and delivering live interviews and event broadcasts. With a global presence that includes offices in cities such as Beijing, London, and Singapore, The NewsMarket has positioned itself as a key player in the digital marketing landscape.

Jingle Networks

Series D in 2009
Jingle Networks is a prominent provider of advertising and technology solutions focused on voice and mobile business search. The company connects businesses with consumers ready to transact by leveraging a robust new media channel within the growing business search market. Jingle Networks offers tailored solutions for carriers, network operators, advertising agencies, brand marketers, and small businesses. Its services enable thousands of national brands and local businesses to utilize brief in-call audio or text advertisements to attract new customers during phone calls or online searches. The company's innovative technology has made it a preferred choice for network operators and telecom carriers. Jingle Networks is also known for creating the free directory assistance service 1-800-FREE411, allowing consumers to obtain phone numbers without charge. This service is funded by short, targeted advertising messages that play while the caller waits for information. Founded by experienced professionals in advertising and technology, Jingle Networks continues to deliver effective solutions for building brand awareness and maximizing business search outcomes.

Pandora Media

Series E in 2009
Pandora Media, LLC is a music and podcast discovery platform based in Oakland, California, serving approximately 70 million users each month. Founded in 2000, Pandora utilizes its proprietary Music Genome Project and Podcast Genome Project technologies to deliver personalized music streaming services. Unlike traditional radio, which broadcasts the same content to all listeners, Pandora allows users to create customized stations and playlists, as well as search for and play songs on demand. The platform is accessible via mobile devices, web applications, and approximately 2,000 connected products in homes and vehicles. Pandora generates revenue through an ad-supported radio service, a subscription service called Pandora Plus, and an on-demand service known as Pandora Premium. By leveraging extensive listener data, Pandora enables targeted advertising for both local and national advertisers while providing artists with valuable insights to connect with their audience.

WideOrbit

Series D in 2008
WideOrbit Inc. is a prominent provider of advertising management technology, catering to broadcast television, cable networks, and radio stations. Founded in 1999 and headquartered in San Francisco, the company offers a comprehensive suite of solutions designed to streamline operations and enhance revenue across various media channels. Its flagship products include WO Traffic, which manages advertisement sales and operations; WO Programmatic TV for local TV stations; and WO Analytics, which provides insights into pricing and sales performance. Additionally, WideOrbit offers tools for digital audio monetization, programmatic sales, and content management, serving over 6,000 clients, including major networks such as ABC/Disney and NBC Universal. The company also provides implementation and consulting services, establishing itself as the system of record for substantial annual advertising expenditures. With additional offices in London and Paris, WideOrbit continues to innovate in the advertising technology space.

WideOrbit

Series C in 2008
WideOrbit Inc. is a prominent provider of advertising management technology, catering to broadcast television, cable networks, and radio stations. Founded in 1999 and headquartered in San Francisco, the company offers a comprehensive suite of solutions designed to streamline operations and enhance revenue across various media channels. Its flagship products include WO Traffic, which manages advertisement sales and operations; WO Programmatic TV for local TV stations; and WO Analytics, which provides insights into pricing and sales performance. Additionally, WideOrbit offers tools for digital audio monetization, programmatic sales, and content management, serving over 6,000 clients, including major networks such as ABC/Disney and NBC Universal. The company also provides implementation and consulting services, establishing itself as the system of record for substantial annual advertising expenditures. With additional offices in London and Paris, WideOrbit continues to innovate in the advertising technology space.

First30Days

Series A in 2008
First30Days is a self-help platform that guides individuals through the initial 30 days of significant life changes, such as job transitions, starting a business, home buying, pregnancy, and divorce. The website aims to provide inspirational content and expert advice to motivate users and facilitate positive change in their lives. It connects users with professionals who offer insights tailored to their specific situations, helping them navigate these transitions effectively. The business model includes generating revenue through targeted advertisements and sponsorships relevant to each life change, such as promoting parenting products for new parents or banking services for aspiring entrepreneurs. Founded by Ariane de Bonvoisin, who has a background in corporate strategy and venture capital, First30Days leverages her expertise to support individuals in their journeys through change.

Jingle Networks

Series C in 2008
Jingle Networks is a prominent provider of advertising and technology solutions focused on voice and mobile business search. The company connects businesses with consumers ready to transact by leveraging a robust new media channel within the growing business search market. Jingle Networks offers tailored solutions for carriers, network operators, advertising agencies, brand marketers, and small businesses. Its services enable thousands of national brands and local businesses to utilize brief in-call audio or text advertisements to attract new customers during phone calls or online searches. The company's innovative technology has made it a preferred choice for network operators and telecom carriers. Jingle Networks is also known for creating the free directory assistance service 1-800-FREE411, allowing consumers to obtain phone numbers without charge. This service is funded by short, targeted advertising messages that play while the caller waits for information. Founded by experienced professionals in advertising and technology, Jingle Networks continues to deliver effective solutions for building brand awareness and maximizing business search outcomes.

UGO Entertainment

Acquisition in 2007
UGO Networks, a division of Hearst Corporation, specializes in creating engaging lifestyle content tailored for the 18-34 male demographic. Its primary platforms, UGO.com and 1UP.com, feature comprehensive daily coverage of gaming and entertainment, including game reviews, pop culture news, and lifestyle articles. Complemented by a network of affiliated properties, UGO provides additional resources such as game cheats, interactive content, and celebrity news. The company attracts a global audience of 42 million visitors, positioning itself as a trusted source for influential trendsetters who are keen on the latest developments in gaming and entertainment. UGO Networks also offers advertisers targeted opportunities to connect with this engaged audience through customized online advertising solutions. Headquartered in New York City, UGO maintains offices in San Francisco, Chicago, and Santa Monica.

Local Corporation

Post in 2007
Local Corporation is a national online media company that connects merchants with consumers. It offers digital marketing products and tools such as local business search, mobile services, SEO, web hosting, social media management, and daily deals to help merchants grow their businesses.

Double Fusion

Series C in 2006
Double Fusion, Inc. specializes in in-game and web-based advertising solutions aimed at marketers and their agencies, focusing on engaging the gamer demographic. Founded in 2004 and headquartered in San Francisco, the company offers a suite of tools, including fusion.sdk, which facilitates a range of in-game ad placements that can be served, tracked, and reported. Additionally, their fusion.runtime product enables the integration and management of various ad formats such as 2D, 3D, and video ads within games, while also supporting applications for PC back catalogue titles. Double Fusion has expanded its presence with offices in Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, Jerusalem, London, and Tokyo, reinforcing its global reach in the advertising sector.

Jingle Networks

Series C in 2006
Jingle Networks is a prominent provider of advertising and technology solutions focused on voice and mobile business search. The company connects businesses with consumers ready to transact by leveraging a robust new media channel within the growing business search market. Jingle Networks offers tailored solutions for carriers, network operators, advertising agencies, brand marketers, and small businesses. Its services enable thousands of national brands and local businesses to utilize brief in-call audio or text advertisements to attract new customers during phone calls or online searches. The company's innovative technology has made it a preferred choice for network operators and telecom carriers. Jingle Networks is also known for creating the free directory assistance service 1-800-FREE411, allowing consumers to obtain phone numbers without charge. This service is funded by short, targeted advertising messages that play while the caller waits for information. Founded by experienced professionals in advertising and technology, Jingle Networks continues to deliver effective solutions for building brand awareness and maximizing business search outcomes.

Pandora Media

Series D in 2006
Pandora Media, LLC is a music and podcast discovery platform based in Oakland, California, serving approximately 70 million users each month. Founded in 2000, Pandora utilizes its proprietary Music Genome Project and Podcast Genome Project technologies to deliver personalized music streaming services. Unlike traditional radio, which broadcasts the same content to all listeners, Pandora allows users to create customized stations and playlists, as well as search for and play songs on demand. The platform is accessible via mobile devices, web applications, and approximately 2,000 connected products in homes and vehicles. Pandora generates revenue through an ad-supported radio service, a subscription service called Pandora Plus, and an on-demand service known as Pandora Premium. By leveraging extensive listener data, Pandora enables targeted advertising for both local and national advertisers while providing artists with valuable insights to connect with their audience.

Surphace

Series B in 2006
Surphace is a technology company specializing in contextual content tools for online publishers. It offers a patent-pending process called Content Genome™, which delivers automated related content delivery without requiring taxonomies or training. Surphace's tools enhance reader engagement by connecting text, video, photos, and ads, leading to increased time spent on sites and page views per visit. Additionally, these tools generate new revenue streams for publishers. With over 150,000 integrations across 1.2 billion monthly article pages worldwide, Surphace serves a diverse range of partners, from A-list publishers to micro-publishers and independent blogs.

Pandora Media

Series C in 2006
Pandora Media, LLC is a music and podcast discovery platform based in Oakland, California, serving approximately 70 million users each month. Founded in 2000, Pandora utilizes its proprietary Music Genome Project and Podcast Genome Project technologies to deliver personalized music streaming services. Unlike traditional radio, which broadcasts the same content to all listeners, Pandora allows users to create customized stations and playlists, as well as search for and play songs on demand. The platform is accessible via mobile devices, web applications, and approximately 2,000 connected products in homes and vehicles. Pandora generates revenue through an ad-supported radio service, a subscription service called Pandora Plus, and an on-demand service known as Pandora Premium. By leveraging extensive listener data, Pandora enables targeted advertising for both local and national advertisers while providing artists with valuable insights to connect with their audience.

The NewsMarket

Series C in 2005
The NewsMarket, Inc. is a web-based video marketing and distribution platform that connects brands, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to international media. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in New York, the company offers a diverse range of content including videos, audios, and images across various categories such as aerospace, automotive, education, entertainment, health care, and technology. The platform enables clients to effectively market and share their video content with media outlets, blogs, and online communities, thereby extending the reach of their messages. In addition to content distribution, The NewsMarket specializes in managing online newsrooms and delivering live interviews and event broadcasts. With a global presence that includes offices in cities such as Beijing, London, and Singapore, The NewsMarket has positioned itself as a key player in the digital marketing landscape.

The NewsMarket

Series B in 2004
The NewsMarket, Inc. is a web-based video marketing and distribution platform that connects brands, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to international media. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in New York, the company offers a diverse range of content including videos, audios, and images across various categories such as aerospace, automotive, education, entertainment, health care, and technology. The platform enables clients to effectively market and share their video content with media outlets, blogs, and online communities, thereby extending the reach of their messages. In addition to content distribution, The NewsMarket specializes in managing online newsrooms and delivering live interviews and event broadcasts. With a global presence that includes offices in cities such as Beijing, London, and Singapore, The NewsMarket has positioned itself as a key player in the digital marketing landscape.

WideOrbit

Series B in 2002
WideOrbit Inc. is a prominent provider of advertising management technology, catering to broadcast television, cable networks, and radio stations. Founded in 1999 and headquartered in San Francisco, the company offers a comprehensive suite of solutions designed to streamline operations and enhance revenue across various media channels. Its flagship products include WO Traffic, which manages advertisement sales and operations; WO Programmatic TV for local TV stations; and WO Analytics, which provides insights into pricing and sales performance. Additionally, WideOrbit offers tools for digital audio monetization, programmatic sales, and content management, serving over 6,000 clients, including major networks such as ABC/Disney and NBC Universal. The company also provides implementation and consulting services, establishing itself as the system of record for substantial annual advertising expenditures. With additional offices in London and Paris, WideOrbit continues to innovate in the advertising technology space.

Internet Broadcasting System

Venture Round in 2001
Internet Broadcasting System is a company focused on transforming the engagement between broadcast media leaders and their audiences through advanced digital solutions. Established in 1996 and headquartered in St. Paul, Minnesota, the company specializes in scalable publishing technologies, offering a SaaS-based web publishing platform alongside original and syndicated content. Additionally, it operates the IB Digital Agency, one of the largest digital advertising agencies, providing comprehensive advertising and sales services. Internet Broadcasting has a strong commitment to supporting local television companies, delivering award-winning websites and services to notable clients such as Hearst Television, E.W. Scripps, and CNN. Through its innovative approach, Internet Broadcasting aims to enhance digital growth and foster stronger consumer relationships in the media landscape.
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