Smartify secures £1m seed funding from Pembroke VCT to expand global partnerships and educational offerings.
Pembroke VCT has backed Smartify with a £1m investment to drive international expansion and platform development.
Smartify operates a digital platform that connects users with global art collections through scanning technology and online cultural education. The application provides museums with next-generation digital infrastructure and engagement tools.
Smartify has secured £1m in seed funding from Pembroke VCT to accelerate its international growth and develop its online educational offerings. The fresh capital will enable the firm to scale its operations in the United States and expand its digital architecture beyond the core mobile application.
The funding follows a period of significant expansion for the company, which adapted its model to deliver virtual arts programmes during pandemic lockdowns. Smartify currently collaborates with over 160 international galleries, including the National Gallery in London and the Smithsonian.
From the founder
"This is a huge step forward for Smartify and we’re delighted to see the hard work of our team result in achieving this milestone. This first institutional fundraise will facilitate expansion worldwide and will be crucial in allowing us to deliver rich arts education and storytelling online."
Anna Lowe
Co-Founder and Director of Partnerships at Smartify
Investor perspective
"The Smartify app is a truly unique product enabling millions of people worldwide to meaningfully connect with art, whether in a gallery or from home during the pandemic. Since launch five years ago, Smartify has established itself as the leading app for galleries and art lovers alike and we are very excited to see the launch of the new web platform and to support Smartify in its next stage of growth"
Andrew Wolfson
CEO, Pembroke VCT
Use of funds
- 01Expand into international markets
- 02Continue product development