Qloo

Qloo is a leading artificial intelligence company specializing in predicting consumer tastes and preferences across various cultural domains, including music, film, television, dining, fashion, and travel. Founded in 2012 by Alex Elias and Jay Alger, Qloo operates from its headquarters in New York City.

Technology and Data

Qloo's proprietary AI platform, known as Taste AI, analyzes a vast repository of lifestyle entities and anonymized consumer behavior signals to decode and predict individual and group preferences. The platform maintains user anonymity by not collecting any Personally Identifiable Information (PII). Instead, it derives recommendations based on co-occurrences between lifestyle entities and anonymized behavioral signals.

Applications and Clients

Qloo's AI-driven insights are utilized by companies across various industries to enhance personalization and consumer engagement. Notable clients include Netflix, which leverages Qloo's technology to enhance merchandising by identifying actors who resonate with certain demographics, and Michelin, which uses Qloo to serve recommendations in its Michelin Guide app. Other clients span sectors such as entertainment, publishing, travel, hospitality, and consumer packaged goods.

Funding and Growth

Since its inception, Qloo has attracted significant investment from prominent figures and institutions. In 2016, the company secured $4.5 million in venture capital from investors including Barry Sternlicht, Pierre Lagrange, and Leonardo DiCaprio. Subsequent funding rounds included a $6.5 million investment in 2017 from AXA Strategic Ventures and Elton John, and a $25 million Series C round in 2024 led by AI Ventures, with participation from AXA Venture Partners, Eldridge, and Moderne Ventures.

Achievements

Qloo has received industry recognition for its contributions to AI and consumer insights. In 2023, it was named the "Best Decision Intelligence Company" at the AI Breakthrough Awards. Additionally, Qloo has been featured in the Inc. 5000 list, ranking No. 360 in 2022, No. 344 in 2021, and No. 187 in 2020.

Mission

Qloo aims to demystify the intricacies of global consumer tastes and preferences, enabling businesses to deliver personalized experiences and make informed decisions based on advanced cultural AI insights.

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