Vancouver-based Paidia Gaming has revealed that it raised CAD $5.57 million in seed capital in 2021.

Why it matters: The funding validates the startup’s vision, which is a platform where women gamers and allies can play, create content and build community in a safe environment. 

• Context: “One in three people game, and nearly half of all gamers are women, yet 77 percent women report being harassed,” Jill Kenney, Paidia co-founder and CEO, told Vancouver Tech Journal last November. “We wanted to build a brand from the ground up that focused on women, [though] it’s for both women and allies, so men can join as well.”

Details: Named after the Greek goddess of play and amusement, Paidia is aiming to disrupt the gaming industry by making gaming inviting, entertaining and engaging, while fostering positive social connections.

• The startup’s gaming portal includes prize pool tournaments and access to safe gameplay, entertainment, community experiences and membership rewards.

Paidia's team is run by an executive team of all women gaming, technology and media leaders including Kenney (former head of media at Red Bull Canada), Stephanie Peloza, a popular gaming creator and transgender activist, Camille-Salazar Hadaway, Taylor Sudermann and Julia Becker.

The Paidia team is distributed around the world, but the firm has many local ties, including strategic advisor Becker and Jonathan Bixby, a co-founder and board member. The company told Vancouver Tech Journal last year that using Vancouver as an informal home base allows it to leverage the city’s growing tech and esports scenes.

Allies and partners: The company recently announced major partnerships with industry giants Xbox Canada and Razer.

• Plus, Paidia has signed on official ambassadors and influential gamers including Jeannail Carter (@Cuddle_Core), Stephanie Harvey (@missharvey) and Kelsey Impicciche (@KelseyDangerous)

Last year, Paidia launched a podcast, The Move Makers Podcast and said it has plans to eventually enter the streaming world.

With files from Erin Gee.