Online Dating Firm Launches $20M Yearly Fund to Boost “Virtual Intimacy” Startups

Social Discovery Group, renowned for platforms like Dating.com and DateMyAge.com, has unveiled a new venture studio committed to integrating virtual intimacy into everyday life. The studio is set to support budding startups focused on AI-driven communication, advancements in extended reality (XR), and innovative social discovery platforms.

Known as SDG Lab, the initiative pledges an impressive $20 million each year. The lab simplifies the fundraising process, enabling entrepreneurs to secure initial seed funding for developing their products along with additional capital to expand their businesses.

SDG Lab has already made strategic investments in several key areas. These include the virtual dating platform ‘VR Chat&Date’ and a selection of niche-oriented dating apps such as Kiseki, Flure, and AstroLove.

At the helm of SDG Lab is Alex Kudos, the former Chief Marketing Officer of Social Discovery Group. Under his leadership, the lab offers more than just financial support to startups. They provide crucial resources like legal assistance, back-office help, technical infrastructure, and marketing expertise, all aimed at enhancing social discovery and connection technologies.

“Social interaction is in a rapid evolution, and digital intimacy marks the next frontier,” says Alex Kudos, CEO of SDG Lab. “Our mission at SDG Lab goes beyond merely funding ideas. We are here to shape the future of human connections by collaborating with daring entrepreneurs and creating technologies that enable meaningful relationships to thrive globally.”

Kudos further highlights that, “Virtual relationships and AI-driven interactions are no longer confined to the realm of science fiction. They have become integral to our digital existence. At SDG Lab, we’re crafting the next wave of products that redefine how people engage and build connections online.”