Spain-based Zuzeen, a start-up accelerated by Wayra – a Telefónica initiative whose main objective is to promote innovation and the detection of new talents in Latin America and Europe – has merged with US-based Rushmore.
As part of the operation, the company has obtained $1.2m in a round of funding led by Kibo Ventures, an early stage fund in Spain and part of Amérigo, the network of technological funds promoted by Telefónica and Betaworks.
Zuzeen is one of the 44 start-ups invested in by Wayra in Spain, chosen from among over 1300 projects presented in just over two years.
The relationship between Rushmore and Zuzeen began in 2013 when the two companies joined forces, together with the world famous pianist Lang Lang and Telefónica, to create a unique digital experience during his tour around Spain. Over the course of ten days, more than 40,000 fans followed Lang Lang on the Rushmore channel as he travelled from the airport to the hotel, in his press conference, prior to the concert, and even during an exclusive master class via its platform.
Ramón Sastrón, founder of Zuzeen, said: “Our objective has always been to bring fans closer to their favourite artists and this experiment with Lang Lang demonstrated what can be done in an engaging, innovative way which benefits both the fans and the artists. Now, everyone is excited at the prospect of constructing Rushmore based on this experience, and we can’t wait to work with more artists and their fans to create memorable experiences for them.”
The merged company will continue to use the Rushmore name.