US-based virtual reality technology producer Jaunt raised a $65m series C round yesterday co-led by media company Walt Disney, corporate-backed Evolution Media Partners, and venture capital firm China Media Capital.
Disney invested through an unnamed subsidiary, while broadcasters BSkyB and ProSiebenSat.1; Google Ventures, the investment arm of internet company Google; publisher Axel Springer; and sports and entertainment holding firm Madison Square Garden also took part.
Venture capital firms Highland Capital, Redpoint Ventures and SV Angel also contributed funds.
Incorporated in 2013, Jaunt develops software, tools, hardware and applications for cinematic virtual reality. The company also works with brands and filmmakers to create own-brand content through its studio arm, Jaunt Studios.
Jaunt will use the cash to scale up production, further develop its camera and software, bring its content to more mobile devices and hire more staff both at its headquarters and studio.
Google Ventures and BSkyB previously participated in a $27.8m series B round in August 2014, alongside private investors. BSkyB backed a $6.8m series A round in April 2014, which also saw participation from Redpoint, SV Angel and assorted private investors.
BSkyB had earlier also invested $350,000 in seed funding in 2013.
Evolution Media Partners is a joint venture for media company Participant Media, private equity firm TPG Growth and Evolution Media Capital, a merchant bank affiliated with talent agency Creative Artists Agency.