Cracking the Online Video Monetization Nut: Adap.tv CEO Amir Ashkenazi (Part 10)
Check other articles in the series...We conclude our conversation with a brief discussion about Google, and any potential impact it may have on Adapt.tv, including competing for talent.
SM: Which companies are out there that you find interesting, who have good approaches, besides yourselves? AA: We obviously think the approach should be viewer friendly, effective monetization. I think it is still early, and we will see more companies joining the market, but today what you see are poster ads or pre-roll advertising which is just replicating the TV model on the Internet. I am a lot more optimistic about the future of this industry than having pre-rolls all over the place.
SM: What are your thoughts about Google’s efforts in this area? AA: I am somewhat aware of what their efforts are. If you have information, I would love to hear more!
SM: How big is your research team? AA: We have about 12 people.
SM: All computer scientists? AA: Yes.
SM: Do you have difficulty competing with Google hiring these people? AA: No, so far it has gone really well. Google has its charm and attractiveness, but fast-growing startups are also very attractive. People do still prefer to work in a small company where their impact is much greater.
SM: What stage are you at right now? Are you in a seed stage, or a Series A? AA: We raised an initial round of capital from Gemini Israeli Funds. We are well funded and running full speed ahead.
SM: I will watch what you are doing, and please keep me posted on how this progresses! AA: Thank you much!
This segment is part 10 in a 10 part series
Jump to part: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Great interview!