Cracking the Online Video Monetization Nut: Adap.tv CEO Amir Ashkenazi (Part 10)

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!

[Part 9]
[Part 8]
[Part 7]
[Part 6]
[Part 5]
[Part 4]
[Part 3]
[Part 2]
[Part 1]

This segment is part 10 in the series : Cracking the Online Video Monetization Nut: Adap.tv CEO Amir Ashkenazi
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