# Ellation

Startup profile on Capital Atlas: https://capitalatlas.ai/startups/ellation

- Industry: Internet
- Headquarters: San Francisco, US
- Website: www.crunchyroll.com
- Total disclosed funding: $4M
- Latest round: Series A (Feb 27, 2008)
- Investors on record: 1

## About

Ellation, LLC operates Crunchyroll, a leading streaming service dedicated to anime content, offering a vast library of series, exclusive originals, and merchandise to global audiences.Founded in 2006 in San Francisco, US, Ellation, LLC is the parent company of Crunchyroll, Inc., a platform for anime streaming. The company was fully acquired by Sony Pictures Television in December 2020 for JPY 122.2 billion. The founder, Kun Gao, has a history in the entertainment industry, having previously worked on anime projects before establishing Crunchyroll. Ellation has successfully completed 5 funding deals, with the most recent being a TRADE SALE in December 2020 that raised JPY 122.2 billion, which is also the total amount raised.Crunchyroll is a premier streaming platform specializing in anime content, offering a comprehensive library that includes full seasons of popular anime series, simulcasts, and exclusive Crunchyroll Originals. The service caters to both seasoned anime enthusiasts and newcomers, providing access to a diverse range of genres such as action, romance, fantasy, and sci-fi. Customers can enjoy thousands of hours of content on-demand, with new episodes available shortly after their release in Japan. The Crunchyroll app is compatible with multiple devices, allowing users to watch anytime and anywhere. In addition to streaming services, Crunchyroll features a dedicated online store where customers can purchase anime merchandise, collectibles, and apparel. The platform primarily serves audiences in North America, Europe, Latin America, and parts of Asia, with localized content and language options to cater to its global user base.Crunchyroll generates revenue primarily through a subscription-based model, offering various pricing tiers that provide users with different levels of access to its content library. Premium subscribers enjoy ad-free streaming, early access to new episodes, and exclusive discounts on merchandise available in the Crunchyroll Store. The subscription structure includes options for individual users and families, allowing them to stream on multiple devices simultaneously. The company also engages in partnerships that enhance its content offerings, including collaborations with anime studios for exclusive titles. The diverse revenue streams from subscriptions and merchandise sales illustrate Crunchyroll's strategic approach to monetizing its extensive catalog and aligning with its user community's interests.Following its acquisition by Sony Pictures Television in December 2020, Crunchyroll aims to enhance its service offerings and expand its reach in the anime market. Current strategies include the development of new original anime titles and exclusive series, with plans for release in the coming years. The company is focusing on expanding its services into new international markets, particularly in regions such as Southeast Asia and South America, by mid-2022. The recent funding from the TRADE SALE, amounting to JPY 122.2 billion, will be used to support these initiatives, enhancing content production and market penetration efforts.

## Funding rounds

- Series A, Feb 27, 2008, $4M — Venrock

## Investors

- Venrock (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/venrock) — Series A