Series Secures $5.1 Million in Pre-Seed Funding Led by Notable Investors
Series, an innovative social networking application, has successfully raised $5.1 million in a pre-seed funding round. Key investors include Venmo co-founder Iqram Magdon-Ismail, Pear VC, Reddit CEO Steve Huffman, and GPTZero founder Edward Tian. The company was launched in early 2022 by Yale students Nathaneo Johnson and Sean Hargrow, who are both currently seniors at the university.
A New Approach to Social Networking via iMessage
Positioning itself as a next-generation social networking platform rather than a conventional AI app, Series distinguishes itself as one of the first platforms to operate entirely through iMessage. According to CEO Nathaneo Johnson, the app is designed to redefine user connection through innovative messaging technology.
Connecting Through “Shares” in a User-Friendly Format
Users interact with Series AI by texting a designated phone number on iMessage, detailing their identity and desired connections. In response, Series AI provides “shares”—a carousel of 10 images showcasing posts from other users seeking similar connections. Each card features a photograph and a brief request, allowing users to initiate private conversations without sharing their personal numbers.
Leveraging AI for Enhanced Networking Opportunities
Johnson, who specializes in computer science and economics, is navigating a remarkable period in the tech industry characterized by rapid advancements in AI and unprecedented levels of investment. He is among a new generation of founders whose AI-oriented mindsets offer a competitive edge over established entrepreneurs seeking to adapt to these changes.
The Shift from User Interfaces to Conversational Interfaces
Johnson perceives a significant technological transformation in the industry, moving from traditional user interfaces to more conversational ones. He references the transition from Google search to AI models like ChatGPT, illustrating the shift in how users seek information—from browsing and clicking to engaging in dialogue with intelligent systems.
Roots in Entrepreneurship at Yale
The partnership between Johnson and Hargrow began during their freshman year while working on a podcast at the Yale Entrepreneurial Society. Through interviews with industry leaders, they grasped the importance of personal connections in business. This realization led them to create their own venture centered around AI as a facilitator for warm introductions.
Building Momentum and Launching Series
After refining their idea over several iterations, Johnson and Hargrow officially launched Series and actively sought funding in March 2025, growing their team to eight members in the process. Their launch strategy included creating a viral LinkedIn video just hours before announcing the app, which quickly attracted their first investor.
Expanding Beyond College Students While Focusing on Engagement
Initially targeting college students, Series has recently broadened its scope while still appealing to Gen Z and professionals. Users primarily engage for business networking, though some also utilize the app for personal connections. Johnson noted impressive user retention, with 82% of activated users remaining engaged after 30 days—surpassing early benchmarks set by Facebook.
Plans for Growth and Development on the East Coast
With the recent influx of capital, Series plans to hire additional engineers and expand its product capabilities. Despite their college commitments, Johnson and his team are committed to developing their company on the East Coast, with an operational base in Chelsea, New York. They frequently commute from New Haven, where Yale is located, reflecting a growing trend of young entrepreneurs favoring New York City over Silicon Valley.
Balancing Education and Entrepreneurship
Unlike many startup founders, both Johnson and Hargrow have chosen to remain enrolled in college. Johnson articulated that he finds fulfillment in managing both academics and entrepreneurship, asserting that there is ample time to succeed in both arenas. He believes that leveraging spare time effectively can significantly enhance one’s career trajectory.