Hopster closes ‘multi-million pound’ investment round

Pre-school entertainment and learning app, Hopster, has closed a multi-million pound funding round led by existing investor, Sony Pictures Television Networks (SPTN).

While details of the raise were not disclosed, Hopster founder and CEO, Nick Walters, said the company will use the money to “keep doing what we pledged: provide a safe, ad-free and nurturing digital environment for preschoolers.”

Executive vice president of Sony Pictures Television’s Western Europe International Networks division, Kate Marsh, said SPTN’s investment in Hopster compliments its growing kids’ portfolio.

“We recognise digital is a crucial element to our business, particularly in the kids’ market where tablets are the choice of device for our audience,” she said.

Sony Picture Television Networks initially took a minority stake in Hopster in October 2016 and holds a seat on the company’s board. Its existing kids brands include POP, Tiny Pop, POP MAX and POP FUN.