AI-Powered Start-Up PlayAIO Secures Milestone Investment
In a milestone event, data-driven AI start-up PlayAIO raised significant funding from Astralis Capital via its fund, Astralis Fund I. Equally important, it is the first time this company has entered a new gaming incubation strategy, underlining the substantial potential of PlayAIO. With more promising start-ups embracing AI technology, the gambling sector may soon enter a new era.
New Funding Will Bolster Strategic Initiatives
PlayAIO, founded in 2023 by Josh Gibbs, a seasoned expert with experience from Kambi and Strive Gaming in customer data leadership roles, has made impressive strides in the industry. The company launched in May 2024 and has rapidly built a robust customer base. The initial launches have been smooth and well-received by their clients, signaling a promising start.
PlayAIO CEO Joshua Gibbs noted that the new support from Astralis would be instrumental in advancing the company’s rapid growth plans as it aims to become an industry leader. He remained confident in PlayAIO’s business model, highlighting the untapped potential data could bring to any organization, and remained optimistic regarding its prospects.
With Astralis Capital, it has been a truly synergistic partnership. I couldn’t think of a better way to start a business.
Joshua Gibbs, PlayAIO CEO
Astralis Capital’s incubation strategy brings immense value to new and seasoned founders by delivering investment combined with strategic and operational support, including market entry and partnership development. Historically, Astralis Capital has had great success in investments across iGaming and sports with notable companies such as PrizePicks, SGG Media, Takes, Inc., and Strive Gaming.
AI Technology Will Become Increasingly Relevant
PlayAIO’s business model revolves around providing operators with advanced AI-driven solutions, helping them delve deep into their data, uncovering patterns, trends, and correlations that can influence critical decision-making, driving growth and innovation. Machine learning and advanced analytics give PlayAIO a definitive edge over the competition, giving customers precise and actionable real-time insights.
Astralis Capital co-managing partner Evan Meyer expressed his confidence in PlayAIO, highlighting how the start-up’s strategy closely followed other successful projects. He noted that a clear vision, execution plan, and technical know-how were instrumental in fully utilizing Machine Learning and data analytics in a developing iGaming and online sports betting market.
We’ve been incredibly impressed by the pipeline of potential client discussions, new customer uptake, and smooth launches thus far.
Evan Meyer, Astralis Capital co-managing partner
According to PlayAIO, very few companies possess the internal technology and the ability to adapt to the evolving industry trends surrounding AI. The company expects that the data market in iGaming will experience a revolution in the coming years, perfectly positioning its offerings for continued growth and setting the stage for PlayAIO to become a leader in the field.
DraftKings Prepares to Launch Sports Betting in Washington DC
DraftKings confirmed its intention to tackle Washington DC’s refreshed betting market. The American betting giant announced that it plans to launch its cutting-edge online sportsbook in the US capital, pending licensure and regulatory approvals.
DraftKings Joined Forces with DC United to Launch in DC
The arrival comes in the wake of an agreement with DC United, which paved the way for DraftKings’ operation in The District of Columbia. The leading operator added that Washington DC would be the 29th jurisdiction in North America where its sports betting products are available.
In its official announcement, DraftKings praised Washington DC’s burgeoning sports and sports betting sectors, highlighting the presence of many professional teams across America’s biggest sporting leagues. The many sports aficionados in the district, the company added, would soon be able to increase their betting excitement through the operator’s best-in-class products.
Among other things, players in the US capital will be able to enjoy same-game parlays, in-game betting and special odds boosts. Customers will be able to download the DraftKings Sportsbook app and see what the fuss is all about for themselves.
DraftKings has an extensive presence in sports and just minted a deal with the WNBA.
In addition, DraftKings vowed to offer gambling responsibly, in line with its social responsibility commitments. This means that players will be able to enjoy robust protections and state-of-the-art responsible gambling tools and self-exclusion products. Thanks to DraftKings’ My Stat Sheet, players will be able to see how much they play and determine whether they need to moderate their behavior.
DraftKings’ commitments to sustainability are further highlighted by its AGA membership and support of the association’s Have A Game Plan. Bet Responsibly campaign.
DraftKings Is Looking Forward to Launching in the US Capital
Matt Kalish, president of DraftKings North America, praised the ongoing growth of the wagering sector and his company’s expansion. With its products available in more than half the country, DraftKings remains at the helm of the US betting market. The company is furthermore excited about the opportunity to enter the DC betting market and reach even more American players.
We would like to thank the D.C. Council for creating a path to bring DraftKings’ top-rated sportsbook to the nation’s capital. Together with D.C. United, we look forward to delivering fans a best-in-class experience through our customer-friendly product.
Matt Kalish, president, DraftKings NA
Danita Johnson, DC United’s president of business operations, added that DraftKings is a valued partner her team is looking forward to working with.
Our goal is to always make every fan experience seamless, and this platform will help us to deliver on that promise.
Danita Johnson, president of business operations, DC United
Washington DC’s sports betting market was, until recently monopolized by GambetDC. After the platform failed to appeal to local players, however, the district opted to liberalize its wagering market and welcome more operators.
