Pressly could be King, say investors OMERS, iNovia

After a month-long beta period, iNovia Capital and OMERS Ventures have conferred $1.5 million on Toronto-based mobile publishing platform, Pressly, which converges online content into an “immersive” tablet and smartphone oriented experience for its clients. The money will be used to expand Pressly’s 16-strong Toronto staff, help with marketing efforts, and continue development of its product.

As brands struggle with developing content for HTML5, social media and mobile platforms, Pressly has specialized in content marketing strategy, inking deals with The Economist, The Toronto Star, and various Ziff Davis publications, as well as providing branded content services for Global 2000 companies, such as IBM and Toyota.

“We know brands and publishers are looking for a platform to amplify their message on mobile devices – which is a far cry from the keyboard and mouse world. Pressly absolutely nails it with this product,” said Karamdeep Nijjar, a Principal at iNovia Capital.

The cash injection arrives just as Pressly steps out of beta mode during which it worked with 500 testers. They’re now offering a 30-day free trial to the public, with business rates fluctuating between $199 and $499.

“At OMERS Ventures we invest in companies we believe can become global leaders. We think Pressly has huge potential due to its innovative products, strong management team and continuing market traction,” said Derek Smyth, Managing Director of OMERS Ventures.

Below: CEO Jeff Brenner explains how Pressly is moving publishers into the tablet era.

_________________