Series, an innovative social networking application, has successfully raised a remarkable $5.1 million in pre-seed funding. The investment round features prominent backers, including Venmo co-founder Iqram Magdon-Ismail, Pear VC, Reddit CEO Steve Huffman, and GPTZero founder Edward Tian. Founded by Yale seniors Nathaneo Johnson and Sean Hargrow, Series aims to redefine social interaction through iMessage.
Unlike typical AI applications, Series positions itself as a next-generation social networking platform. According to CEO Johnson, the platform operates entirely within iMessage, allowing users to connect seamlessly. Users simply text a designated phone number (Series AI), describing their interests and desired connections. In response, Series AI provides a selection of "shares"--a carousel of ten images showcasing posts from other users seeking similar connections. Each carousel card displays a user's photo and request, enabling private conversations without disclosing personal phone numbers.
Johnson, who studies computer science and economics, is part of a burgeoning wave of young entrepreneurs leveraging AI from the outset. Investors note that this AI-first mindset offers a distinct advantage over older founders who are adapting to new technologies. Johnson believes the industry is transitioning from traditional user interfaces to conversational ones, akin to the shift from Google search to platforms like ChatGPT, enhancing the way users find information.
The partnership between Johnson and Hargrow began during their freshman year while working on a podcast for the Yale Entrepreneurial Society. Through interviews with successful founders and CEOs, they recognized the importance of warm connections, which inspired them to create a business centered around AI as a facilitator for these connections.
After refining their concept over several iterations, they initiated fundraising in March 2025, assembling a team of eight. Their viral LinkedIn video launch, created spontaneously, garnered immediate attention and led to their first investor meeting just days later.
While Series initially focused on college students, it has expanded its reach to include Gen Z and professionals. The platform is primarily utilized for business networking, although some users have adopted it for dating and friendship. Johnson reports that Series is active on over 750 college campuses, boasting an impressive 82% retention rate among users after 30 days--surpassing early benchmarks set by Facebook.
The newly acquired funds will facilitate the hiring of additional engineers and the enhancement of product features. Following graduation, the team plans to remain on the East Coast, operating from their Chelsea office in New York City, which they frequently commute to from New Haven, Connecticut.
Johnson expresses confidence in their decision to stay in New York, reflecting a broader trend of young founders favoring this vibrant city over Silicon Valley. Importantly, both he and Hargrow have chosen to continue their studies while managing their startup, demonstrating that academic commitments and entrepreneurship can coexist successfully.
"Utilizing your extra time wisely can propel you toward your true aspirations," Johnson emphasizes, encouraging others to embrace opportunities beyond conventional obligations.
