Cheehoo
Category: Generative Media (Image / Video)
An AI-enabled creative engine platform designed to help artists and studios accelerate animation production while retaining full artistic control. Cheehoo was founded in 2024. The company is led by Michael LoFaso. Based in Los Angeles, California, USA (inferred from strong Hollywood connections). Team size: N/A. Total funding raised: $10 Million. Latest round: $10 Million Seed/Launch round (Announced April 2024). Key investors include Greycroft.
- Founded
- 2024
- Headquarters
- Los Angeles, California, USA (inferred from strong Hollywood connections)
- Team size
- N/A
- Total funding
- $10 Million
Value proposition
Streamlines animation production by enabling rapid prototyping and iterative design while integrating with existing workflows and preserving artistic control through toggleable AI features
Products and solutions
AI animation platform, In-house AI models for character and asset creation, Integration with third-party AI models (e.g., OpenAI, Runway), Capability for partners to build custom AI models
Unique value
Merges veteran Hollywood production and animation expertise with Silicon Valley AI/ML research, focusing on augmenting artist workflows instead of complete automation.
Target customer
Animation creators, artists, IP holders, brands, studios, and streamers
Industries served
Entertainment (Animation), Media
Technology advantage
Hybrid AI approach combining proprietary and third-party models, deep industry networks from founding team’s backgrounds (e.g., Rideback, DreamWorks), and customizable platform capabilities for partners.
How they differentiate
Focuses on integrating seamlessly into professional animation workflows, maintaining creative control, leveraging strong Hollywood connections, and enabling development of custom AI models for partners.
Main competitors
Pika Labs, Runway ML, Cartwheel, Cinamon
Key partnerships
Strategic collaboration with Rideback, Partnerships with undisclosed streamers, studios, brands, and IP rightsholders
Notable customers
Undisclosed streamers, studios, and brands
Major milestones
Company launch in 2024 Secured $10 Million in funding from Greycroft in 2024
Growth metrics
Not specified
Market positioning
Positioned as a premium AI tool for professional animation studios and creators aiming for efficiency without compromising artistic vision
Geographic focus
Global, with an initial focus on North America/Hollywood
Patents and IP
Not specified; no publicly disclosed patents as of now
About Michael LoFaso
Michael LoFaso is a serial entrepreneur and media/tech executive with a background in investment banking, venture capital, and production. He is the Co-CEO of production company Rideback and holds an MBA from Harvard Business School.
Official website: https://www.cheehoo.com/