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Google has invested Rs. 9.54 crore (approximately USD 1.07 million) in Indian creator economy startup Rigi to become a shareholder. The investment values Rigi at about Rs. 670 crore (nearly USD 79 million) post-money as the startup expands its presence in digital content and entertainment.
According to regulatory filings reviewed by Entrackr, Rigi's board approved the allotment of 1,543 preference shares to Google at Rs. 61,796 apiece. The investment gives Google a 1.43% stake in the company.
Founded in 2021 by Swapnil Saurav and Ananya Singhal, Rigi provides a platform that helps creators, influencers, and celebrities monetize their online audiences.
The startup lets creators build paid communities on WhatsApp and Telegram, manage subscriptions, and sell digital products. These offerings include online courses and one-to-one mentorship sessions. Rigi generates revenue by charging transaction fees on these services.
The company has also expanded beyond creator monetization into digital entertainment with the launch of Rigi TV. The short-form video platform features original shows and micro-dramas and generates revenue through advertisements and in-app purchases.
Google's investment comes after a gap of more than three years in Rigi's disclosed fundraising activity. The startup last raised approximately Rs. 100 crore (around USD 12.3 million) in January 2023. Elevation Capital led the round, with participation from Accel, Stellaris Venture Partners and Sequoia Capital.
Google's entry into the shareholder base gives Rigi a strategic investor with an established presence across the internet, video, and India's creator ecosystem. The investment comes as the startup looks to strengthen its position in paid online communities and short-form entertainment.
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Rigi reported revenue of Rs. 19.92 crore and a net loss of Rs. 20.5 crore for the financial year ended March 2025. The company has not yet filed its FY26 financial results.
While the latest investment is relatively small compared with its earlier funding round, Google's backing could carry strategic significance as Rigi expands its digital content business.
For a platform focused on monetizing creator communities and short-form videos, Google's presence as an investor could offer an important association with the broader digital ecosystem.