Target Information

We are excited to announce our investment in Shakers, an innovative workforce orchestration platform revolutionizing the future of work through agile methodologies and AI integration. Founded in 2021 in Madrid by Héctor Mata, Nico de Luis, Adrián de Pedro, and Jaime Castillo, Shakers recently raised €14M in a Series A funding round. This round was led by Partech and included contributions from notable investors such as Brighteye Ventures, Athos Capital, and Wayra.

Shakers differentiates itself from traditional freelance marketplaces by addressing structural inefficiencies in the collaboration between companies and independent professionals. As the nature of work becomes progressively digital, distributed, and dynamic, Shakers is establishing the infrastructure needed to enable teams to effectively incorporate both human talent and autonomous AI agents.

Industry Overview

The freelance economy is experiencing rapid growth. Driven by digital transformation and evolving professional expectations, the European market for freelance and outsourced technology work is projected to surpass €280 billion by 2030. This surge presents a significant opportunity for platforms that can adeptly connect talent with businesses.

Despite the magnitude of the freelance market, existing systems to connect companies with skilled professionals are often outdated, fragmented, or overly transactional. Companies require improved tools to manage complex projects, while freelancers are looking for platforms that not only facilitate job placements but also support their long-term career development.

Current top freelance professionals seek autonomy, meaningful impact, and opportunities for growth. However, many traditional freelance platforms are unable to provide the necessary continuity, community engagement, and strategic resources needed. Consequently, companies face challenges in scaling freelance opportunities into sustainable long-term partnerships and in integrating this flexible workforce within their core operations.

Shakers is uniquely positioned to address these challenges by creating advanced, AI-powered orchestration solutions. The platform moves beyond simple matching functions to assist businesses in forming specialized teams comprised of both tech professionals and AI agents aimed at navigating intricate, long-term projects.

Rationale Behind the Deal

Our decision to invest in Shakers is rooted in our belief that the platforms that will define the forthcoming decade are those that empower individuals to perform their best work collaboratively and purposefully. Shakers exemplifies this principle through a timely and necessary approach to workforce orchestration.

As companies reassess their engagement strategies with talent and as AI technologies become increasingly integrated into everyday operations, Shakers is uniquely positioned to lead the transition towards a flexible and human-centered future of work.

Investor Information

Kfund is proud to support forward-thinking companies that disrupt traditional industry models and harness innovative technologies. By investing in Shakers, we affirm our commitment to backing those who are reshaping the freelance landscape, fostering an ecosystem where independence and innovation coexist in harmony.

As part of our strategy, we aim to provide not only financial support but also strategic guidance to help elevate Shakers to its full potential as the leading platform for workforce orchestration in the freelance sector.

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Shakers represents a compelling investment opportunity, offering a robust solution to the evolving challenges faced by both freelancers and companies. Their innovative approach effectively addresses the disconnect in traditional platforms, promising sustainable growth and longevity in an expanding freelance market.

Furthermore, the founders' impressive backgrounds from established firms such as Jobandtalent, Rocket Internet, Wise, and Uber enhances our confidence in their capability to execute Shakers' ambitious vision. They are meticulously constructing an ecosystem that prioritizes the financial stability of freelancers, fostering loyalty crucial for long-term success.

The blend of cutting-edge technology and a clear commitment to enhancing user experience positions Shakers to capture a significant market share. Given the rapid growth of the freelance economy and the increasing reliance on AI solutions, we are optimistic about Shakers’ future and its potential to redefine the workforce landscape.

In conclusion, we believe that investing in Shakers was not only timely but represents a strategic alignment with the trends shaping the future of work. Their vision for a collaborative, flexible, and AI-enhanced working environment is aligned with emerging market needs, paving the way for substantial returns in the years ahead.

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