Introvoke

High-Level Overview

Introvoke (now Sequel.io) is a San Francisco-based technology company founded in 2019 that provides a no-code/low-code platform for building immersive virtual and hybrid events directly embedded on users' websites.[1][2][4] It serves event organizers, brands, corporations, and communities—such as those hosting conferences, career fairs, employee engagements, and startup events—by solving screen fatigue and disjointed virtual experiences through customizable tools like virtual stages, chat rooms, networking hubs, breakout rooms, polls, Q&As, and live addressing, without requiring app downloads.[1][2][4] The platform supports unlimited attendees, tight security, and hybrid formats blending physical and digital worlds, charging based on live event minutes to make it accessible for companies of all sizes; it has shown early traction via organic growth, Techstars acceleration, and a $2.7M seed round in 2021.[1][2][3][5]

Origin Story

Introvoke was founded in early 2019 by Oana Manolache (CEO), a Romanian immigrant who studied business and marketing in the UK, worked in marketing at Hewlett-Packard for seven years, and launched the company in Boston before relocating to San Francisco for venture capital.[1][5] Co-founder Andrei Ermilov is also based in Boston.[3] The idea emerged from Manolache's frustration with limited access to local startup events for global entrepreneurs and investors, validated by pitching organizations pre-launch; a major customer adopted it early.[5] Pre-COVID, the team built an MVP on coffee-fueled nights, testing with clients via WordPress plugins and APIs, achieving organic traction through startup ecosystems and Techstars Global.[1][3][5]

Core Differentiators

• Embeddable and Native Integration: Turns any website (WordPress, Squarespace, Wix, intranets) into a branded digital venue without third-party platforms, ensuring seamless, cohesive experiences.[1][2][4]
• No/Low-Code Flexibility: No-code for marketers to drive traffic and actions; low-code for developers to build sophisticated hybrid events in days, with full organizer control for unique, surprise-filled formats.[1][2][4]
• Combat Screen Fatigue: Immersive tools like pre-event networking, breakout rooms, polls, enhanced chat, and live group addressing mimic real-life interactions for unlimited attendees.[1][2]
• Hybrid Focus and Pricing: Built for post-COVID hybrid worlds (virtual, in-person, mixed); accessible pricing per live minute, plus strong security and scalability.[1][2]
• Proven Execution: Techstars graduate with $2.7M funding from Struck Capital, Comcast, and others; scrappy team praised for rapid progress and customer validation.[2][3]

Role in the Broader Tech Landscape

Introvoke rides the third wave of digital transformation in events, fueled by COVID-accelerated demand for virtual/hybrid solutions that persist beyond the pandemic, addressing market forces like remote work, global accessibility, and cloud shifts.[1][2] Its pre-COVID timing positioned it ahead of crowded competitors, enabling brands to own experiences natively rather than on disjointed platforms, boosting engagement in conferences, career fairs, and entrepreneurship ecosystems.[1][2][5] By leveling access to startup events worldwide and empowering non-technical users, it influences the ecosystem toward inclusive, blended physical-digital gatherings, with rebranding to Sequel.io signaling evolution in no-code event tech.[4]

Quick Take & Future Outlook

Introvoke (Sequel.io) is poised to capitalize on enduring hybrid event trends, expanding no-code tools for brands amid AI-driven personalization and persistent remote needs. Next steps likely include scaling developer features, global partnerships, and monetizing through enterprise adoptions, shaped by Web3 networking and metaverse integrations. Its influence could grow by defining embedded event standards, blending worlds as Manolache envisioned—transforming websites into thriving digital venues for a post-COVID future.[1][2][4]