Former Maker Studios CEO Sets Up New Digital Media Venture

LOS ANGELES: Danny Zappin, co-founder and former CEO of Maker Studios, has raised $25 million in funding to launch Zealot Networks, a digital media company.

The company is positioned as a "digital-first" media outfit and growth accelerator aiming to empower creative entrepreneurs and talent, delivering multiplatform revenue, distribution and growth opportunities. Investors in the initial $25 million funding round include Zappin, along with more than 15 former and current Maker Studios employees, talent and members of the management team. The funding will support operations, acquisitions and investments.

Zappin, the president and CEO of Zealot, commented: "With Zealot, I'm pursuing my greater vision of empowering creative individuals with a new focus on entrepreneurs, distribution and emerging platforms. We're operating in multiple passion-based verticals, building zealous audiences and providing services for companies, brands and talent across multiple platforms to help them realize their business visions and creative passions."