Human-friendly startup Kartel.ai raises $2M to blend AI workflows with embodied creativity

Kartel.ai, a Beverly Hills-based startup, has emerged from stealth with $2 million in early funding and a human-centric AI production platform that promises to streamline creative media production. The company’s approach combines AI-enhanced workflow orchestration with vetted human talent, targeting the growing demand for faster, cost-effective content creation across brands, studios, and agencies.

How it works: Kartel operates as a full-stack production platform that matches projects with curated artists through an AI-powered intake system.

• Clients can call a dedicated number (1-838-NEW-IDEA) to discuss projects, with AI generating creative briefs in real-time and matching jobs to appropriate artists.
• The platform manages the entire workflow from concept to delivery, with AI-savvy directors overseeing production.
• Projects are completed in days rather than weeks, with the system designed to eliminate traditional production bottlenecks without removing human creativity.

The founding team: The startup is led by experienced executives from finance, gaming, and media backgrounds.

• Co-founder Luke Peterson brings startup experience and previously served as managing director at Wells Fargo, a major U.S. bank.
• Chief Strategy Officer Ben Kusin formerly ran AI-first consultancy Visionairy and held executive roles in gaming and media.
• VP of Marketing Estefania Guarderas transitioned from producing reality TV at Bravo to mastering generative AI tools.

Real-world results: Early client feedback suggests the platform is delivering on its speed and quality promises.

• Kevin Miller, CEO of NoLogo.com, reported receiving a full TV advertisement within two days of minimal direction: “I had no idea this kind of turnaround was possible without compromising the creative.”
• During a demonstration, the author received a fully produced spot for an XR glasses client that was approved immediately by the client.
• The company claims to have more than 100 opportunities in its pipeline and is currently executing multiple agency deals.

Beyond production services: Kartel operates a Santa Monica studio focused on original IP development and technology testing.

• The studio serves as a proving ground for volumetric capture (3D video recording technology), real-time motion systems, and other emerging technologies.
• Recent projects include a concept film for a fashion brand created in five days using only clothing sample photos.
• The client reportedly told Kartel: “This is my vision, and now it’s real.”

What they’re saying: Industry professionals emphasize the platform’s respect for human creativity within AI-enhanced workflows.

• “Kartel knows that these tools are nothing without the humans behind them. And the whole system reflects that,” said Matt Zien, film and television producer and founder of KNGMKR Labs.
• Peterson clarified that Kartel isn’t just a directory but “a full production stack with AI tooling layered into every stage of the workflow.”

What’s next: The company is preparing for a larger funding round later this year to support its next growth phase, with Peterson indicating that additional capital will be needed to scale operations.