ARK Invest Leads $20M Lucra Series B After Losing on Skillz
SKLZ•ARK Invest led a $20 million Series B in Lucra Sports despite previously divesting from Skillz at a loss. The move highlights ongoing investor interest in white-label interactive gaming platforms beyond AI-focused startups and could alter perceptions of valuation risks for esports companies like Skillz.
1. ARK’s Prior Skillz Divestment
ARK Invest took a significant loss after divesting its position in Skillz following heavy investment in the esports platform.
2. Lucra Sports Series B
Lucra Sports closed a $20 million Series B led by ARK Invest, focusing on white-label gaming competitions for businesses like Dave & Buster’s and Five Iron Golf.
3. Implications for Esports Valuations
The new funding round suggests sustained venture interest in skill-based gaming outside AI, potentially reshaping investor views on companies like Skillz.
