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.
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