Viadeo operates a professional social network (branded Tianji in China) that emphasizes a multi-local approach tailored to business and cultural needs in each market. The service offers networking, reputation-building, and business discussion features for professionals. The company reports 45 million registered users globally, with about 10 million members on Tianji in China and an average Tianji user age of 30. Viadeo has focused on expanding internationally through localized sites and partnerships, including a joint venture in Russia with Sanoma. The company says the new funding will be used to grow its business in Europe and China and to expand into other emerging markets such as Latin America, India, Africa and Russia. Viadeo is a professional business social network that competes with LinkedIn and Xing and offers member profiles, social features and a premium tier. The site reports about 8.5 million members, with roughly 70% of members outside France. The company has pursued API and OpenSocial integrations and is building a suite of apps (including Google Docs, Flickr and YouTube integrations), plus planned features such as in-platform tweeting and an iPhone app. Viadeo has struck a global partnership to appear on Microsoft’s Live platform and is using the API work to stream content from third-party partners. Product work also included a recent site redesign to improve the interface and navigation. The company is positioning to expand in emerging markets such as China, India and Mexico and exploring growth via potential acquisitions.

Total raised

$37M

Funding rounds

2

Latest round

Equity

Latest activity

Apr 2012