Qventures and Techstars co-lead $450,000 round for pet insurer Fluffy

London-HQed pet care app Fluffy recently banked $450,000 in pre-seed funds.

The round is being co-led by accelerator Techstars and venture capital firm QVentures,  with participation from unnamed business angels. Fluffy plans to invest in making hires across product development, marketing and customer service.

A product of Techstars' London accelerator, Fluffy's digital pet care membership is poised to roll up insurance cover for routine and unexpected medical bills and expert advice caring for pets.

The insurance platform is set to launch next month.  Pet owners, however, can download the app already to consult with Fluffy's dog training experts and vets. Weeks before go live on the rest of its product, Fluffy says its community has already signed up more than 20,000 pet parents.

Fluffy CEO Pavel Gertsberg has worked in digital growth startups previously. From 2018 to 2021, Gertsberg spearheaded growth strategy at the digital communities software platform Disciple Media, so he probably knows a thing or two about building digital engagement.

Gertsberg said: "Our goal is to give pet owners peace of mind by taking the financial burden off their shoulders in case of any medical emergency their beloved pets may have, while also supporting them with their day-to-day pet parent responsibilities."

QVentures principal, Harveer Bharaj, said: "Fluffy is aiming to redefine how pet care works, ensuring that not only do the customers save money but that they also become better pet parents in the process. "

Speaking from Techstars London's side of the deal, managing director Saalim Chowdhury said: "Watching our alumni achieve great things post-programme is always a proud feeling. The funding that Fluffy has secured will allow them to access the next step, and bring pet care to the attention of many pet owners around the UK.

"Under the guidance of Pavel and , and as a valued member of Techstars’ 2022 cohort, I am incredibly excited to see the progress of Fluffy in the future, especially with the launch of their fair pet insurance launch in February.”