Prague-based startup ValkaAI has secured €12 million in pre-seed funding to develop a real-time, interactive AI video platform.
The round was led by Rockaway Ventures, with participation from J&T Ventures, Tensor Ventures, BD Partners, and Fond Naše Česko. The investment ranks among the largest pre-seed rounds in Central and Eastern Europe and represents a strategic bet on next-generation AI-driven media infrastructure.
From Esports Data To Interactive AI Video
ValkaAI was founded by Vlastimil Venclík and Miloš Lokajíček.
Venclík previously built Oddin.gg, an esports data and predictive technology company that became one of Central Europe’s fastest-growing tech firms, topping the Deloitte Technology Fast 50 Central Europe ranking in 2024. Lokajíček, who serves as COO, brings operational experience in scaling technology and AI products globally.
From inception, ValkaAI has operated with an international footprint, establishing teams across the United States, Europe, and the United Arab Emirates. The company’s ambition is to develop a globally competitive AI video platform rooted in the Czech Republic.
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Turning Video Into An Interactive Interface
ValkaAI’s core thesis is that video will evolve from a passive format into an interactive medium that adapts to users in real time.
Instead of static, linear playback, the company envisions digital environments where users can engage dynamically with AI-powered avatars and content that responds instantly to context and behavior.
The platform aims to enable businesses to deploy fully controllable digital characters capable of real-time, personalized interaction at scale. This could reduce production costs associated with live content while enabling deeper audience engagement.
Initial Focus On Sports And Esports
Early applications are expected in sports and esports, where ValkaAI plans to develop AI commentators and digital personalities that react live to gameplay and audience input.
According to the founders, the technology is designed to balance high visual fidelity with real-time responsiveness, enabling localized and personalized broadcasts tailored to specific audiences.
Rockaway Ventures General Partner Petr Šmíd stated that the company is addressing a technically demanding challenge by combining visual quality with true interactivity. He emphasized the importance of founder-market fit and Venclík’s track record in building global technology businesses.
Building Core Infrastructure For Real-Time AI Media
The €12 million funding will be allocated toward expanding research and product development teams, advancing the underlying technology for real-time digital avatars, scaling computational infrastructure, and launching early commercial pilots in sports and esports.
Investors highlighted the scale of the round relative to the region, reflecting confidence in both the team and the long-term potential of interactive AI video as a new category.
ValkaAI positions itself as a foundational technology company rather than a single-application startup, aiming to create an infrastructure layer for interactive digital experiences.
About ValkaAI
ValkaAI, part of the Realms Group, develops real-time AI video technology focused on interactive digital avatars and dynamic content environments. Headquartered across San Francisco, Prague, and Dubai, the company employs approximately 45 specialists, including researchers with experience at Meta and DeepMind. Its long-term vision is to build a platform that enables audiences to actively shape and personalize digital content in real time.
