Series, a new AI-powered social networking platform, has raised $3 million in pre-seed funding to revolutionize how college students connect online. Founded by Yale juniors Nathaneo Johnson and Sean Hargrow, the platform moves away from traditional metrics like likes and followers, emphasizing meaningful, mutual-value relationships.
The funding round, led by Parable—a venture fund created by former a16z investor Anne Lee Skates—closed in just 14 days after a teaser video went viral within the college startup community.Unlike mainstream platforms that thrive on vanity metrics, Series uses AI Friends embedded in iMessage to make warm, double opt-in introductions between students.
Each AI Friend learns from user input and autonomously suggests connections based on shared interests and goals. The platform requires a .edu email, creating a trusted space where students can build a minimalist profile and receive curated introductions without the pressures of social media popularity.
Series originated from a podcast hosted by the founders, which evolved into a viral chatbot used by students at Yale and Princeton. Since its soft launch, the platform has already processed over 32,000 messages through its AI Friends. Early users have hailed the platform’s natural feel, often forgetting they were interacting with an AI and not a real person. This innovative approach is helping users host events, build entrepreneurial networks, and access opportunities that would otherwise rely on social clout.
Looking to the future, Series plans to expand beyond universities into sectors like finance, education, healthcare, and dating—areas where trust and authentic connection are key. The company envisions building the world’s largest warm network, powered by AI Friends acting as personal connectors. According to Johnson, the long-term goal is to put “a well-connected friend in your pocket,” rebuilding social connection with a focus on trust, relevance, and real-world value.