Mode acquires JibJab for up to $29.5 million amid its consumer data roll-up spree
JibJab , the e-card and video company perhaps still best known for a viral video from the Bush-Kerry election in 2004, has been acquired by Mode , a company with a very 2026 business model: rewarding app users for sharing their data, including for AI training. The deal includes up to $29.5 million in cash and stock. Mode says the purchase marks its 11th acquisition since January 2025 and its…
Mode, a company focused on rewarding app users for sharing their data to train AI, has acquired JibJab for up to $29.5 million. JibJab, known for its viral e-cards and video content from the 2004 Bush-Kerry election, is profitable and generates tens of millions in annual revenue. Mode, which has made 11 acquisitions since January 2025, sees this deal as its largest this year.
The company plans to integrate JibJab with its rewards and monetization system, EarnOS, where users can opt-in to share data for premium access or other rewards. Mode emphasizes that user consent is always required, despite the industry's history of questionable data collection methods. This acquisition follows a growing trend of "rolling up" existing internet brands, often driven by the promise of AI-driven updates and bug fixes.
Mode's diverse portfolio includes businesses in data monetization, student apps, and photo cleanup tools, all aiming to provide premium services or rewards in exchange for consumer data. The company has raised over $120 million, and its CEO, Dan Novaes, highlights the benefits of a diverse acquisition strategy for learning and applying different playbooks.
Written by urgent.news from Fast Company's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
