Founded this year by former AFL players James Begley and Matthew Pavlich, Launchd has positioned itself as “Australia’s largest platform for sport and entertainment talent” and builds on the pair’s success with Pickstar, the talent platform they founded in 2012.
Launchd brings together the likes of Pickstar with acquisitions including W Sports & Media, acquired in 2023, and ICMI, whose acquisition was announced in late April.
“This is a defining moment for our industry,” said Begley, Launchd’s CEO.
“By bringing ICMI into the Launchd ecosystem, we’re bridging the old world of keynote speakers with the new world of data, speed and digital influence.
“As the world accelerates toward digital engagement, the value of live, in-person experiences has never been more valuable and important.
“The acquisition of ICMI reinforces our commitment to being the one-stop destination for brands and corporates seeking impact across every channel.”
ICMI was founded by Barry Markoff in 1986 and has more than 3,000 speakers on its books. Markoff has remained ICMI’s CEO throughout this time.
“Building ICMI over nearly 40 years has been one of the great privileges of my life,” said Markoff.
“We’ve created a highly respected, profitable and resilient business – one that’s stood the test of time because of the exceptional people behind it and our deep expertise in the industry.
“When the Launchd team shared their vision for where influence and talent partnerships are heading, I knew it was the right fit. They’re bringing fresh energy, smart technology and a bold growth strategy that will take ICMI to the next level.
“I’m proud of what we’ve built – and excited to see it thrive as part of something even bigger.”
“ICMI has always been about connecting the right voice with the right audience. With Launchd, we can now offer our clients deeper insights, faster turnarounds and integrated campaign tools, while staying true to the personal service we’re known for,” said Markoff.
Through a combination of talent representation and technology, Launchd is offering a platform for end-to-end talent management, including tracking and demonstrating talent value to a campaign, brand or company.
Launchd now provides access to more than 5,000 speakers, athletes, entertainers and influencers and is involved with more than 100,000 talent activities each year.
“We’re building a single destination for impact and influence,” said Pavlich.
“Whether it’s a business expert or scientist addressing a boardroom or an Olympian fronting a digital campaign, businesses and brands want talent that moves the needle, and we’ve built the platform that makes that possible.”
The ICMI brand will remain in the marketplace under its new owners, and will be known as ICMI , powered by Launchd.
With Launchd backed by Altor Capital, which has invested millions of dollars into the venture, the young talent and tech company is planning an expansion into the UK and the USA in the near future.
