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Ariel Shemesh
Co-Founder & CEO at KanduAI
Building AI-driven advertising technology through KanduAI
Last updated May 31, 2026 by the ATDb Editorial Team · Connections updated May 31, 2026
Bio
Ariel Shemesh is the Co-Founder and CEO of KanduAI, his current venture at the intersection of artificial intelligence and advertising technology. He previously co-founded Anzu.io, widely recognized as a pioneering in-game advertising platform that helped establish blended programmatic ad placements within video game environments as a legitimate, measurable channel for brands. Shemesh brings deep expertise in AdTech innovation and the evolving relationship between digital advertising and emerging media formats.
Previous Roles
Co-Founder
Anzu.io (2017-present)
Expertise
In-Game AdvertisingProgrammatic AdvertisingBrand SafetyContextual AdvertisingGaming & Esports MonetizationAdTech Platform DevelopmentAudience TargetingMobile Advertising
Notable Achievements
- Co-founded Anzu.io, the first and most widely adopted blended in-game advertising platform operating across PC, console, and mobile
- Raised multiple rounds of venture funding for Anzu, including backing from investors such as WPP, BITKRAFT, and others
- Secured partnerships with major gaming publishers and integrated Anzu with leading programmatic platforms and DSPs
- Helped establish industry measurement standards for in-game advertising in collaboration with IAB and other bodies
Awards
Anzu.io recognized in industry lists for most innovative AdTech companies
Speaking Topics
The future of in-game advertisingProgrammatic advertising in gaming environmentsBrand safety and measurement in gamingReaching Gen Z and millennial audiences through gamingConvergence of AdTech and gaming
Connections