Brynn Putnam, the visionary founder behind Mirror, has secured $20 million in new funding for her latest startup, Board. The company’s flagship product, a $399 24-inch touchscreen encased in a wood-finish frame, bridges the gap between traditional tabletop play and digital interactivity by utilizing proprietary technology to detect physical game pieces.
Rapid Adoption and Market Traction
Since its launch, Board has seen significant market penetration. The device is currently integrated into tens of thousands of homes, hospitals, schools, and restaurants across all 50 states. Data from the company indicates strong user retention, with 85% of customers engaging in 30 or more play sessions every month.
Integrating AI into Game Design
Alongside the fresh capital injection, the company unveiled Board Studio. Scheduled for release later this year, this AI-powered platform aims to democratize game development. By using natural language prompts, creators can transform concepts into playable prototypes in less than an hour.
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A Proven Track Record
This round builds upon a previous $15 million investment led by venture firm Lerer Hippeau. The firm previously backed Putnam’s fitness startup, Mirror, leading its $3 million seed round—a strategic move that yielded substantial returns when Lululemon acquired the company in 2020.
From Personal Fitness to Social Connection
Putnam views Board as a natural evolution of the hardware expertise she gained at Mirror. While Mirror focused on individual performance and self-improvement, Board shifts the narrative toward community and interpersonal relationships. The product is designed around a simple yet compelling premise: utilizing technology to encourage people to disconnect from isolated screens and engage face-to-face.
The Resurgence of Consumer Tech
The funding arrives as consumer hardware begins to regain favor with investors, catalyzed by the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence. Ben Lerer, managing partner at Lerer Hippeau, noted that the current landscape is ripe for innovation. “We’re seeing a very high-quality group of founders saying, ‘Now’s the time to get back in the pool.’ There are things that are possible today that weren’t possible six months ago or a year ago, and the slope is steep,” Lerer stated.
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