KOIO / Starstruck

BACKGROUND///

KOIO is a high-end Italian leather sneaker brand redefining luxury for the digital age. Crafted in Italy—inside a factory shared with Chanel—the brand marries heritage craftsmanship with modern accessibility, selling primarily through its own channels: online and through curated pop-ups and retail spaces. Today, 60% of KOIO’s direct sales come from the web, with the remaining 40% from in-person retail.

Known for its limited-edition drops, KOIO builds buzz through unexpected collaborations with artists, disruptors, and cultural tastemakers. To introduce the brand as a platform for creative expression, the launch campaign united three distinct collaborators and debuted on NOWNESS, the global arts and culture channel revered for spotlighting visionary work across fashion, music, design, and beyond.

Following the campaign, KOIO secured an additional $6 million in Series A funding—bringing the total to $9 million. The round was led by Founders Fund, with continued support from Acton Capital Partners, Brand Foundry, and others. With new capital and momentum, KOIO expanded into larger, high-traffic retail spaces in key markets, and now operates six stores across New York, San Francisco, Chicago, and Miami.