Duets Network Launches to Connect Early-Stage Startups

The platform links pre-seed and seed-stage startups in the creator economy with investors through a vetted, anonymous network.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Startups

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Duets Network has launched a new platform to streamline connections between early-stage startups in the creator economy and vetted investors. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Founders Cristina Pimentel and Caitlin Glazebrook have launched Duets Network to help early-stage startups in music, sports, and entertainment find investment. The platform focuses on the pre-seed and seed stages by vetting both founders and service providers before making connections.

Why it matters

Early-stage startup founders often lack access to industry-specific support, while investors struggle to efficiently find and vet compatible partners. This platform addresses those gaps by streamlining the initial networking process.

Caitlin Glazebrook brings 10 years of industry experience to the platform, including 3 years as a partner at Andreessen Horowitz. The network also supports academic and nonprofit organizations through a free Ideator tier.

The players

Cristina Pimentel

She is a co-founder of Duets Network who previously served as a founding member of the Universal Music Group Digital Innovation team.

Caitlin Glazebrook

She is a co-founder of Duets Network and a former partner at Andreessen Horowitz with a decade of venture capital and startup experience.

The details

Duets Network operates by reviewing and vetting all startups and service providers before facilitating introductions to investors. Founders and investors maintain anonymity on the platform, only revealing their identities once an investor chooses to engage with a startup.

Timeline

  1. Duets Network officially launched on October 30, 2026.

Market Landscape

The platform represents a shift away from traditional cohort-based startup incubators like 500 Global toward a more targeted, vetting-focused service. This model positions Duets Network to capture founders seeking efficient, industry-specific capital over general startup programming.

Founders seeking funding can apply for access to a vetted pool of investors while maintaining anonymity during the initial outreach phase. Universities and nonprofits also gain access to resources through the platform's free Ideator tier.

The takeaway

Founders should prioritize vetting platforms that offer industry-specific expertise rather than relying solely on general networking sites. Utilizing services that provide anonymous initial introductions can protect intellectual property while identifying interested investors.

Further reading

For more on the current environment for new companies, visit our Startups section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Music Week.

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Do you believe new online platforms make it easier for startup founders to secure necessary funding?