Story of Startup Open: wellness company blending studios and digital content for mindfulness and fitness, raising $14.5M
Story of Startup Open:
Raed Khawaja is the co-founder and CEO of Open, a
modern wellness company that blends physical studios with digital platforms.
His mission is to make well-being a shared and accessible practice, not just a
luxury for a few.
A New Approach to Wellness
Open was designed to offer more than exercise. It brings
together breathwork, meditation, yoga, and Pilates in one ecosystem,
creating experiences that strengthen both the mind and body. The idea was to
provide people with tools for long-term well-being rather than temporary fixes.
The San Francisco Beginning
Headquartered in San Francisco, California, Open
quickly became known for merging ancient wisdom with modern science. Its goal
has always been clear: help people slow down, connect with themselves, and
practice mindfulness together.
Building a Hybrid Ecosystem
Since launching in 2020, Open created a hybrid model
of in-person classes and an app. Whether online or offline, beginners and
advanced practitioners could access high-quality guidance. This approach
allowed the company to meet people wherever they were.
Technology Meets Wellness
At the heart of Open’s model is proprietary technology.
Its app features immersive audio and video content, live chats, group
meditation sessions, and even the option to turn on cameras to feel more
connected. This tech-driven design transformed wellness into a community
experience.
Expanding the Practice
Open’s classes are carefully built to engage the senses.
Teachers integrate breathwork techniques that regulate the nervous
system and deepen the mind-body connection. For many, this provided a gateway
into meditation that previously felt out of reach.
Fueling Growth Through Funding
To bring this vision to life, Open secured strong investor
backing. The company raised $5.5 million in a Seed round and later
closed a $9 million Series A, totaling $14.5 million. Investors
included Founders Fund, A. Capital Ventures, Susa Ventures, and Aglaé Ventures,
backed by Groupe Arnault.
Story of Startup Open: wellness company blending studios and digital content for mindfulness and fitness, raising $14.5M#startup#age#net worth#investo
New Investors Join In
As Open grew, it continued to attract interest from
high-profile investors like Lucas Venture Group, Open Venture Capital, and
Dawn Capital. Their support pushed the company to a Series A total of
$16.4 million, strengthening its path forward.
A Unique Philosophy
Raed and his team often repeat the company’s simple mission:
“Be present, together.” Open wants to democratize wellness by ensuring
that collective well-being becomes part of everyday life for everyone,
everywhere.
Recognition from Leaders
Prominent investors and leaders have praised Open’s unique
content, especially its breathwork programs. They view it as a platform
that offers a flexible yet holistic approach, one that adapts to users’
immediate needs while offering depth for long-term practice.
Shaping the Wellness Movement
Open’s rise reflects a broader cultural shift. People are
moving away from quick fixes like crash diets or detoxes, and toward
meaningful, sustainable practices. Open became a symbol of this shift by
focusing on habits, community, and consistency.
A Personal Reflection
Raed often shares how wellness is shaped by environment and
pace of life. For example, moving from a high-speed city like Mumbai to a
calmer place such as Dehradun revealed the power of slowing down, appreciating
small actions, and finding well-being in everyday choices.
Looking to the Future
Today, Open is not just a company but a movement in
wellness culture. By combining technology, community, and holistic
practices, it has positioned itself as a leader in modern mindfulness. The
journey is still unfolding, but the foundation is strong—rooted in connection,
presence, and accessibility.
Timeline of Open’s Journey
- 2020
– Open launches in San Francisco, blending studios with digital classes.
- 2020
– Raises $5.5M Seed funding to build its platform.
- 2021
– Closes $9M Series A, reaching $14.5M total raised.
- 2021–2022
– Expands hybrid offerings: in-person Venice studio + immersive app
experiences.
- 2022
– Adds new investors like Lucas Venture Group, Dawn Capital, and Open
Venture Capital.
- 2023
– Total Series A funding grows to $16.4M.
- 2023–2024
– Introduces new features: live chats, camera-on classes, guest passes for
friends.
- 2024–2025
– Becomes a cultural symbol of the global wellness shift, inspiring
millions to “be present, together.”
