Ocula

Investment Background

Castelnau identified an opportunity to build a technology business from the ground up, becoming a founding shareholder when Ocula launched in 2021. The investment thesis was clear: as businesses increasingly move online, the demand for sophisticated AI-driven analytics would grow significantly. Ocula was positioned to meet this need with a platform that translates complex data into practical, revenue-driving insights.

Critically, Ocula also serves a strategic role within the Castelnau portfolio. By working closely with portfolio companies such as Cambium and Hornby, Ocula refines its platform through real-world applications while simultaneously driving digital performance across the group.

Growth & Traction

Since launch, Ocula has rapidly established itself in the AI analytics space. The company's core product, Ocula Boost, is an AI-powered copywriting tool that generates optimised product titles, descriptions, and content to improve search rankings and conversion rates for e-commerce businesses. Ocula Boost has gained strong traction with both portfolio companies and high-profile external clients including AO.com, Kansas City Chiefs, and Boots. This combination of internal portfolio use and external commercial success has driven consistent growth in Annual Recurring Revenue.

In 2024, Ocula completed its Series A capital raise, securing £4 million in funding. This investment has enabled the company to expand its sales and technology teams, develop new AI-driven features, and begin scaling operations across the UK and US markets.

Castelnau's Role

As a founding investor, Castelnau has provided more than capital. The group has given Ocula access to a portfolio of businesses that serve as both clients and development partners. This symbiotic relationship allows Ocula to test and refine its technology in live commercial environments, accelerating product development while delivering tangible value to portfolio companies through enhanced digital performance.

Value Creation Strategy

The value creation opportunity lies in Ocula's ability to scale its proven platform across a growing customer base while expanding into new product areas. As businesses increasingly seek advanced AI-driven data insights to remain competitive, Ocula is well-positioned to capture a significant share of this rapidly expanding market. The combination of a strong product, growing ARR, strategic portfolio synergies, and Series A funding provides a robust foundation for continued growth.