Whatnot, a live commerce marketplace, reached one billion orders as of June 2026, marking a major milestone since its launch in 2020. The company recently raised $225 million in a Series F funding round, boosting its valuation to $11.5 billion, according to fortune.com. This growth reflects a surge in user activity and market traction over the past six years.
The platform began with cofounder Grant LaFontaine selling Funko Pops during a livestream in July 2020, generating $5,000 in sales within hours. Since then, Whatnot has expanded its offerings to include a wide range of products such as Star Wars merchandise, designer handbags, and even fresh fish. Over the last year, the company added more than 20 million new accounts, with first-time buyers increasing by 285%, the report said.
Whatnot's growth underscores the rising popularity of live commerce, a sector blending e-commerce with live video streaming. The $11.5 billion valuation places Whatnot among the most valuable startups in this space. The platform's ability to attract diverse sellers and buyers distinguishes it from traditional e-commerce sites, aligning it with other rapidly scaling marketplaces that leverage real-time engagement to drive sales.
The recent Series F round, completed in October, is a key factor behind Whatnot's expansion and user acquisition. The company’s milestone of one billion orders highlights its scale and market presence, positioning it as a significant player in live commerce as of mid-2026.