PixelForce to drive global tech growth with strategic investment

Tobi Pearce, co-founder of Sweat and CEO of EzLicence, has acquired a strategic equity stake in Australian software development agency PixelForce.

The investment formalises a partnership between Pearce and PixelForce founder Hinney Lo that spans nearly a decade, dating back to the early days of Sweat, which PixelForce helped develop into a digital fitness platform reaching over 50 million users globally.

Pearce's new role as investor and strategic advisor positions PixelForce for an expanded phase focusing on new industries, larger international projects, and founder-focused initiatives. Hinney Lo, PixelForce's Founder and CEO, expressed optimism about the future impact of Pearce joining the company's leadership.

"We are thrilled to officially welcome Tobi as part of the PixelForce team. His journey scaling Sweat from Adelaide to a global brand is inspiring. Tobi's insight and experience will be invaluable to both us, and the businesses we support as we enter our next growth phase. This partnership, built on years of trust, validates PixelForce's credibility as one of Australia's top-tier development agencies. Together, we'll accelerate PixelForce's growth and empower even more tech innovators in Australia and Internationally," said Lo.

Pearce, who currently leads EzLicence, is known for his involvement in high-growth technology businesses. Sweat, which he co-founded, scaled from a simple fitness idea into an app generating more than USD $100 million in annual revenue, with a market reaching 142 countries. His current venture, EzLicence, is an online marketplace platform for driving instructors and has reportedly facilitated approximately USD $100 million in learner bookings through thousands of instructors.

Commenting on the tie-up with PixelForce, Pearce shared his reflections on the partnership and PixelForce's contribution to Sweat's growth.

"PixelForce was there from day one, helping turn a simple idea into a global product. Their expertise, belief in the vision, and ability to deliver at scale were instrumental in Sweat's success." "Hinney and his team have been trusted allies from the beginning, and this new partnership feels like a natural evolution. Together, we're backing the next wave of Australian tech talent and helping founders turn bold ideas into world-class digital products as well as adding significant technology support to existing enterprises."

Founded in 2013, PixelForce has built a reputation within Australia and abroad for producing web and mobile application solutions for both start-ups and established enterprises. As of 2024, the team counts over 60 professionals and claims industry recognition for reliability and capability in digital product development. Its project portfolio includes work for EzLicence, Flinders University, the University of Adelaide, and the Australian Energy Regulator, alongside its flagship collaboration with Sweat.

The new investment aligns with PixelForce's stated goal to accelerate growth, broaden its service offering to new sectors, and expand internationally. Pearce's investment is anticipated to facilitate this expansion, capitalising on his experience and network within the technology sector.

Both Pearce and Lo highlighted that the relationship goes beyond a financial arrangement, focusing instead on a shared vision for the Australian technology community.

"PixelForce has always been about turning ambitious ideas into reality, and having Tobi on board amplifies that mission. We're not just taking on an investor, we're gaining a partner who believes in building up the next generation of technology, just as we do," said Lo.

Looking ahead, PixelForce and Pearce are planning to launch a joint initiative aimed at supporting Australian tech-enabled businesses. The forthcoming programme will leverage PixelForce's software development experience alongside Pearce's background as an entrepreneur and advisor to over 25 businesses in the sector. Additional details regarding this initiative are expected to be released in the near future.