Mark Cuban Bets on Human Connection with Investment in Live Events Company

In a move that has raised eyebrows across the tech and investment communities, billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban, a well-known advocate for artificial intelligence, has made a significant investment in Burwoodland, a company specializing in producing live nightlife experiences. This decision marks a departure from the prevalent trend of investing in AI startups and instead emphasizes the growing importance of tangible, human-centered interactions.

Cuban, who has previously lauded AI as the "ultimate time-saving hack" and warned that those not engaging with the technology are "f---ed," has now channeled an undisclosed sum into Burwoodland, becoming a minority owner. Founded in 2015 by Alex Badanes and Ethan Maccoby, the New York City-based firm is responsible for popular themed events such as Emo Night Brooklyn, Gimme Gimme Disco, All Your Friends, and Broadway Rave, which span across the U.S., Canada, and Europe, drawing in over 1.5 million ticket buyers to date.

Cuban articulated his rationale in a statement: "It’s time we all got off our asses, left the house, and had fun." He further elaborated on the creators' ability to "create amazing memories and experiences that people plan their weeks around," asserting that "In an AI world, what you do is far more important than what you prompt." This sentiment echoes Cuban's prior observations, notably his prediction from last June that the proliferation of AI, particularly AI video, would lead to an "explosion of f2f [face-to-face] engagement, events, and jobs" as people seek authenticity amidst digital saturation.

Burwoodland exemplifies this philosophy, orchestrating over 1,200 shows annually. The company boasts strategic partnerships with notable figures in the music industry, including Izzy Zivkovic, founder of artist management company Split Second, and concert promoter Peter Shapiro. Klaf Companies, an investment and advisory platform established by Justin Kalifowitz, also lends its support.

Alex Badanes, co-founder of Burwoodland, shared his perspective: "Ethan and I started this company because we know firsthand how powerful it is to find your people through the music you love. That sense of community shaped our lives, and creating spaces where others can feel that connection has always been our purpose." He expressed gratitude for Cuban's "confidence as an investor as respected and accomplished as Mark."

In an era where concert ticket prices are often prohibitive, Burwoodland differentiates itself by maintaining accessible entry fees, typically ranging from $20 to $40, with some events priced higher. The company has already secured bookings for 2026 in international and domestic cities such as Milan, Brooklyn, Louisville, Nashville, and Antwerp. Its upcoming Long Live Emo Fest at Brooklyn’s Paramount theater, with a capacity of 2,700 patrons, is scheduled for later this month.

The success of Burwoodland's events has even seen artists from the genres they celebrate making appearances, with some even taking to the stage. The company's origins are rooted in the personal experiences of its founders, who began by hosting house parties in college that eventually outgrew their living spaces, leading them to rent out a bar and subsequently establish Burwoodland. The duo transitioned to working on the startup full-time in 2022.

This investment in Burwoodland arrives at a time of growing investor interest in the live event sector. Last June, live entertainment discovery platform Fever secured $100 million in funding, and in September, DJ/producer Kygo's company Palm Tree Crew received a $20 million Series B investment. According to reporting by Inc., this strategic investment by Mark Cuban could be a defining move for the industry in 2026, highlighting the enduring appeal of real-world, community-driven experiences.