StoreEase Virtual Management, which operates self-storage facilities and offers an online third-party management platform, has received a seed investment led by New York-based investment-management firm Bienville Capital Management LLC. StoreEase will use the money to expand its virtual offering and launch a software-as-a-service (SaaS) model later this year, according to a press release.

Launched in 2019, the StoreEase virtual model is designed to replicate the experience of in-person, onsite management, including interaction with a live, remote manager who proactively greets and assists customers when they walk through the door. The SaaS product will be targeted at independent self-storage operators, who’ll be able to license the technology, the release stated.

“Our focus from day one has been to create a first-class experience for our customers at the facility level that reproduces the experience at the best operated facilities in the world,” said StoreEase CEO Josh Boyd. “When someone needs self-storage, it’s usually because of a stressful life event. Having a live person on site to provide high-touch service during their time of need is a pillar of our mission and technology platform.”

“StoreEase has brought together a unique team, combining experienced software developers on the West Coast with industry veterans in the Southeast. It is an exciting example of technology fueling real estate investment opportunities in a large and growing asset class,” said Brandon Pilot, a partner with Bienville.

Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, StoreEase acquires, develops and oversees self-storage facilities. It operates 28 properties in eight states and expects to add up to 75 locations this year. Its virtual-management platform offers tools to automate self-storage operations including 2 Minute Move-In, DemoSuites, Smart Environment, Virtual Assistant, Virtual Counter, Virtual Manager and Virtual Terminals.

Founded in 2008, Bienville invests across public and private markets as well as cryptocurrency. It has $3.4 billion in assets under management, according to the company website.