Zealot Networks, a digital-first media company and accelerator, launched Monday after securing $25 million in initial funding.

Investors include President and Chief Executive Danny Zappin, formerly of Maker Studios, as well as 15 former and current Maker Studios employees. After being ousted from his chief executive role at Maker last year, Zappin, along with three other former execs, filed a lawsuit to block a shareholder vote on Walt Disney Co.’s acquisition of the multichannel network provider. The deal, worth up to $950 million, was completed in March.

Zealot, which will be located in Venice, aims to support creative entrepreneurs and talent by delivering multi-platform revenue, distribution and growth opportunities.

“With Zealot, I’m pursuing my greater vision of empowering creative individuals with a new focus on entrepreneurs, distribution and emerging platforms,” Zappin said in a statement. “We’re operating in multiple passion-based verticals, building zealous audiences and providing services for companies, brands and talent across multiple platforms to help them realize their business visions and creative passions.”

Staff reporter Melissah Yang can be reached at [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter @MelissahYang for the latest in L.A. tech news.