Brands
Frodoh partners with STAGE to bring first-screen monetisation to regional OTT
CTV-first framework will add high-attention ad placements without interrupting content
MUMBAI: AdTech company Frodoh has partnered with regional OTT platform STAGE to introduce a first-screen monetisation framework on STAGE’s OTT app, creating a new advertising layer while keeping video content free from ad interruptions.
The CTV-first technology is designed to help STAGE monetise high-attention placements within its home-screen and discovery experience. The model focuses on viewing intent, session depth and discovery behaviour on connected TV rather than inserting advertisements into content.
The framework will allow brands to reach audiences across STAGE’s language-led verticals, including Haryanvi, Rajasthani, Bhojpuri, Gujarati, Marathi, Bengali and Hindi.
STAGE CEO and co-founder Vinay Singhal said the partnership will allow the platform to explore a new monetisation layer within the discovery journey without disrupting content consumption. He added that the model could create greater value for advertisers while maintaining a seamless viewing experience.
Frodoh founder and CEO Russhabh R Thakkar said the first-screen framework is designed to help regional OTT platforms unlock high-attention advertising inventory without compromising the viewing experience.
He added that STAGE’s regional presence, combined with Frodoh’s CTV-first technology, could create a scalable monetisation layer for language-first audiences.
The companies aim to develop a scalable advertising model that brings brands closer to high-intent regional audiences while keeping STAGE’s core content experience uninterrupted.
Founded in January 2020 by Thakkar, Frodoh operates in advertising technology across connected TV, digital out-of-home and retail media. The company has focused on the CTV market since mid-2023 and is also expanding into retail media.
STAGE describes itself as a dialect-first OTT platform focused on original entertainment in Haryanvi, Rajasthani, Bhojpuri, Marathi, Gujarati and Bengali. The platform uses an in-house AI filmmaking pipeline covering the production process from story to screen, enabling it to scale content across language verticals.
