Freelancer marketplace Backstage acquires Seattle content creation gear rental startup ShareGrid

New York-based Backstage has acquired ShareGrid, a Seattle startup that runs a marketplace for film and photo equipment rentals. The deal will boost Backstage’s freelancer marketplace and application suite for creators. Founded in 2013 by Marius Ciocirlan and Arash Shiva, ShareGrid has more than 150,000 members and is active in more than 100 cities. The Seattle startup, which raised $1.4 million to date and employs 15 people, will maintain its brand, team, and website.