Google Ventures' Karim Faris said WhaleShark Media had the key characteristics the firm looks for in deals - it maps community growth and addresses "a pervasive market need".

Google’s corporate venturing unit has backed US-based voucher discount company WhaleShark Media with an undisclosed sum. 

WhaleShark Media announced the investment from Google Ventures, alongside the announcement that Brian Sharples, chief executive of HomeAway, had joined its board.

WhaleShark said it had 230 million visits to its discount sites annually.

Karim Faris, a partner at Google Ventures, said: ""WhaleShark exemplifies the key characteristics we look for in an investment — community-fueled growth and products that address a pervasive market need. For consumers, WhaleShark offers a simple way to save money online, and for retailers, a marketing vehicle to showcase discount opportunities for potential buyers. We are excited to collaborate with a company innovating in this fast-growing market."

WhaleShark is also backed by venture firms Austin Ventures and Norwest Venture Partners as well as US fund of funds Adams Street Partners.

The profile of WhaleShark’s chief executive Cotter Cunningham said the company has raised at least $150m in equity and debt in its history.