Bootstrapping, like all forms of strategy, is about being cognizant of your tradeoffs. This interview provides an inside look at the tradeoffs that Userflow made. Userflow has bootstrapped its way to $4 million in ARR with just 3 employees. The company has been extremely thoughtful about hiring, product decisions, and support, all informed by questions of financial outcomes and work/life balance.
Taking inspiration from successful bootstrappers like Basecamp, Userflow rejected the typical venture-backed path. This discussion gives insights into Userflow's techniques for efficient development and scaling while maintaining work-life balance. By bootstrapping, Userflow has been able to stay nimble and make decisions based on customers' needs rather than chasing fundraising milestones.
Esben shares the differences between his previous venture-backed company and Userflow's bootstrap mentality. He also discusses Userflow's ambitions, which center on continuing to build a great product and business rather than pursuing an exit. For any software founder considering bootstrapping, this interview offers an inside look at how Userflow has made it work.
We hope you enjoy this conversation with a new bootstrapped legend.