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Conversation
Highlights
Welcome to another episode of Unicorn Builders. In today’s episode, we’re speaking with Oren Kaniel, CEO & Co-Founder of AppsFlyer, a mobile attribution and marketing analytics platform that has raised over $300 Million in funding.
Here are the most interesting points from our conversation:
- Inception of AppsFlyer: Oren shared how his first experience with an iPhone in 2011 led him to realize the potential of mobile technology, sparking the idea behind AppsFlyer.
- Early Days and Challenges: He discussed the early challenges of convincing people about the growth potential of mobile, especially in a market still dominated by desktop and Blackberry users.
- Focus on Data Privacy: From the beginning, AppsFlyer was built with a strong emphasis on data privacy, which Oren recognized as a critical need for the future of mobile marketing.
- Bootstrapping Before Funding: Oren mentioned how the company was bootstrapped for its first few years, which instilled a strong discipline in the team and shaped the company’s culture.
- Navigating Fundraising: The fundraising journey wasn’t straightforward. Oren shared key insights into how they strategically positioned AppsFlyer to attract significant venture capital investment.
- Building a Global Presence: Oren emphasized the importance of thinking globally from day one, highlighting how AppsFlyer expanded its operations to over 20 offices worldwide, ensuring a strong local presence in key markets.
Actionable
Takeaways
Identify Market Shifts Early:
Oren’s realization of the iPhone's potential in 2011 was a pivotal moment that led to the creation of AppsFlyer. Founders should constantly monitor technological shifts and emerging trends, as these can reveal new opportunities for innovation and market entry.
Prioritize Data Privacy from the Start:
Oren emphasized the importance of building AppsFlyer with a focus on data privacy from the very beginning. For B2B founders, establishing strong privacy and security measures early on can not only protect your customers but also serve as a competitive advantage as regulations tighten.
Bootstrap to Build Discipline:
Before securing external funding, AppsFlyer operated as a bootstrapped company. This approach can instill financial discipline and foster a culture of efficiency that persists even after raising capital.
Global Expansion Requires Local Presence:
Oren highlighted the importance of establishing a strong local presence in key markets early in AppsFlyer’s expansion. For startups with global ambitions, building offices or teams in strategic regions can significantly enhance customer relationships and market understanding.
Strategic Positioning for Fundraising:
The fundraising process for AppsFlyer was heavily influenced by how the company positioned itself in the market. Founders should focus on clear, strategic positioning that aligns with investor priorities, demonstrating both market potential and a robust business model.
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