A digital analytics tool that identifies the technology stack of websites, is a prime example of how a solo venture can achieve remarkable success. Founded by Gary Brewer in 2007, BuiltWith has evolved from a side project into a powerhouse, generating over $14 million in annual recurring revenue with just one full-time employee at its helm.
How BuiltWith Started
The birth of BuiltWith stemmed from Brewer’s curiosity about the technologies powering various startup websites. Realizing the absence of an easy way to uncover this information, he created BuiltWith, a platform that simplifies the process for users to discover what tools and technologies websites are built with.
This initiative was not driven by a desire to start a business but by Brewer’s interest in the technology itself. However, the value of the service quickly became evident as users began to see its potential for lead generation and market research.
Efficiency and Automation
Operating out of Sydney, Brewer initially balanced his corporate job with his work on BuiltWith, dedicating evenings to the project for four years. His commitment to maintaining a lean operation was clear from the start; he envisioned a business model that avoided the complexities of managing a team. This vision has remained a cornerstone of BuiltWith’s operations, emphasizing automation and efficiency over expansion.
Business Model
BuiltWith’s business model revolves around a subscription-based service that ranges from $295 to $995. The company provides detailed analytics and data for lead generation, sales intelligence, and market analysis.
BuiltWith caters to a diverse clientele, including marketing professionals, hedge funds, and technology reporters, who utilize the data for various purposes ranging from competitive analysis to investment decisions. The service has proven especially valuable for identifying potential customers, with businesses using BuiltWith’s data to target users of competing services.
Streamlining Operations
Despite its significant revenue, BuiltWith has kept its operation streamlined. Brewer has focused on automating as much of the business as possible, from customer service to data analysis. This approach not only keeps operational costs low but allows Brewer to dedicate time to developing new tools. The decision to automate customer service and make the unsubscribe process straightforward reflects Brewer’s commitment to user satisfaction.
Gary Brewer’s journey from exploring website technologies as a hobby to running a multi-million dollar business underscores the impact that one individual with a clear vision can make millions. BuiltWith redefines what’s possible for solo entrepreneurs and similar success stories will happen with the rise of the AI.