The SaaS CFO

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Ben Murray, The SaaS CFO, talks all things SaaS.

Ben Murray


    • Sep 16, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 23m AVG DURATION
    • 209 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from The SaaS CFO

    Sequence Raises $18M and Pivots to the B2B SaaS Billing Space

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2025 30:53


    On this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray sits down with Riya Grover, co-founder and CEO of Sequence. Riya shares her journey from investment banking to entrepreneurship, including the story behind her first SaaS company in the restaurant industry and its eventual acquisition. She dives into the inspiration for Sequence—a modern billing and quote-to-cash platform designed to tackle the challenges of custom contracts and complex pricing models for scaling SaaS and B2B companies. Riya opens up about the company's pivotal shift from payments to revenue management, navigating tough conversations with investors, and building a lean, high-impact team. She reveals how Sequence is empowering finance teams to automate billing, invoicing, and revenue recognition, while also offering flexibility for hybrid pricing and go-to-market motions. Tune in to hear Riya's insights on scaling a SaaS business, managing a major product pivot, and how AI-powered automation is transforming the future of financial operations. Whether you're a SaaS CFO, founder, or just curious about the evolving CFO tech stack, this episode has a wealth of lessons and practical advice. Show Notes: 00:00 Automated Custom Billing Platform 04:29 Scaling Challenges for SaaS Companies 09:11 Pivoting to Custom Payments Solutions 10:54 Early Capital's Impact on Team Building 14:51 Adapting Teams for Changing Visions 16:40 Growth Strategy Focused on Content and Networking 20:31 Hybrid Scalable Pricing Model 24:35 Transforming Finance with AI Agents 29:19 "Contextual Finance Automation Opportunities" 30:25 "Contact SequenceHQ Easily" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/sequence-raises-75-million-in-funding Riya Grover's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/riya-grover-a22a4822/ Sequence HQ's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sequence-hq/ Sequence HQ's Website: https://www.sequencehq.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Resolvd Raises $1.6M to Improve Hospital Supply Chains and Quality of Care

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2025 24:32


    In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray welcomes Ananth Manivannan, founder of Resolvd, for an insightful conversation about building a SaaS solution that's shaking up healthcare operations. Ananth shares how his journey from supply chain management at PepsiCo to software engineering at Capital One laid the groundwork for Resolvd, a company dedicated to automating complicated, manual workflows in hospital systems. The discussion highlights how personal experiences—including his own family's encounter with the complexities of hospital supply chains—inspired Ananth to solve real-world problems with technology. He opens up about the realities of fundraising at the pre-seed stage, landing big-name investors, and winning hospital clients by delivering fast, value-driven pilots that avoid drawn-out sales cycles. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a SaaS enthusiast, or just curious about the future of healthcare tech, this episode is packed with candid advice on pricing models, scaling a nimble team, and navigating the unpredictable world of startup growth. Tune in to discover what it takes to bring transformative AI-powered solutions to one of the world's most challenging and impactful industries. Show Notes: 00:00 Resolving the Swivel Chair Problem 06:35 Vision and Execution in Fundraising 09:52 Visionary Pitching for VC Success 12:18 Accelerating Healthcare Sales with Results 16:39 "Rise of Consumption-Based Models" 19:39 Measuring AI Workflow Efficiency 21:39 Exploring Pricing Models 24:21 Expressing Gratitude and Well Wishes Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/resolvd-ai-raises-1-6m-in-pre-seed-round Ananth Manivannan's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ananth-manivannan-775a24b7/ Resolvd AI's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/resolvdai/ Resolvd AI's Website: https://resolvd.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Heka Raises $16M to Open Source Finance Data for Global Financial Institutions

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 22:45


    On this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray sits down with Idan Bar-Dov, co-founder and CEO of Heka. Idan shares his unique journey from working in finance and law—starting out at an international law firm advising fintech companies—through the challenges of founding a startup during the pandemic, to leading a fast-growing SaaS company transforming how financial institutions use open source data. Together, they dive into Heka's evolution from its early focus on reconnecting consumers with their assets amid widespread data gaps, to becoming a global platform that provides advanced fraud detection, contact recovery, and enriched credit decisioning for major banks, fintechs, payment processors, and alternative lenders. Idan also opens up about the company's fundraising milestones, lessons learned from raising $16 million to date, building credibility with Fortune 500 clients, and the importance of sticky revenue metrics as the business scales. Tune in to hear more about Heka's mission to become the gold standard in consumer data, outpacing industry giants, and what's next for their growing team headquartered in New York and Israel. Plus, Idan shares practical advice for founders tackling enterprise sales, go-to-market strategy, and fundraising in the financial technology space. Show Notes: 00:00 Fintech Pivot During COVID Lockdown 04:15 Global Financial Reconnection Solutions 07:20 Insightful Investors Drive Series A 11:59 Navigating Investment Deals Efficiently 14:42 Investors Drive Financial Innovation 18:48 "Metrics for Growth: Revenue & NRR" 20:49 "Conquer Fortune 500 Market" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/heka-raises-14-million-in-series-a Idan Bar-Dov's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/idan-bar-dov/ Heka Global's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/heka-global/ Heka Global's Website: https://hekaglobal.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Cred's $15M Bet on AI: Inside the Founder's Vision for Smarter GTM and Market Intelligence

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 17:46


    In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray welcomes Jon Carr-Harris, founder and CEO of Cred, for an engaging discussion about Jon's global background and entrepreneurial journey. Growing up across nine countries and with experience in multiple startups, Jon brings a unique perspective to building successful tech businesses and understanding diverse user needs. Jon shares insights into Cred's innovative predictive intelligence platform, which helps companies bridge internal and external data to drive smarter business actions. The conversation dives into Cred's go-to-market strategies, enterprise sales cycles, and evolving pricing models—along with how the team secured a $15 million seed round and landed big-name customers in sports, entertainment, and finance. Whether you're interested in SaaS growth tactics, data-driven decision making, or scaling a new tech venture, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Jon also hints at an exciting new product launch coming soon, so stay tuned to learn more about what's next for Cred! Show Notes: 00:00 "Bridging Internal-External Market Insights" 04:38 PLG to Leadership Sales Strategy 08:33 "Tailoring Sales for Investor Appeal" 12:15 Adapting SaaS Pricing Model 14:28 Data and Revenue Correlation 16:41 "Revolutionary Enterprise Product Release" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/cred-raises-15-million-in-seed-round Jon Carr-Harris' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcarrharris/ CRED's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/credplatform/ CRED's Website: https://www.credplatform.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Sequence Raises $7.5M to Help Micro Businesses Manage Money and Cash Flow

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2025 28:07


    Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, host Ben sits down with Gilad Uziely, co-founder and CEO of Sequence (getsequence.io), for an open and insightful conversation about the rollercoaster journey of entrepreneurship and fintech innovation. Gilad shares his fascinating background—from growing up in Israel to building businesses across multiple industries, including hospitality and tech startups. The discussion dives deep into Sequence, a platform Gilad describes as “Zapier for money,” designed to help both individuals and small business owners seamlessly connect, automate, and manage their complex financial lives across various accounts. Gilad opens up about the challenges of pivoting from a failed neobank startup, the tough lessons learned through restructuring and fundraising (including wrangling 83 signatures to clean up a cap table!), and the resilience required to move forward. If you're interested in the realities of founding, pivoting, and scaling a SaaS company in the fintech world—or want a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build tools for micro-businesses and solopreneurs—this candid episode is for you. Gilad also shares his outlook on metrics that matter, building a strong company culture, and what's next for Sequence as they take on the challenge of simplifying how we manage money. Tune in to hear Gilad's remarkable journey, practical lessons for founders, and what it truly takes to turn setbacks into new opportunities. Show Notes: 00:00 "Program Your Money Easily" 04:29 Small Business Clients with Diverse Income 06:44 Business App for Revenue Tracking 11:16 Startup Pivot: Conviction and Blue Oceans 13:40 Fraudulent Users Increase Acquisition Costs 18:42 Critical Pivot Fueled by Investment 21:49 Targeting Small Business Customers 26:23 Cutting Acquisition Costs with Partnerships 27:27 "Join Sequence: Community & Content" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/sequence-raises-75-million-in-funding Gilad Uziely's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/giladuziely/ Sequence's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/getsequence/ Sequence's Website: https://www.getsequence.io/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Building Enterprise-Grade AI: Lessons from Snorkel AI's Fundraising and Expansion

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2025 21:48


    Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, host Ben Murray sits down with Braden Hancock, co-founder of Snorkel AI, to explore the journey of turning an academic research project at Stanford into one of today's leading AI data platforms. Braden shares the origins of Snorkel, how it grew from a PhD initiative to a company helping some of the world's largest enterprises tackle their toughest data labeling and AI evaluation challenges, and why good data remains the “secret sauce” behind successful AI. We'll dive into how Snorkel's platform has enabled organizations—from major banks to highly regulated industries—to quickly build and customize AI models, and why scalable, programmatic approaches to data labeling are game changers. Braden also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at Snorkel's growth, fundraising journey (raising over $237 million to date!), and valuable lessons learned along the way. If you're interested in the real-world applications of AI, SaaS growth strategies, or the evolving landscape of enterprise tech, you won't want to miss this insightful conversation with one of AI's innovative leaders. Let's jump in! Show Notes: 00:00 "AI Success: Data-Driven Approach" 06:24 Startup Investment Stages Simplified 09:57 Strategic Momentum Drives Startup Success 13:16 Expanding Channels and Partnerships 14:33 AI Platform & Data Solutions Pricing 20:25 Focus on Evaluation Challenges 21:17 "Discover Snorkel Online" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/snorkel-ai-raises-raises-85-million-in-series-c https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/snorkel-ai-raises-100-million-in-series-d Braden Hancock's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradenhancock/ Snorkel AI's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/snorkel-ai/ Snorkel AI's Website: https://snorkel.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Momants Raises €1M to Improve the Event Ticketing Experience

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2025 26:21


    In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray welcomes Jan Willem Van der Meer, co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Momants. Jan Willem shares his entrepreneurial journey, starting from building one of Europe's major ticketing companies to launching Momants, an AI-powered platform designed to transform the events industry. Discover how Momants is tackling the challenges of personalization and efficiency in event ticketing. Jan Willem explains how their solution integrates with existing ticketing systems to automate support, increase conversion, and create tailored marketing experiences for everything from festivals and concerts to museums and amusement parks. Jan Willem also discusses the realities of founding and funding a SaaS startup, offering valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. If you're interested in how AI is shaping the future of events, or if you're a SaaS founder seeking inspiration and advice, this episode is filled with practical insights and forward-thinking ideas. Show Notes: 00:00 Ticketing Company Rise and Sale 03:57 Challenges in Festival Ticketing 10:00 AI Startup's Initial $1M Investment 11:54 Supportive Network for Startup Success 14:35 "Building AI Partnerships with Innovators" 20:42 Balancing Revenue and Client Experience 22:39 Message Engagement and Client Onboarding 25:38 "WWF Moments Founder Chat" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/momants-raises-1-million-in-pre-seed-funding Jan Willem Van der Meer's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janwillemvdmeer/ Momant's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/momants/ Momant's Website: https://www.momants.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Fisent Raises $2M to Help Enterprises Automate Repetitive Human-Dependent Tasks

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2025 22:53


    Welcome to another episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, host Ben Murray sits down with Adrian Murray, founder and CEO of Fisent Technologies—a Toronto-based, SaaS company that's making waves in the enterprise automation space. With a background in banking technology, consulting, and a previous ed tech startup, Adrian shares his fascinating entrepreneurial journey and reveals how Fisent pivoted from its original KYC-focused product to its flagship BizAI solution, thanks in part to the rise of generative AI models like OpenAI's GPT, Google's Gemini, and others. In this conversation, Adrian discusses the complexities of automating content processing for highly regulated industries such as financial services, manufacturing, and healthcare. He gives real-world examples, including how Fisent is helping a specialty parts manufacturer in the nuclear industry save time and improve on-time delivery metrics by extracting detailed requirements from lengthy technical documentation. Adrian also dives into go-to-market strategies, focusing on partner-driven sales, transactional pricing models, and why speed—not just cost savings—is the primary value driver for Fisent's enterprise customers. Whether you're interested in SaaS pricing strategies, enterprise sales, or learning how AI is being applied to real-world business challenges, this episode is packed with actionable insights and entrepreneurial advice. Be sure to visit Fisent.com or connect with Fisent Technologies on LinkedIn for more information. Show Notes: 00:00 Innovating KYC with Fisent Risk 03:28 AI-Powered KYC Automation 06:51 AI Streamlines Complex Order Processing 13:11 Partner-Driven Enterprise Strategy 17:22 Post-Sale Software Usage Challenges 18:42 Importance of Net Dollar Retention 21:40 "APIs: Demo Usability vs. Production" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/fisent-technologies-expands-seed-round-to-2m Adrian Murray's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianmurrray/ Fisent's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fisent/ Fisent's Website: https://fisent.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Loti Raises $24M to Find Your Likeness and Brand on the Internet

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2025 19:02


    On today's episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, I sit down with Luke Arrigoni, founder of Loti, a trailblazing SaaS company using AI to help individuals, celebrities, and brands find—and remove—content that doesn't belong on the internet. Luke brings a fascinating background, moving from academic math and early data science roles to building cutting-edge machine learning products well before “AI” became the buzzword it is today. We dig into the story of how an unusual client project turned into a fast-growing business now protecting everyone from concerned consumers to household-name celebrities to major intellectual property holders. Luke doesn't just share the Loti origin story, he also gets real about the lessons learned in raising $24 million in venture capital, how their go-to-market evolved, and why the company is now laser-focused on market share over pure revenue growth. Whether you're curious about using AI for digital protection, want to pick up fundraising tips, or just love real stories from SaaS founders in the trenches, this conversation delivers actionable insights and some seriously honest founder wisdom. Plus, Luke teases a big expansion for Loti on the horizon—so you'll want to hear what's coming next. Show Notes: 00:00 From Math to AI Innovator 05:36 Accelerating Growth and VC Success 07:33 Rethinking Venture Capital Necessity 11:41 "Value of Directness and Balance" 15:43 "Shifting Focus: Growth to Market Share" 16:26 Market Share vs. Revenue Optimization Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/loti-ai-secures-16-2-million-in-series-a Luke Arrigoni's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukearrigoni/ Loti's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/goloti/ Loti's Website: https://www.lotiai.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Abacum Raises $100M+ to Become the Dominate FP&A Software

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 25:13


    In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Julio Martinez, co-founder and CEO of Abacum. Julio shares his path from investment banking and FP&A roles to building a top-tier financial planning and analysis platform that supports companies from Series B through IPO and beyond. He dives into how Abacum is redefining business planning for finance teams, empowering them to manage increasing complexity as they scale. Julio discusses the fundraising journey, including what it took to secure over $100 million in capital and the different expectations at each round. He also breaks down the key SaaS metrics investors care about, strategies for efficient and sustainable growth, and the importance of building strong foundations rather than chasing shortcuts. If you're interested in metrics-driven growth, scaling SaaS businesses, or want a firsthand look at what it takes to lead a high-growth fintech startup, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Tune in to hear how Abacum is leveraging AI, developing a customer-obsessed platform, and what's next on their roadmap. Show Notes: 00:00 Versatile Business Planning Platform 04:23 Finance Targets in Diverse Sectors 07:08 Series B: From Ambition to Rationality 11:09 Building Strong, Sustainable Businesses 15:32 "Scaling Cold Outreach with Tech" 16:14 Targeted Email Outreach for CFOs 22:01 "Building Unbeatable, Sustainable Products" 23:43 "Building a Long-Term Iconic Business" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/abacum-raises-25-million-in-series-a https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/abacum-raises-60-million-in-series-b Julio Martinez's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejuliomartinez/ Abacum's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/abacum-io/ Abacum's Website: https://www.abacum.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Rillet Raises $25M Series A to Disrupt the Accounting Software Space

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2025 29:19


    Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we're diving deep into the next generation of accounting software with Nicolas Kopp, CEO and founder of Rillet. Nicolas shares his journey from building a fully regulated bank to launching Rillet—an AI-first ERP platform designed to take on industry staples like QuickBooks, Xero, NetSuite, and Sage Intacct. With a background grounded in finance and accounting, Nicolas brings a fresh perspective to a market that's long been dominated by legacy solutions. We'll discuss how Rillet is shaking things up for asset-light businesses in SaaS, AI, professional services, and fintech, and why the platform's robust multi-entity, multi-currency capabilities have attracted mid-market companies ready to graduate from more traditional tools. Nicolas also sheds light on the challenges of building highly regulated, mission-critical systems from scratch, what's behind their rapid customer adoption, and how an AI-native approach is changing expectations for accounting software. From funding milestones and his recent $25 million Series A, to lessons learned about product-market fit and the nuances of scaling go-to-market through channels and inbound demand, Nicolas gives us the behind-the-scenes look at Rillet's rise. If you're curious about the future of financial software—or when it's really time to make the leap from QuickBooks to a next-gen ERP—this conversation is for you. Let's get started! Show Notes: 00:00 "Comprehensive ERP System Advantages" 06:02 Business Growth from Transition Points 07:28 Streamlined ERP Solutions 12:37 Investment Insights: Backgrounds and Success 15:53 "Choosing Between Innovative ERP Solutions" 16:58 Rapid Success in Fundraising 22:15 Building Trust in B2B Sales 25:57 NPS and ARR Prioritized Over Retention 27:54 Focus on KPIs and AI Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/rillet-raises-25-million-in-series-a https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/rillet-raises-13-5-million-in-funding Nicolas Kopp's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolas-kopp/ Rillet's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/team-rillet/ Rillet's Website: https://www.rillet.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Kovr Raises $3.6M to Automate Cyber Compliance with AI

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2025 33:59


    Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, host Ben Murray sits down with Andrew Black, CEO of Kovr, and Sri Iyer, the company's founder and CTO. Kovr is shaking up the world of cybersecurity compliance, helping organizations dramatically speed up the process of achieving certifications like FedRAMP, HIPAA, and others—using the latest breakthroughs in generative AI. Andrew and Sri bring fascinating perspectives, drawing from deep experience in tech, government, and startups, including previous roles at Amazon Web Services, PwC, Lockheed, and Gartner. They talk about the pain points that tech companies and government agencies face when trying to deploy secure software in regulated environments, and how Kovr can cut compliance timelines from years to minutes. If you're curious about go-to-market strategies for AI-first startups, lessons learned from early fundraising, or how to build a SaaS business in a highly regulated market, this episode is packed with candid insights and actionable advice. Tune in to hear how Kovr is empowering innovators to get their products into the hands of customers faster, with less headache—and what's next for this fast-moving team. Show Notes: 00:00 "Compliance Challenges in Software Deployment" 03:43 Streamlining Compliance with AI 06:37 Target Customers: CISOs to DevOps Teams 11:11 Pursuing a $13B Market Opportunity 13:03 AI Traction and Trust Challenges 17:38 Navigating VC Relationships and Fit 20:17 Unlimited-Use Enterprise SaaS Licensing 23:48 Simplifying Gen AI Sales Model 28:26 Efficient AI: Smaller Models, Big Savings 30:25 "Focus on Sales Cycle Days" 33:44 "LinkedIn Profile: Kovr AI" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/kovr-ai-raises-3-6-million-in-seed-round Andrew Black's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-black-5435b67/ Sri Iyer's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sri-iyer/ Kovr AI's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kovrai/ Kovr AI's Website: https://kovr.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Invent Raises 11.2M Series A to Help M&A Dealmakers Create Pipeline

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2025 19:20


    Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we're excited to speak with Nilo Pirttijarvi, co-founder of Inven—a rapidly growing AI-powered deal sourcing tool making waves in the M&A world. Nilo takes us through his journey from a background in consulting and investment banking to launching his first startup, inspired by the pain points he and his co-founders experienced firsthand in finding and analyzing acquisition targets. In this episode, you'll hear how Inven is helping private equity, investment banks, and corporate M&A teams supercharge their deal pipelines—especially when it comes to those hard-to-find, niche targets in the middle market. Nilo shares candid insights about Inven's rapid growth, fundraising journey (including a recent €11.2 million Series A), and the lessons learned when building both relationships and ARR to attract top investors. We also dive into the startup's operational metrics, go-to-market strategies, pricing models, and what's next for this ambitious international team. If you're interested in SaaS growth, fundraising, or the future of AI in deal sourcing, you won't want to miss this conversation! Show Notes: 00:00 Streamlining Company Analysis Process 06:20 Rapid Startup Growth Pathway 08:16 Relationships Over ARR in Investment 12:00 "Classic Global Sales Model" 13:59 M&A Tool User Variability 17:54 Competitive Multi-Tool Market Strategy Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/inven-raises-11-2-million-in-series-a Niilo Pirttijarvi's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niilo-pirttijarvi/ Inven AI's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inven-ai/ Inven AI's Website: https://www.inven.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    InsightWise Raises 1M Pre-seed to Automate the Strategy and Consulting Lifecycle with AI

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2025 20:31


    In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray welcomes Katherine Tobias, the dynamic co-founder and CEO of InsightWise. Katherine shares her inspiring journey from her early days consulting at KPMG and working in government to leading one of Australia's fastest-growing startups. Driven by her passion for delivering real-world impact and navigating mountains of qualitative data, Katherine reveals how these experiences led her to launch InsightWise—a groundbreaking AI platform tailored for consultants and strategy teams. Tune in as Katherine dives into the realities of startup life, fundraising, and what it takes to disrupt the consulting industry with innovative technology. She opens up about empowering both global enterprises and agile boutique firms with tools that turn unstructured data into actionable insights, while also building a tight-knit team with big ambitions. Katherine's story is a masterclass in navigating career pivots, seizing opportunities, and harnessing AI to drive business transformation. Whether you're a SaaS founder, consultant, or tech enthusiast, you won't want to miss this engaging conversation packed with actionable advice, honest reflections, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to scale a modern software company. Hit play and get inspired! Show Notes: 00:00 From Oxford to Global Startup Success 03:12 Insightwise: AI Hub for Consultants 07:20 AI-Driven Data Synthesis Solutions 10:50 "Building Relationships in Consulting" 15:30 "First-Time Founder Fundraising Journey" 16:32 "Strategic Capital for Business Growth" 19:58 "Insightwise AI Free Trial" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/insightwise-closes-1-million-in-funding Katherine Tobias' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-tobias-40857789/ InsightWise's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/insightwise-ai/ InsightWise's Website: https://www.insightwise.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Using AI to Automate Marketing Compliance for Financial Services

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2025 25:53


    In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray welcomes Austin Carroll, the dynamic founder and CEO of Warrant. Drawing from her deep roots in marketing and product management at household names like Capital One, Mercury, and Brex, Austin shares how real-world challenges navigating regulatory approvals inspired her to launch Warrant—a platform harnessing AI to automate and streamline marketing compliance for the financial services industry. Austin highlights the complexities and pitfalls of adhering to rapidly evolving federal, state, and local regulations in sectors like mortgage, insurance, and banking. She explains how Warrant checks marketing materials for compliance, helping companies of all sizes—from nimble startups to large enterprises—avoid costly missteps and accelerate their go-to-market strategies. Her journey provides invaluable insight into the needs of modern fintech marketers and compliance teams. Beyond the tech, Austin opens up about her path as a female founder, candidly discussing the fundraising process, her unique go-to-market approach, and the lessons learned from early customer traction. Whether you're passionate about fintech, compliance, or entrepreneurship, this conversation offers a compelling look at the future of AI-powered marketing compliance and the vision of a founder determined to solve one of the industry's most pressing challenges. Show Notes: 00:00 Streamlining Crisis Communication Compliance 06:09 Regulatory Challenges in Financial Compliance 07:12 Targeting Small to Mid-Market Clients 10:59 Strategic Market Engagement Approach 16:57 Entrepreneurship: Play to Your Strengths 17:51 Conversation-Driven Fundraising Strategy 21:40 Tracking Key Business Metrics 25:37 "Sign Up for Newsletter Now" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/warrant-raises-720k-in-pre-seed-round Austin Carroll's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austincarroll/ Warrant's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/warrant/ Warrant's Website: https://www.hellowarrant.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    BAM Raised 400K to Be Your Omnichannel Content Marketing and Strategy Machine

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025 23:26


    Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, I'm excited to sit down with Adam Chrigström, founder and CEO of Big Audience Machine (BAM). Adam's journey has taken him from studying economics to a successful run in brand marketing and research, leading to the launch and acquisition of Play Pilot—a streaming guide that reached over six million monthly users. After serving as Head of AI at the acquiring fund, Adam launched Big Audience Machine, a cutting-edge content marketing platform designed to help companies turn strategy and deep brand understanding into effective, multi-channel content. Adam shares what inspired him to build BAM, lessons he's learned from pivoting in the creative and SaaS industries, and practical advice for founders navigating early-stage growth, team building, and fundraising in today's AI-driven market. We'll talk about how BAM is helping both agencies and in-house teams, what they've learned from working closely with pilot customers, and what's coming next as they prepare for an exciting public launch. Whether you're a founder, marketer, or just looking to glimpse the future of content and branding, tune in for Adam Chrigström's story and insights! Show Notes: 00:00 Pivot from Pre-Production Platform 05:46 "BAM: Streamlined Content Marketing Platform" 07:35 Effective AI-Driven Content Strategy 11:10 AI's Limitations in Brand Intuition 14:57 "Early-Stage Branding Strategy Development" 20:40 Early-Stage Product and Customer Engagement 21:54 "Data Challenges and Future Plans" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/big-audience-machine-raises-350k-in-funding Adam Chrigström's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-chrigstr%C3%B6m/ Big Audience Machine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-audience-machine/ Big Audience Machine's Website: https://www.bigaudiencemachine.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    $350K Raised to Improve AI Generated Content for Agencies and Marketers

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 19:39


    In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, we welcome Yana Lapitskaya, the CEO and co-founder of YAI, an innovative platform designed to enhance the quality of AI-generated marketing content. With over 15 years in marketing and a successful agency exit under her belt, Yana shares her journey from agency founder to SaaS startup leader, and how her hands-on experience shaped her vision for YAI. Yana discusses the challenges marketers face with AI-produced content and explains how YAI's tools improve brand voice, clarity, SEO, and prepare businesses for the changing landscape of AI-enabled search. She also offers a behind-the-scenes look at building her team, refining the product, and developing go-to-market strategies that resonate with both agencies and enterprise brands. Tune in to hear valuable lessons on early-stage SaaS fundraising, product activation metrics, and the drive it takes to launch and grow a tech company. Whether you're a marketer, founder, or SaaS enthusiast, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration from a leader at the forefront of marketing technology. Show Notes: 00:00 Marketing Expert in Tech Innovation 05:48 "Multi-Brand Marketing Efficiency" 09:46 Dual Approach Market Strategy 11:58 "Challenges of Bootstrapping and Scaling" 16:07 Key Metric: Activation Rate 17:31 Startup Focus: User Value & AI Integration Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/yai-secures-250-000-in-seis-funding Yana Lapitskaya's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yanalapitskaya/ YAi's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/yai-digital/ YAi's Website: https://yai.digital/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    From Family Business to $4.5M Funding: Anna Berger's Trayd Transforms Construction Back Offices

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 18:38


    In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, I'm joined by Anna Berger, founder and CEO of Trayd—a game-changing construction payroll and compliance software. Anna shares how her career in marketing and personal roots in the construction industry inspired her to tackle the toughest back-office challenges specialty contractors face, from HR and scheduling to payroll and compliance. We dive into Anna's journey from working at top ad agencies and Marriott International to becoming a two-time founder and YC alum. She opens up about the challenges and wins of building Trayd, raising $4.5 million in seed funding, and the importance of customer retention and consistent branding in SaaS growth. If you're passionate about SaaS, vertical solutions, or just love a good founder story, you won't want to miss this conversation. Tune in to learn how Anna and her team are streamlining complex operations for contractors and driving rapid growth in an industry that's overdue for innovation! Show Notes: 00:00 Diverse Founder Background Advantage 03:31 Unified Construction Software Solution 06:38 Family-Driven Construction Insight 10:56 Startup Fundraising Journey 14:39 CEO Focus: Retention and Growth Metrics 16:37 "Dogfooding to Improve Customer Experience" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/trayd-raises-4-5-million-in-seed-round Anna Berger's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annajberger/ Trayd's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/traydinc/ Trayd's Website: https://www.buildtrayd.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    €1.2M Pre-seed to Automate the Life Insurance Underwriting Process with AI

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 27:27


    In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray welcomes Amira Nakouri, co-founder and CEO of Klaimy, to share her inspiring entrepreneurial journey. With a strong background in strategy consulting for major European insurers, Amira reveals how her drive for innovation—and a spark from the rise of generative AI—led her to launch Klaimy in Paris. Klaimy is redefining the insurance industry by using AI to streamline the complex and time-consuming medical underwriting process. Amira explains how their technology helps insurance companies process medical records with incredible speed and accuracy, cutting decision times from days to just minutes. She also discusses the company's go-to-market strategies, working with mid-sized MGAs, and their hybrid SaaS pricing model. Tune in as Amira shares candid insights about building a startup team, navigating challenges with enterprise sales cycles, and raising pre-seed capital during uncertain times in Europe. Whether you're interested in SaaS, AI, or the future of insurtech, this episode offers valuable lessons for founders and innovators alike. Show Notes: 00:00 From Consultant to Entrepreneur in AI 05:12 Streamlining Complex Insurance Tasks 09:22 Expanding Insurance with AI-Powered Models 12:21 Startup Formation and Partnership Milestones 14:54 Small, Strategic Startup Team 17:49 "Insurance Industry Adoption Challenges" 22:46 Amsterdam Insurance Forum 2024 23:59 Targeted VC Strategy Yields Success 27:13 Explore KLAIMY.com Today Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/klaimy-raises-1-2m-in-pre-seed-round Amira Nakouri's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amira-nakouri-1b729248/ Klaimy's Website: https://www.getklaimy.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    $3.7M Seed Round to Bring AI Data Agents to Supply Chain Operations

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2025 26:28


    In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray welcomes Ibrahim Ashqar, the co-founder and CEO of Lumi AI. Ibrahim shares his impressive background in data science and AI, including his time at Deloitte and the supply chain tech unicorn Stord, before diving into why he launched Lumi. The conversation highlights the challenges companies face with traditional business intelligence tools, and how Lumi is revolutionizing data access for brands, retailers, and supply chain operators through agentic workflows and conversational analytics. Ben and Ibrahim discuss Lumi's focused go-to-market strategy, their partnerships with industry giants like Deloitte and BCG, and how they're working with mid-market to Fortune 10 enterprises. Listeners will also hear about Lumi's journey through fundraising, lessons learned in scaling an early-stage SaaS company, and the key product metrics that guide their growth. Whether you're interested in AI, enterprise analytics, or the inner workings of a fast-growing SaaS startup, this episode is packed with actionable insights and firsthand advice from the front lines of innovation. Show Notes: 00:00 Supply Chain Analytics Software Focus 04:54 Strategic Supply Chain Planning Overview 09:13 Educational Analytics Approach Success 11:28 Consultant Challenges: Navigating Clearances 15:36 Complementary Tool, Not Replacement 18:36 Unexpected Visibility During Stealth Mode 21:34 Effective Investor Pitch Strategy 24:34 "Optimizing Intuitive AI Workflows" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/lumi-ai-raises-3-7-million-in-seed-round Ibrahim Ashqar's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ibrahimashqar/ Lumi AI's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lumi-ai Lumi Ai's Website: https://www.lumi-ai.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    $1.7M Raised to Speed Up the In-house Legal Contract Review Process

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 19:53


    On this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray sits down with Gus Neate, the co-founder and CEO of Wilson AI. Gus shares his unique journey from engineering and law to entrepreneurship, explaining how his experience in top law firms and in-house legal teams inspired the creation of Wilson AI—the world's first AI-powered paralegal. Together, they delve into how Wilson AI is helping in-house legal teams automate repetitive contract workflows, extract key terms from documents, and enable seamless legal Q&A within organizations. Gus discusses the ideal customer profile, ROI for clients, and the tiered pricing model that powers their early traction. He also opens about their recent $1.7 million pre-seed raise, lessons learned through fundraising, and the importance of product adoption and user retention in these early stages. From data security concerns to global expansion ambitions, Gus offers insights for founders, legal ops leaders, and SaaS CFOs alike who are interested in leveraging AI to streamline their legal operations. Stay tuned for a behind-the-scenes look at scaling an early-stage SaaS company right at the intersection of law and technology. Show Notes: 00:00 AI Paralegal by Wilson for Contracts 06:22 Tiered Pricing Structure Insights 09:38 Targeted Content for Legal Teams 11:43 Accelerator-Driven Entrepreneurial Growth 15:01 Streamlining Customer Experience Setup 17:02 AI-Enhanced Document Analysis Tools 19:41 "Explore GetWilson AI" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/wilsonai-raises-1-7-million-in-funding Gus Neate's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gus-neate/ Wilson AI's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wilsonai-company/ Wilson AI's Website: https://www.getwilson.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Vayu Raises $7M to Future-proof Revenue Management for B2B Companies

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2025 22:27


    Welcome to another thrilling episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast on YouTube, where we unravel the latest innovations at the crossroads of finance and technology! This time, we've got Erez Agmon, the dynamic CEO and co-founder of Vayu, sharing his remarkable journey from venture capitalist to tech entrepreneur. With a decade in the startup ecosystem, Erez now turns his focus to revolutionizing the financial landscape through AI-driven solutions. At Vayu, they're not just keeping pace with the change—they're leading it. Discover how Vayu acts as the "winds of change" for finance, as Erez puts it, automating the most complex billing and contract-to-cash processes with unprecedented ease. From AI-enhanced metering tools to real-time revenue insights, Vayu is empowering B2B companies to innovate pricing models and streamline operations without the engineering headache. Join us as we delve into Erez's unique vision and the strategies propelling Vayu to the forefront of the fintech revolution. Whether you're a CFO looking for cutting-edge tools, a tech enthusiast, or someone fascinated by the mechanics of business finance, this episode has something for you. Stay tuned and get ready to be inspired by the future of financial technology! Show Notes: 00:00 Vayu: Revolutionizing B2B Billing Solutions 03:39 Real-Time Contract Management Solution 06:27 B2B Pricing and Implementation Solutions 10:36 Flexible Pricing Solution Achieved 14:50 Strategic Growth Through Lessons Learned 18:52 Retention Strategies in CFO Space 20:40 Optimizing B2B Pricing with AI Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/vayu-raises-7-million-in-seed-round Erez Agmon's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erez-agmon-66017012a/ Vayu's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/withvayu/ Vayu's Website: https://www.withvayu.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Zenskar Raises $7M to Simplify Billing and Rev Rec for Modern Businesses

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2025 23:17


    Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast YouTube channel! In this episode, we're thrilled to present a conversation with Apurv Bansal, the co-founder and CEO of Zenskar. Apurv journeys us through his intriguing career path, starting from selling his first company to gaining insightful experiences at Google, which ultimately led to the inception of Zenskar. His story is a testament to how industry experience and recognizing universal pain points can catalyze groundbreaking business ideas. Zenskar is revolutionizing the revenue automation landscape with its innovative order-to-cash platform. Apurv delves into the unique offerings of Zenskar, which handles everything from billing and collection to revenue recognition and SaaS metrics reporting. With the platform's ability to simplify complex pricing models and usage tracking, Zenskar is setting itself apart from legacy vendors, offering unparalleled value to businesses with intricate billing requirements. Apurv shares how Zenskar's solutions cater to both burgeoning startups and established companies looking to streamline their revenue operations. Join us as we unpack Zenskar's journey of innovation and growth. We'll explore how this platform addresses the challenges of subscription management and the critical role of having an efficiently automated system in place. Apurv's insights provide actionable strategies for scaling a SaaS business, understanding the competitive landscape, and honing a successful go-to-market approach. Whether you're a SaaS enthusiast or a finance professional, this episode is sure to broaden your perspective on contemporary revenue management solutions. Show Notes: 00:00 Second Startup Driven by Billing Gap 03:38 Pricing Complexity in B2B SaaS Models 09:51 Pricing Depends on Module and Complexity 10:53 Seamless Data Warehouse Integration 15:22 Believe and Communicate Your Advantage 18:57 Scaling and Evaluating Market Channels 20:50 Automation's Benefits Beyond Cost Savings Links: Apruv Bansal's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bansalapurv/ Zenskar's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zenskar/ Zenskar's Website: https://www.zenskar.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    TrueRev Helps SaaS Companies Automate Their Revenue Cycle

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2025 22:28


    In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, we are excited to have Ali Rizvi, the innovative CEO and founder of TrueRev, as our guest. Ali's journey from being a CPA with a solid background in finance and audit to becoming the driving force behind TrueRev, offers a wealth of insights. He draws on his extensive experience as a CFO for early-stage tech firms to highlight the persistent financial challenges SaaS companies face, ultimately leading him to develop TrueRev as a solution for subscription and revenue management issues. TrueRev is dedicated to streamlining operations for small to medium-sized businesses dealing with recurring revenue complexities. Ali elaborates on how the platform addresses these challenges by focusing on revenue recognition, subscription management, and financial reporting, providing SaaS companies with a cohesive solution. With a mission to solve the financial chaos that arises in tech-driven companies, TrueRev aims to ensure accurate and seamless financial operations, especially for businesses lacking the resources to address these problems with existing systems or headcount. In addition to sharing the vision behind TrueRev, Ali provides a glimpse into the strategic roadmap for growth and the essential role of clean data in financial operations. He offers valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of subscription management and where the industry is headed. Whether you're an entrepreneur in the SaaS space or a finance professional seeking to optimize financial processes, Ali's discussion is full of actionable insights and forward-thinking strategies. Tune in to explore how TrueRev is changing the game in SaaS financial management and what it means for your business. Show Notes: 00:00 Revenue Recognition Challenges 05:34 Target Market: Growing Companies' Recurring Revenue 09:09 Side Project to Startup Launch 11:28 Inbound Strategy Focused on Conversion 13:32 Bootstrapping vs. VC Funding Pressure 18:49 Holistic Subscription Management Challenges 20:34 Complexity of Contract Management 23:08 "Explore TrueRev with Ali" Links: Ali Rizvi's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rizvial/ TrueRev's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/true-rev/ TrueRev's Website: https://truerev.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Quanscient Raises 9M to Convert Digital Designs to Digital Prototypes with Multiphysics Simulation Tech

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2025 16:06


    Welcome to another thrilling episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we have the pleasure of hosting Juha Riipi, the brilliant CEO of Quanscient. With a career that spans software development to consulting, Juha has now ventured into the realm of cutting-edge multiphysics simulations, and he's here to share how Quanscient is changing the game.

    Docket Raises $20M to Boost Your Growth with AI Sales Engineers

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2025 24:37


    Welcome to another engaging episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, where host Ben Murray sits down with Arjun Pillai, the visionary co-founder and CEO of Docket. Arjun takes us on a journey through his impressive 13-year career in the realms of sales tech, martech, and data tech. Having founded multiple companies and successfully exited them, Arjun offers a wealth of experience and insights that he's now channeling into his new venture, Docket. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the confluence of entrepreneurship and innovative technology. In their conversation, Arjun and Ben delve into the nuts and bolts of Docket's pioneering product - an AI sales engineer designed to assist B2B sales teams. As Arjun highlights, this tool aims to elevate the capacity of salespeople by enabling them to efficiently handle intricate product inquiries and competitive challenges, all while drawing from the best practices within their company. The dialogue also touches on key aspects of startup funding, AI technology, and creating a robust go-to-market strategy, making it essential listening for aspiring entrepreneurs and industry leaders. Join us as we explore Arjun's transition from a successful engineer to a seasoned entrepreneur, uncovering the lessons learned and the paths paved along the way. With Docket's promising trajectory in the AI sales landscape and Arjun's insightful perspectives, this episode promises to deliver invaluable knowledge and inspiration for listeners across the board. Tune in for a conversation that bridges innovation and strategy in the ever-evolving world of SaaS. Show Notes: 00:00 "AI Solutions for Sales Challenges" 04:26 Streamlining Sales Through Real-Time Support 09:03 CFOs Exploring GTM AI Strategies 11:19 AI Startups: Balancing Cost and Efficiency 16:00 Early Success Driven by Strong Fundamentals 19:38 Scaling GTM: Key Sales Metrics 22:58 "Prioritize Feedback For New Features" 24:02 Connect via LinkedIn or DocketAI Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/docket-raises-3-million-in-funding https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/docket-ai-raises-15-million-in-series-a Arjun Pillai's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rarjunpillai/ Docket's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/docket-inc/ Docket's Website: https://www.docketai.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    KnownWell Raises $6M to Help Service Businesses Retain and Grow Customers

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2025 25:52


    In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray is joined once again by David DeWolf, the President and CEO of KnownWell. David, a seasoned entrepreneur and former software engineer, dives into his transition from building a successful consulting firm to founding KnownWell, a company that's making strides in the realm of commercial intelligence for professional service businesses. His passionate journey from zero to nearly $200 million in revenue, and his focus on digital product development, set the stage for this insightful conversation. David shares updates on KnownWell's significant milestones, including their recent $4 million seed round, driven by unexpected commercial demand and market traction. With a mission to harness relationship data to empower service firms, KnownWell is making waves in the industry by offering innovative solutions that target operational challenges using AI. David's strategic approach to aligning with the right investors and the importance of cultural fit shines through as he discusses the company's ongoing growth. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the evolving SaaS landscape as David highlights the company's roadmap toward product market fit and their focus on scaling effectively. He reveals how KnownWell is leveraging thought leadership and a dedicated podcast to generate inbound leads and strengthen customer relationships. Don't miss this episode for a deeper understanding of how David and his team are navigating the complex world of SaaS, exploring new opportunities, and striving to build a platform for the AI era. Show Notes: 00:00 Journey from Engineer to Entrepreneur 04:47 Outsourcing Challenges in Finance 08:28 Strategic Growth and Efficiency Planning 10:57 Pioneering AI Business Solutions 13:57 Surging Commercial Demand Strains Capacity 16:35 "Cultural Fit Matters Most" 19:26 Ambitious AI Firm Launch Strategy 23:31 Strategic Roadmap for Business Success 25:50 Enjoyable Experience, Thank You Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/knownwell-raises-4-million-in-seed-round David DeWolf's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ddewolf/ Knownwell's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/knownwell/ Knownwell's Website: https://knownwell.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Originality AI Helps Content Marketers Improve Content Through AI and Plagiarism Detection

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2025 19:45


    In today's episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, we sit down with Madeleine Lambert, a seasoned expert in content marketing and the innovative founder of Originality AI. With a rich history in creating SEO-driven content, Madeleine brings her expertise to the forefront by addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by the rapidly evolving world of AI in content creation. Her company, Originality AI, offers cutting-edge AI detection and content validation tools, designed specifically for content marketers and agencies looking to maintain high-quality and authenticated content. As the content landscape continues to shift with advancements in AI, Madeleine shares valuable insights into navigating these changes, particularly in relation to SEO and Google's search algorithms. She delves into her personal journey, from founding Content Refined in 2016 to successfully exiting the business in 2022, all while staying ahead of the curve with AI-driven solutions. Listen in as she discusses the implications of AI-generated content and the strategies required to stand out in a crowded digital space. Join us for an intriguing conversation that includes a sneak peek into Originality AI's upcoming predictive SEO feature. Discover how combining technology with human validation is key to achieving superior content marketing strategies. Whether you're exploring AI's impact on content marketing or are part of the SaaS industry, this episode promises a wealth of insights and inspiration. Show Notes: 00:00 Content Refined: SEO to AI Transition 06:18 Google's Stance on AI Content 08:07 Google's AI-Generated Content Penalties 12:45 Detecting AI-Generated Google Reviews 14:22 Validating Platform Reviews' Challenge 17:52 Adopting Mixpanel for Department Metrics Links: Madeleine Lambert's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madeleine-lambert-b6426aa9/ Originality AI's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/originality-ai/ Originality AI's Website: https://originality.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Converge Bio Raises $6M to Accelerate Development for Biotech and Pharma

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2025 13:48


    Join us in this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast as we welcome Dov Gertz, CEO and co-founder of Converge Bio. With an impressive background in computer science and bioinformatics, Dov has contributed groundbreaking research in genome editing alongside Nobel Prize laureate Professor Jennifer Doudna. Currently, he leads Converge Bio, innovating at the crossroads of AI and biotech to enhance pharmaceutical R&D. Converge Bio is revolutionizing the biotech and pharma landscape with advanced AI solutions designed to expedite research and development processes. Dov shares insights into the company's focus on optimizing antibody design and protein manufacturing, as well as their tailored pricing models that cater to both large pharmas and smaller biotech firms. Discover how Converge Bio's early product market fit is driving demand and shaping the future of drug development. In this episode, Dov also sheds light on the company's strategic journey from inception in 2024 to raising $6 million in seed funding. He emphasizes the importance of a strong team and customer validation in building a successful startup. Tune in to explore the transformative potential of AI in life sciences and Converge Bio's mission to deliver better medications to patients worldwide. Show Notes: 00:00 Entrepreneurial Journey in Biotech 04:29 Pharma Belief Divide 09:11 Building a Successful Startup Team 09:51 Early Stage Startups: Team Focus Importance 13:18 Exploring Converged Bio's Journey Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/converge-bio-raises-5-5-million-in-seed-round Dov Gertz's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dov-gertz-20612b145/ Converge Bio's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/converge-bio/ Converge Bio's Website: https://converge-bio.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Arbolus Raises $25M to Connect Investors with an Expert Network and Data

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2025 18:56


    In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, we're excited to bring you a conversation with Sam Glasswell, co-founder and CEO of Arbolus, a trailblazing platform in the expert network arena. Sam takes us through his remarkable journey from a potential legal career to leading an innovative company that's reshaping how investors and consulting firms obtain and utilize expert knowledge. Arbolus stands out by fusing technology with traditional expert network brokerage models, creating a more efficient way for users to gather and analyze insights. Sam shares how the company's unique approach is driving significant growth, even amid market fluctuations, by transitioning clients from conventional providers to Arbolus's cutting-edge platform. The discussion delves into Arbolus's product offerings, their focus on data integration, and the company's vision for scaling and enhancing their services. For anyone interested in SaaS business strategies, fundraising, or the integration of data-driven platforms, this episode is a treasure trove of insights. Tune in to discover how Arbolus is leading the charge in reducing friction to insight within the investment community, and gain valuable knowledge applicable to various industries. Show Notes: 00:00 Efficient Insight Through Technology 04:03 Private Equity in B2B SaaS 07:47 Client Growth and Data-Driven Sales 11:43 Blended Growth Equity Investment Partner 14:53 Early Engagement Key to Series B Success 16:20 "Key Business Growth Metrics" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/arbolus-raises-20-million-in-funding Sam Glasswell's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-glasswell-47273b10/ Arbolus' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arbolus/ Arbolus' Website: https://www.arbolus.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Revisto Raises $6M to Accelerate the Pharma Marketing Process

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2025 18:59


    In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, host Ben Murray sits down with Ferry Tamtoro, the visionary CEO and co-founder of Revisto, to explore the dynamic intersection of life sciences and technology. Ferry shares his remarkable journey transitioning from the corporate sector to the world of startups, fueled by a passion for healthcare innovation. Discover how his drive to make a significant impact led to the foundation of Revisto, a company at the forefront of using AI to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of marketing material creation for life sciences companies. Throughout the conversation, Ferry delves into the unique challenges faced by pharmaceutical companies in their marketing endeavors, emphasizing the importance of navigating rigorous review processes. He articulates how Revisto's AI-powered solutions are revolutionizing these processes, enabling quicker market entries for pharmaceutical products while ensuring compliance and competitive differentiation. With an insightful look into the company's land-and-expand business strategy, Ferry highlights the critical role of customer ROI and how Revisto's offerings lead to significant time and effort savings. Listeners will also gain valuable insights from Ferry's experiences in fundraising, underscoring the importance of aligning with investors who bring diverse expertise to the table. As Revisto continues to scale, Ferry shares the company's exciting roadmap, focused on expanding their team and refining their products to meet the growing demand for AI-driven solutions in the pharma sector. Join us to explore how Ferry Tamtoro and Revisto are shaping the future of marketing in the life sciences industry. Show Notes: 00:00 AI-Accelerated Life Sciences Marketing 04:29 Avoiding FDA Reputational Damage 08:36 Networking and Event Connections 11:06 Top Pharma Product Expansion 14:24 Maximizing Pharma ROI with Software 17:27 Investing in Team and Product Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/revisto-raises-4-million-in-seed-round Ferry Tamtoro's LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ferrytamtoro/ Revisto's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/revisto-inc/ Revisto's Website: https://www.revisto.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    $15M Raised to Secure the Software and Hardware Infrastructure of Facilities

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2025 20:28


    Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Nitesh Trikha, the CEO of Neeve, to explore his extensive journey in the tech industry. With roots tracing back to 1996, Nitesh has evolved from a software programmer working on early Java technologies to holding pivotal roles at industry giants like Cisco. Now at the helm of Neeve, he is leading innovative efforts to enhance building infrastructure with cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions and cloud-native operations. Nitesh introduces us to Neeve, a cloud platform as a service company focused on creating smarter and more secure buildings. He explains the importance of securing various operational technologies within these spaces, ensuring seamless integration from HVAC systems to smart lighting and beyond. As Neeve tackles vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure, Nitesh sheds light on the significance of cybersecurity in modern commercial real estate and highlights Neeve's global presence across 650 buildings. Looking ahead, Nitesh discusses Neeve's strategic growth including their evolving go-to-market strategy and successful fundraising ventures. He emphasizes the importance of fostering genuine partnerships with customers and investors and shares insights on scaling the business with new products and geographical expansions. Tune in to discover the exciting future of Neeve and the transformative potential of technology in building security! Show Notes: 00:00 Career Journey: Tech Evolution Since 1996 05:14 Smart Window Technology Expansion 07:02 Smart Building Infrastructure and Security 10:52 Customer-Centric REIT Partnership Evolution 15:23 "Building Independence Post-Graduation" 18:55 Geographical and Product Expansion Strategy 20:01 Neeve Expansion Insights Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/neeve-secures-15-million-in-funding Nitesh Trikha's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niteshtrikha/ Neeve's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/neeve-ai/ Neeve's Website: https://neeve.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    $2.2M Seed Round to Transform Learning in Corporate Training Departments

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2025 22:15


    Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, host Ben Murray sits down with Luis Garcia, the innovative president and co-founder of Pete, to unravel his inspiring journey. From his early days as a software engineer in Venezuela to launching a leading online university in the U.S., Luis shares key experiences that shaped his path in the world of digital education. Luis dives deep into the challenges of creating effective digital education materials and evaluating learning outcomes. He explains how Pete harnesses the power of generative AI to address these challenges, providing scalable training solutions for companies looking to enhance their workforce learning without extensive resources. Learn how Pete transforms existing materials into engaging courses and creates interactive learning experiences that effectively evaluate understanding. The episode also explores Pete's impressive growth trajectory and the potential of AI to revolutionize online education. With 16 customers and counting, Pete is poised for further expansion, demonstrating the increasing demand for innovative learning solutions. Listen in to discover Luis's vision for the future of corporate education and how Pete is setting the stage for transformative change in the industry. Show Notes: 00:00 Software Engineer Turned Education Pioneer 03:35 Rethinking Learning Evaluation Methods 09:35 Simulation Engine for Learning Scenarios 10:57 Collaborative Course Creation Model 14:55 Initial Cash Infusion and Growth 17:20 Community Investment and Job Growth 20:00 AI Boosts EdTech and Growth Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/pete-secures-2-million-in-seed-round Luis Garcia's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luisegarcia/ Pete's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pete-learning/ Pete's Website: https://www.pete.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    1Q25 Software M&A Update with Jim Williams

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2025 55:52


    Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this special edition, our host Ben Murray is joined once again by Jim Williams, Managing Director at GLC Advisors, to delve into the dynamic world of software mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Jim brings his wealth of experience and insights to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of the market, including recent trends, deal volumes, and valuations. Ben and Jim explore the essential metrics that SaaS founders need to focus on, such as retention rates, growth, and gross margins. They discuss the importance of understanding your business model and revenue streams, especially in today's fluctuating market. Whether you're considering an exit or aiming to scale, their discussion provides actionable advice on how to prepare your business for potential acquisition and the type of deal structures you might encounter. Topping it all off, Jim shares his optimistic forecast for 2025, discussing the potential for increased deal volumes, better valuations, and the exciting opportunities for both platform and add-on deals. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intricacies of the SaaS M&A landscape. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation filled with practical advice and expert predictions! Show Notes: 00:00 Software M&A Market Trends 06:01 Evolving SaaS Revenue Models 06:50 Evaluating Revenue Models for Investors 12:48 Clear Storytelling for Business Success 16:15 Navigating Valuation Gaps in Markets 19:15 High Multiples for Top Businesses 20:24 Market Challenges in Business Quality 24:37 Sponsor Leverage in Platform Deals 29:15 Cash Out or Rollover Equity? 33:08 Equity Ownership and Commitment Terms 36:46 Seller's Market: Scarcity Premiums Heightened 38:53 Expect 60-Day Deal Processes 42:50 Scaling Business: Key Considerations and Risks 46:00 Retention's Impact on Valuation 48:26 Founders Can Still Achieve Multiples 53:46 Optimism for Future Business Deals 55:11 Contact Us for Capital Updates Links: Jim Williams LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-williams-5754953/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Tabs Raises $40M to Automate the B2B Revenue Cycle

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2025 32:55


    Welcome to another episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to introduce Ali Hussain, CEO and co-founder of Tabs, a game-changing platform in the B2B revenue management space. With a rich background ranging from the Midwest to stints in academia, consulting, and eventually tech entrepreneurship, Ali brings a wealth of experience and insights to our show. Ali shares his journey from being a NetSuite user grappling with 12 to 18-month digital transformations, to pioneering Tabs, a platform designed to simplify and automate the revenue process using AI and LLM technologies. We dive deep into how Tabs revolutionizes the traditional quote-to-cash cycle, focusing on post-deal-closure activities to drive efficiency and reduce onboarding risks. Ali also discusses the importance of CFOs investing in technology for back-office efficiencies, the growing stature of the CFO role, and how Tabs is helping companies manage complex B2B revenue streams seamlessly. Tune in to learn more about Ali's vision for Tabs, their impressive early growth, and how they're helping businesses automate and optimize their revenue processes. Whether you're a SaaS CFO, a financial professional, or interested in the latest fintech innovations, this episode is packed with invaluable insights and practical advice. Don't miss it! Show Notes: 00:00 Early Market Entry of Tabs 05:25 Streamlining SaaS Finance with AI 07:46 Horizontal Product Expansion Benefits 10:24 Consolidation in AP Spend 16:27 CFO Tech Adoption Trends 17:42 Balancing CFO Duties and Tech Choices 21:34 Strategic Partnerships and Networking Impact 26:48 "Demonstrating Pipeline and ARR Mastery" 30:20 Timely Invoicing Beats AI Tricks 31:28 Gaining Traction in B2B Finance Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/tabs-secures-25-million-in-series-a-funding Ali Hussain's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ali-hussain786/ Tabs' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/teamtabs/ Tabs' Website: https://tabs.inc/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    $5.5M Raised to Help Contractors with Construction Site Management

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2025 22:23


    Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, our host Ben Murray is thrilled to welcome Matt Perrott, the co-founder and CEO of BuildPass. Matt shares his journey from being a software engineer to leading a company that offers an AI-powered operating system for construction sites. We'll delve into the unique features of BuildPass, including its applications in both commercial and residential projects, and its impressive growth trajectory. Matt gives us an inside look at BuildPass's expansion strategies, highlighting their upcoming launch in the U.S., and how they're adapting to different regulatory environments. He also shares candid insights about their successful fundraising efforts, the repeatable sales motions they've established, and the challenges of expanding into new markets. Join us as Matt discusses the importance of capital efficiency, AI development, and their ambitious plans for future growth. Whether you're a SaaS enthusiast or a construction technology buff, this episode is packed with valuable insights and lessons learned from Matt's journey. Tune in now to hear more about BuildPass and its innovative contributions to the construction industry! Show Notes: 00:00 Consumer-Centric Construction Software 05:56 Revenue Growth and Profit Margins 07:56 Sales-Driven Strategy with Strong Marketing 09:49 Personalized Sales Calls Strategy 15:14 Strategic Fundraising and Networking Insights 15:58 Investor Caution and Market Dynamics 19:13 Strategic US Market Entry Plan 22:19 "Casual Chat with Ben" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/buildpass-raises-7-5-million-in-seed-round Matt Perrott's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perrott/ BuildPass' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildpass/ BuildPass' Website: https://www.buildpass.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    PE Investment in LumiQ to Educate the Accounting Profession

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2025 30:35


    Welcome back to another insightful episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we have an enlightening conversation with Michael Kravshik, the co-founder and CEO of LumiQ. Starting from its humble beginnings between 2015 and 2016, LumiQ has evolved from a recruitment-focused product for CPAs to a leading platform in CPA education, officially launched in 2019. Now operating across North America with a dedicated team in Toronto, LumiQ has achieved impressive milestones, including surpassing an annual recurring revenue of $10 million and securing its first institutional funding through a private equity deal. Join us as Michael shares his journey in transitioning from traditional CPA roles to innovative banking security, and the entrepreneurial path that led him to creating LumiQ. We'll dive into LumiQ's unique monetization strategies, their go-to-market approach, and the intricate process of maintaining and expanding CPE credits for finance professionals. Michael also provides valuable insights on fundraising, the importance of transparency with investors, and the impacts of cultural differences on business growth. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of SaaS financial leadership and learn from Michael's firsthand experiences and strategic outlook. Show Notes: 00:00 Founded Lumiq, an educational podcasting platform. 04:20 Content and platform integration ensures compliance. 07:19 Founded in 2015-16; launched Lumaq in 2019. 12:05 Initially targeted small businesses, expanded to accounting firms. 15:02 Focused on sustainable, cashflow-positive business growth. 16:51 We prioritized transparency, fostering strong investor trust. 21:49 Canadians less risk-taking, impacting growth and stability. 25:51 Alignment with partners is crucial for success. 27:44 ARR and cash are primary focus metrics. 30:38 Caring deeply about CPAs drives success. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/lumiq-secures-funding-round Michael Kravshik's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelkravshik/ LumiQ's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lumiqlearn/ LumiQ's Website: https://lumiqlearn.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    $1.4M Raised to Use AI Models to Boost Farming Yields

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2025 24:07


    In this episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast, we're excited to welcome Freddie Monk, the co-founder and CEO of Aya Data. Freddie takes us through his incredible journey from working as a strategy consultant at EY in London to moving to Ghana, where he co-founded Aya Data with a Ghanaian friend and their previous boss. Freddie's unique path illustrates the potential of talent and innovation in Ghana, as well as the opportunities he saw to create socially impactful business ventures. Freddie sheds light on how Aya Data evolved from providing data annotation services to becoming a full-service AI consultancy firm. He dives into Aya Data's significant projects, including a precision agriculture platform that leverages remote sensing data and custom AI models to provide tree-level or plant-level analytics. Additionally, he talks about their second SaaS product, which is an African language speech solution designed to democratize communication for those who can't read or write in English or French. We also explore the vibrant tech landscape in Ghana and Aya Data's recent pre-seed funding round of $900K, which is set to propel their growth even further. Freddie discusses their mission to scale their SaaS products, the importance of protecting proprietary data, and the strategic plans for expansion into new global markets. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in AI, agriculture, global tech innovation, and the burgeoning opportunities within the African tech ecosystem. Tune in to be inspired by Freddie's story and the groundbreaking work of Aya Data. Show Notes: 00:00 Excited for impactful work and entrepreneurial opportunities. 03:03 Harness Ghana's talent, create jobs, provide services. 07:29 Primary customers: big farms; secondary: insurance, investment. 10:31 Mobile payments grow; medical tech innovates solutions. 16:23 Validating milestones, major partnerships, protectable IP achievements. 19:51 V7 Labs' data room template aids fundraising success. 22:49 Investing to scale SaaS products globally. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/aya-data-raises-900k-in-seed-round Freddie Monk's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/freddie-monk-38347456/ Aya Data's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aya-data/ Aya Data's Website: https://www.ayadata.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    1.4M CAD Raised to Build the Modern API Integrator

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2024 18:54


    Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Roy Pereira, the CEO and co-founder of Unified. Roy's journey through the tech world is nothing short of captivating; from dropping out of university to jumpstart his entrepreneurial career, to navigating the ins and outs of Silicon Valley, and eventually founding multiple startups. Unified, his latest venture, provides an innovative API integration infrastructure that saves SaaS companies valuable time and resources. Join us as Roy delves into the specifics of Unified's services, the challenges and triumphs of building API integrations, and the strategic evolution of their pricing models. We also discuss the startup's unique approach to inbound marketing, their lean yet efficient team dynamics, and the arduous but rewarding path of fundraising in today's market. Roy shares invaluable advice for fellow SaaS founders and gives us a glimpse of what's on the horizon for Unified. Don't miss this insightful episode packed with practical wisdom and entrepreneurial inspiration! Show Notes: 00:00 Unified to: Simplifies API integration, saves time. 05:21 Developed new, customer-friendly, sliding scale pricing model. 08:34 Founded in 2023; automated platform for efficiency. 13:24 Raising funds is difficult; requires targeted networking. 16:05 Metrics-focused meetings emphasize KPIs and customer journeys. 17:30 Expanding API integrations; aiming for 500 total. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/unified-to-secures-1-1m-cad-in-pre-seed-round Roy Pereira's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roypereira/ Unified's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unified-to/ Unified's Website: https://unified.to/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    4.4M Raised to Create Enterprise Software Products with AI Agents

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 10, 2024 22:29


    Welcome to another enlightening episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to host Brian Elliott, CEO and co-founder of Blitzy—a groundbreaking company pushing the boundaries of software development through AI. Brian's journey is nothing short of inspiring, starting from his education and service at West Point and Army Special Operations, to Harvard Business School, where he met his co-founder, Sid, and laid the foundation for what would become Blitzy. Their mission? To democratize and accelerate software development using cutting-edge AI technologies. In our conversation, Brian delves into the nitty-gritty of building a tech startup from the ground up. He recounts the initial spark for Blitzy, which began as a pro bono project for a local bakery, and how it quickly evolved into a robust platform serving major enterprises, especially in finance and insurance. He elaborates on the unique value proposition of Blitzy—generating enterprise-quality code at breakneck speeds, dramatically compressing development cycles, and offering unparalleled efficiency. We also look ahead to the future of SaaS, contemplating how innovations like Blitzy might reshape the industry landscape. With discussions on product development, pricing, and go-to-market strategies, Brian provides a wealth of insights that are sure to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals alike. So, plug in those headphones and join us for a captivating discussion that bridges technology, business, and innovation. Show Notes: 00:00 Served Army, founded Blitzy using AI innovations. 04:52 Achieved enterprise software breakthrough, patenting technological innovations. 06:25 Expensive product tailored for businesses' code needs. 10:31 Extensible full-cycle system for legacy tech industries. 15:55 Boston's ecosystem excellent for attracting talented researchers. 18:49 Revenue focus; manage pipeline; assess code quality. 20:12 Converted service customers to engaged SaaS users. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/blitzy-raises-4-4-million-in-funding Brian Elliott's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briancelliott/ Blitzy's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/blitzyai/ Blitzy's Website: https://blitzy.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    $8M Series A to Build an All In One Shipping Management Software

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2024 27:14


    Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we're excited to bring you an insightful conversation with Mohammad AlRazaz, the co-founder and CEO of OTO. Mohammad's journey is nothing short of remarkable—from his beginnings in electrical engineering to his leap into the startup world, and eventually founding OTO, a revolutionary shipping gateway. This platform empowers small and medium-sized businesses to level the playing field against industry giants like Amazon by offering an all-in-one shipping management solution. Throughout our discussion, Mohammad sheds light on the origins and rapid growth of OTO. He explains how the company initially targeted omnichannel clients but quickly expanded to serve a wide range of e-commerce businesses. Mohammad also shares their strategic shift from a sales-led approach to a product-led growth model, allowing 80% of their clients to onboard without human interaction. This episode is packed with practical insights, including their fundraising journey which culminated in a successful Series A round, and the vital metrics that guide their business decisions. As we dive deeper, you'll hear Mohammad's valuable advice for other SaaS founders, especially those eyeing their Series A. He emphasizes the importance of identifying key milestones, the challenges of fundraising, and strategies for global expansion. If you're keen on understanding how to scale a startup and compete with major players, this episode is a must-watch. So, sit back, relax, and let's learn from Mohammad AlRazaz's incredible journey with OTO. Show Notes: 00:00 Engineer turned entrepreneur; excels in business ventures. 06:58 Auto facilitates shipping and warehouse management growth. 08:50 Started in auto, thrived connecting during COVID. 12:06 Fast-growing SaaS company raised $3 million seed. 15:01 Shifted to PLG for customer acquisition success. 18:32 Expanding to Turkey requires localization and investment. 22:02 Fundraising consumes time, prioritize building and scaling. 25:36 Expanding businesses in MENA, GCC, and beyond. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/riyadh-based-saas-startup-oto-raises-3-million-in-seed-round Mohammad AlRazaz's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malrazaz/ Oto's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tryotocom/ Oto's Website: https://tryoto.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    850K Raised to Reach the Right Prospect at the Right Time

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2024 24:48


    Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to host Mark Walker, the visionary co-founder of Revved Up. With a dynamic background ranging from the events industry to pivotal roles in tech and SaaS, including growth leadership at Eventbrite and various startups, Mark's journey is packed with insights on building and scaling go-to-market teams. His unique career trajectory and vast experience offer a wealth of knowledge for anyone navigating the fast-paced world of tech startups. In this episode, Mark introduces us to Revved Up, an innovative platform leveraging AI to transform account-based marketing. Born from Mark's challenges as a CRO in ensuring consistent, relevant outreach, Revved Up provides scalable research and bespoke content. Its mission is to simplify lead generation and enhance engagement with prospects. Mark's insights on AI in marketing are sure to inspire SaaS founders and marketers looking to innovate and optimize their strategies. Additionally, Mark shares his fundraising journey, having raised nearly a million dollars in pre-seed funding to propel Revved Up's growth. From initial struggles to oversubscribed rounds, his experiences yield invaluable lessons for other founders. With their headquarters in London and a remote team spanning continents, Revved Up is on an exciting trajectory. As Mark and his team gear up for the next phase, we'll get a sneak peek into what's ahead. Whether you're intrigued by AI, SaaS marketing, or startup funding, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration. So sit back, relax, and let's dive in! Show Notes: 00:00 Revved Up focuses on educating and resonating buyers. 04:22 Scaling ABM principles for outreach across markets. 08:47 AI tools personalize large, complex deals efficiently. 12:34 Improving UX and surprising clients with AI. 14:04 Raised large pre-seed due to high interest. 19:38 Expanding team aligns with tools' effectiveness improvement. 21:16 Aim: Increase response rate to 5%. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/revvedup-raises-850k-pre-seed-round Mark Walker's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jfdimark/ Revved Up's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/revvedupai/ Revved Up's Website: https://revvedup.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    Fathom Raises a $17M Series A to Boost Your Productivity

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2024 25:27


    Welcome to another riveting episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! I'm your host, Ben, and today we have an extraordinary guest with us—Richard White, the founder and CEO of Fathom. With a background as a computer scientist, Richard quickly transitioned into the world of product design and has since become a pioneer in AI-powered software. He honed his skills and experience during his time with Y Combinator and through his previous venture, UserVoice, which laid the groundwork for his current success. Today, Fathom stands as the number one rated AI note taker on G2, making waves with its innovative approach to simplifying meeting notes and enhancing productivity. In our conversation, Richard opens up about the unique fundraising strategies that powered Fathom's growth, including an impressive $27.3 million raised across multiple tranches and a notable series A. He also shares his insights on the evolving landscape of AI in SaaS products, discussing the challenges and opportunities that come with integrating advanced AI capabilities. Richard's perspective on the importance of user satisfaction, exemplified by Fathom's world-class NPS score, offers valuable lessons for any SaaS professional aiming to build products that not only solve problems but delight users. Whether you're a startup enthusiast, a seasoned SaaS executive, or someone intrigued by the future of AI in business, today's episode is brimming with insights you won't want to miss. Richard's passion for creating products that truly enhance user experience and his strategic approach to building a successful SaaS company provide a goldmine of knowledge. So sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by Richard White's remarkable journey and the innovative work happening at Fathom. Let's dive into the conversation! Show Notes: 00:00 Fathom: free AI notetaker, popular, premium options. 05:54 Fortunate entry into Zoom marketplace accelerated success. 08:05 Aggressive Moore's Law application, Amazon-style long-term strategy. 12:47 Unique, coalition-building fundraising strategy with small checks. 14:51 Series A expectations now demand fully developed businesses. 17:57 Founder prefers direct approach over lengthy fundraising. 22:55 Monthly meetings assess MPS scores, engage customers. 23:47 Surfing AI wave: Insightful tools for teams. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/fathom-raises-17-million-in-series-a Richard White's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rrwhite/ Fathom's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fathom-video/ Fathom's Website: https://fathom.video/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    $4.8M Raised to Improve Customer Purchase Experience on Stripe

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2024 19:33


    Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we are thrilled to have Flynn Glover, co-founder and CEO of Schematic, join us for an insightful conversation. Flynn takes us through his entrepreneurial journey, from aspiring soccer player to successful entrepreneur. He shares how his first company, which started as a location-based app, evolved into a content marketing software and eventually got acquired. Flynn then dives into his current venture, Schematic, a platform that enhances Stripe for developers by managing the complexities of pricing and packaging for B2B SaaS companies. He explains how Schematic helps startups by offloading the infrastructural burden around Stripe, enabling them to focus on core product development. Flynn also discusses Schematic's unique approach to both early-stage and more established companies, and their recent public availability launch. With a solid blend of personal stories, strategic insights, and practical advice, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways for any SaaS founder. Flynn shares his experience with fundraising, customer acquisition, and the innovative solutions Schematic brings to the table. Don't miss out on this engaging and informative episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Show Notes: 00:00 Supercharging Stripe for developers' pricing infrastructure. 05:54 Focus: aiding engineering to optimize tiered offerings. 07:15 Early-stage companies prefer Schematic's easy implementation. 10:47 Founder hustle: referrals, stories; content-driven marketing. 13:46 Key milestone: Real customers trust product production. 17:53 Early stages, need pricing models, improve onboarding. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/schematic-raises-4-8-million-in-seed-round Flynn Glover's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fynn-glover-b0410015/ Schematic HQ's: https://www.linkedin.com/company/schematichq/ Schematic HQ's Website: https://schematichq.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS etrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    $3M Pre-seed Round to Make E-signatures Free

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2024 32:15


    Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In this episode, we're thrilled to have Marty Ringlein, CEO and co-founder of Agree.com, joining us to share his invaluable insights on navigating the startup landscape. Marty brings a wealth of experience, from leading multiple successful startups to high-profile acquisitions by giants like Twitter and Eventbrite. In today's discussion, Marty delves into the significance of perfecting your pitch through frequent practice, the importance of building investor relationships before seeking funds, and the innovative solutions his company offers. Agree.com is revolutionizing the e-signature, invoicing, and payment processing space, employing cutting-edge technology like OCR and generative AI to streamline workflows and ensure data privacy. We'll explore how Marty's team of six operates remotely across different time zones, driving rapid development and user growth. Marty also shares some unconventional yet effective guerrilla marketing strategies that have helped Agree.com gain traction, along with his journey in securing a $3 million pre-seed fund. Additionally, we'll cover practical advice for SaaS entrepreneurs on fundraising and standing out in a crowded market. From novel product features to Marty's forward-thinking approach to business operations, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories. Tune in to learn from one of the industry's most dynamic leaders! Show Notes: 00:00 E-signature challenges: contract completion, payment integration. 03:27 Generative AI boosts OCR accuracy for invoices. 08:02 $50M threshold: key for organizational collaboration activation. 10:28 MVP facilitates bank transactions via Stripe integration. 14:53 Tracking users and signature numbers for engagement. 17:49 Inserts promotional cards into magazines at airports. 20:21 Capital needed to compete against major incumbents. 25:37 Build early relationships and stand out uniquely. 26:48 Originality matters over following predictable strategies. 30:39 AR, AP automation optimizes financial and sales processes. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/agreecom-secures-3m-in-pre-seed-round Marty Ringlein's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martymadrid/ Agree's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/agreehq/ Agree's Website: https://agree.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    $25M Raised to Help Outpatient Clinicians Collect More Revenue

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2024 49:28


    Welcome to another insightful episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to have Paul Singh, the dynamic CEO of Strata, join us for an in-depth conversation. With a rich background ranging from web hosting and angel investing to co-founding a venture firm and launching a subscription box company, Paul brings a wealth of experience and unique perspectives. In this episode, we'll explore the intricacies of Strata's innovative billing-aware practice management platform which streamlines everything from EMR and scheduling to marketing. Paul delves into the company's efficient client onboarding process, their unique sales model involving clinicians as sales reps, and the strategic decision to raise $25 million after a decade of being bootstrapped. We'll also discuss the significant impact Strata has on its clients, improving both financial and patient outcomes, and the company's focus on key metrics like patient visits and unit transactions. Paul shares his philosophy of optimizing for fun and profit, his strategic approach to fundraising, and the importance of selecting the right growth partners. Tune in as Paul provides valuable insights into running a SaaS business, navigating the challenges of the healthcare software industry, and his visionary approach to integrating various medical disciplines into Strata's comprehensive platform. Get ready to learn, be inspired, and gain actionable ideas for your own SaaS journey. Show Notes: 00:00 Evolved businesses, fatherhood; founded Bump, Strata. 04:31 Billing-aware practice management platform for outpatient services. 08:47 Managing medical practices requires adaptable, varied strategies. 10:18 Variable revenue through collection percentage, no software fee. 13:51 EMR prices rising, focusing on patient visits. 19:25 Evolving into tech-focused company for profitability. 20:34 Navigating company culture while reinventing ourselves. 25:27 Email-gated chart identifies marketing qualified leads. 29:01 Guidance for profit-driven hire and onboarding process. 31:05 Maximizing sales by educating customers on opportunities. 35:05 Reflecting on life's time, fundraising challenges ensued. 36:47 Starting a business is stressful, needs guidance. 40:25 Optimizing for freedom, power, money, fun, profit. 43:10 Money can't solve this industry's unique challenges. 45:54 Track North Star and growth metrics monthly. 49:11 Insightful episode worth sharing with SaaS community. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/stratapt-raises-25-million-in-funding Paul Singh's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulsingh/ StrataPT's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stratapt/ StrataPT's Website: https://www.stratapt.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    4M Pre-seed Round to Provide a Gen AI Digital Coach to Frontline Workers

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2024 21:43


    Greetings, SaaS CFO enthusiasts! In this episode, we have a fascinating conversation with Bilal Tahris, the co-founder and CEO of FlowIt, a company revolutionizing people development through its AI-powered digital coach. Bilal's journey is nothing short of extraordinary—starting out as a diesel mechanic apprentice, he transitioned to helming his family business before diving into the SaaS realm. Join our host, Ben, as Bilal shares how FlowIt focuses on sectors often overlooked, such as healthcare, manufacturing, and hospitality, and aims to improve employee engagement and retention. We delve into the unique modules FlowIt offers, designed to connect with frontline workers and address their specific needs. Bilal articulates how the company's innovative approach not only gathers insights through frequent, efficient surveys but also leverages AI to provide valuable, actionable feedback to leadership. We also explore FlowIt's impressive growth and strategic expansion plans into the German and Nordic markets, with an eye on entering the Americas. Bilal opens up about their successful fundraising journey, sharing valuable lessons and tips for other founders navigating similar paths. Whether you're an aspiring SaaS founder or simply intrigued by innovative business solutions, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Tune in! Show Notes: 00:00 Engaging frontline workers through digital development. 05:38 AI enhances company insights and decision-making efficiently. 08:29 Newly unified employee platform expands in modules. 12:10 Decided to fundraise 3 million Swiss francs. 16:56 Secure strong investors early; double VC prospects. 18:22 Insight on aligning timelines and key metrics. 21:30 Learn more about Bilal's journey at Flowit AI. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/flowit-raises-4-2-million-in-seed-round Bilal Tahris' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bil%C3%A2l-tahris-9074b320/ FlowIt's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flowit-ag/ FlowIt's Website: https://www.flowit.ai/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    $2M Pre-seed to Simplify Franchisor Franchisee Operations with AI

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2024 19:22


    Welcome back to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, we're thrilled to have Gary Liskovich, the co-founder and CEO of Harmonyze, join us. Gary's journey is nothing short of fascinating—starting as a mechanical engineer, his career transitioned from academic research to working with cutting-edge technology at Deloitte and Evolution IQ. Today, he's channeling his diverse experiences into revolutionizing the franchise industry through Harmonyze. We'll dive into how Gary and his team use AI to streamline operations, compliance, and decision-making for franchisors, making them more profitable and efficient. Gary explains the intricate dynamics between franchisors and franchisees and how Harmonyze's AI agent technology simplifies complex tasks and aggregates data to reduce risk and enhance cohesion within franchise networks. Plus, we'll discuss the challenges and strategies of building and scaling a SaaS company from the ground up. Gary shares insights from Harmonyze's early days, including their Pre-Seed fundraising journey and the philosophy behind their product development. Whether you're a startup enthusiast, an AI aficionado, or someone intrigued by the nuances of franchising, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Let's get started! Show Notes: 00:00 AI streamlined complex insurance claims management. 05:32 AI enhances relationships and value across franchise locations. 07:11 System analyzes franchises for overlaps, expirations. 12:27 Founder-led, product-driven, learning-focused seed stage startup. 14:46 Educating investors on franchising challenges through storytelling. 18:12 Focus on solving problems, not features. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/harmonyze-secures-2-million-in-pre-seed-round Gary Liskovich's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-liskovich/ Harmonyze's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/harmonyze/ Harmonyze's Website: https://www.harmonyze.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    $20M Raised to Help Enterprises Govern and Scale Their AI Initiatives

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2024 25:58


    Welcome to another exciting episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we have the pleasure of hosting Pete Foley, the dynamic CEO and co-founder of ModelOp. With a rich background as a serial entrepreneur, Pete has successfully launched and sold several companies in the enterprise software space, including notable names like Infoblox and a thriving security company out of Israel. Now, Pete's latest venture, ModelOp, is pioneering in the rapidly growing field of AI governance, helping enterprises seamlessly and safely integrate AI models into their operations. ModelOp offers an enterprise software designed to ensure compliance with internal and external regulations while maintaining the efficacy of AI models. This innovative approach positions ModelOp at the forefront of the AI market, which continues to expand at an unprecedented pace. In this episode, Pete shares invaluable insights into his journey, market dynamics, and the strategic vision driving ModelOp forward. Whether you're interested in AI, SaaS, or entrepreneurial growth, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Tune in for an in-depth conversation packed with industry expertise and forward-looking perspectives. Show Notes: 00:00 Exited tech startups, ventured into emerging AI market. 03:43 Enterprise software for AI governance and orchestration. 07:49 AI interest spans all industries, emphasizing global opportunities. 09:58 Emerging Chief AI Officer role within organizations. 14:00 AI attracts significant attention and market tailwind. 19:09 Competitive advantage and strong multi-year contracts secured. 22:16 Understanding market maturity prevents over-investment mistakes. 23:44 ARR reflects growth and competitive advantage focus. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/modelop-raises-10-million-in-series-b Pete Foley's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petefoley2/ ModelOp's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/modelop/ ModelOp's Website: https://www.modelop.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    $77M Raised to Dominate the Laundromat Vertical

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2024 31:09


    Welcome to another episode of The SaaS CFO Podcast! Today, we're thrilled to have a special guest, Alex Jekowsky, co-founder and CEO of Cents, as he joins our host, Ben, to delve into the dynamic world of modern laundromat management. Alex's unique journey from founding a payments platform for college campuses to investing in laundromats led him to identify a significant gap in sophisticated software solutions for the industry. In this episode, we'll explore how Cents provides an all-in-one solution for laundromats, combining software and hardware to streamline operations and enhance customer experience. We'll also discuss the importance of a high-quality onboarding process to reduce churn, the role of fulfillment centers, and the company's strategic approach to revenue streams, including subscriptions, processing, and hardware sales. Alex will share insights on fundraising, emphasizing the importance of aligning with investors and the role of storytelling and metrics in securing capital. Tune in to discover how Cents is revolutionizing the laundromat industry, covering thousands of locations across the U.S., and aiming for triple-digit growth with innovative solutions and a dedicated team. If you're interested in the intersection of SaaS, fintech, and the laundry industry, you won't want to miss this informative and inspiring conversation. Stay tuned! Show Notes: 00:00 Considered investing in laundromats after Moto acquisition. 04:13 POS for laundromats enhances service management efficiency. 08:09 High-touch support with streamlined onboarding and implementation. 09:59 Focus on recurring revenue, hardware as loss leader. 15:28 Expanding laundry services across diverse real estate sectors. 17:51 Selling software and hardware through strong distribution. 21:13 Strategic M&A leverages market opportunities for growth. 24:04 Fundraise strategically; tailor stages to investors' expectations. 29:05 Focusing on innovation and deeper laundry industry integration. 30:25 Hiring for various roles; open to connections. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/cents-raises-40-million-in-series-b Alex Jekowsky's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajekowsky/ Cents LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trycents/ Cents Website: https://www.trycents.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

    $585K Pre-seed Roud to Maximize Qualified Leads on Salesforce

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2024 24:39


    Greetings, listeners! Today on The SaaS CFO Podcast, we have an exciting episode lined up for you. Our host, Ben, sits down with Sam Oliver, the founder and CEO of OpenFi. Sam's entrepreneurial journey is nothing short of inspiring, having been involved in the startup world for over 14 years with both successes and lessons learned from failures. Notably, Sam grew his previous company, Lead Pro, into a market leader before exiting in a multi-million pound deal. In this episode, Sam shares his insight into the motivations behind selling Lead Pro, the driving forces behind his current venture OpenFi, and the fascinating potential of conversational AI to transform sales processes. OpenFi, an innovative company specializing in automating the Sales Development Representative (SDR) role, aims to leverage AI to enhance follow-up efficiency, manage leads, and improve customer engagement. Sam provides an in-depth look at how OpenFi is poised to revolutionize professional services using Salesforce integration. Whether you're a founder, an investor, or a tech enthusiast curious about the future of AI in professional services, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Tune in to hear Sam's perspectives on building value, managing risks, and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead for OpenFi. Don't miss it! Show Notes: 00:00 Started company to solve problems, built value. 05:04 Impressed by AI, overcame doubts, founded company. 07:42 AI builds knowledge base, codifies sales script. 13:32 Third-time founders benefit from network, credibility. 14:34 Focus on targeted niche using Salesforce outreach. 20:45 Prefer direct customer sales over fundraising. 23:11 Excited for robust technology launch and scalability. Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/openfi-closes-585k-in-pre-seed-round Sam Oliver's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam0liver/ OpenFi's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/openfi-tech/ OpenFi's Website: https://openfi.tech/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

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