Seattle-based startup Zipwhip has just landed $22.5 million dollars in funding for its business text messaging platform. The platform enables businesses to text via their landline phones. This new investment comes via OpenView; previous investors Voyager Capital and Microsoft Ventures both continue to be active.
In under a year, Zipwhip has been able to double the amount of employees to 180 and increase monthly revenue by 60 percent. A major portion of its 6,000 customers comes from veterinary offices and car dealerships. Ten months ago, Zipwhip was able to raise $9 million dollars in a Series B investment round, thanks to Voyager and Microsoft. Business has improved their business ever since. It does not hurt that the products for texting are ready-to-use and include an API.
“The market for business texting software is literally every business. It’s a huge industry that arguably we created, and it is a new industry. There’s no reason not to go after it faster and harder,” said Zipwhip CEO, John Lauer.
Customers have this amazing ability to text with their businesses using landlines, VoIP services, as well as toll-free numbers, something that is vital when it comes connecting with active consumers and supporting high levels of satisfaction.
“We think texting software is as applicable as email software, which of course is then a huge market,” Lauer added.
OpenView’s managing partner Scott Maxwell also chimed in: “It’s clear that communication today is centered around messaging, but for too long, businesses have been behind on delivering an easy and intuitive way for their customers to get in touch. Zipwhip provides the answer through its game-changing software and platform.”
Texting through business landlines? Messaging truly is the dominating channel.