solo-saas
Nathan Barry
ConvertKit / Kit
Bootstrapped from a designer's side-project into a $40M+ ARR email platform for creators.
Revenue
$40M+ ARR (reported)
Time to build
10+ years
Launched
2013
Location
The story
Nathan started ConvertKit while writing design books. Grew it slowly via direct outreach to creators he admired, then aggressively via affiliate program. Published growth publicly on his blog for years. Rebranded to Kit in 2024.
Stack
Rails
PostgreSQL
Reported metrics
ARR
$40M+
Team
~85
Public contact
The full build breakdown
Pro insight
Pro only
Unlock the full breakdown
Timeline, costs, revenue curve, marketing tactics with sources, growth channels, team, and lessons — all publicly-sourced.
Marketing tactics
- Direct outreachPersonally emailed top bloggers early
- Affiliate programCreators earn recurring for referrals
- Public MRR reportsCompounding social proof
Growth channels
Affiliatelarge
Recurring commissions
Content
Nathan's writing
Lessons
- Direct outreach still works for high-LTV customers
- Affiliate programs beat paid ads for creator SaaS
Publications & press mentions
Live searches across the biggest tech publications, podcasts and communities covering Nathan Barry.
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