From College Classmates to $50 Million Success: How a Smart Side Hustle Solved a Common Household Problem in Just 4 Years
These College Classmates Started a Side Hustle to Solve a Common Household Problem — Then Scales It From $0 to Over $50 Million in Under 4 Years
Source: Entrepreneur
Key Takeaways
- Founders: Justin Soleimani and Zach Dannett began developing Tumble in Fall 2019, launching it in April 2021.
- Revenue Growth: They achieved $20 million in revenue within just 2.5 years, with projected mid-eight-figure revenue and a pathway to nine figures.
- Product Focus: The company offers machine-washable, spill-proof rugs specifically designed to address traditional rug maintenance issues.
Inspiration for Tumble
Identifying a Common Problem
The founders were frustrated with traditional rugs that were hard to maintain. They conducted customer interviews and reviewed competitor products to pinpoint issues such as:
- Insufficient cushioning
- Curling corners
- Difficulty in keeping rugs flat
They aimed to create a product that was not just convenient but also safe for children and pets, using non-toxic materials.
From Side Hustle to Full-Time Commitment
Initial Efforts
Before launching, Soleimani and Dannett worked long hours on Tumble while maintaining their jobs, spending a year on product development, including a successful crowdfunding campaign to raise initial capital.
Funding and Operations
The founders bootstrapped their business by investing their personal savings alongside crowdfunding contributions. They maintained profitability from the outset without seeking external capital, relying on cash flow for growth.
Challenges Along the Way
Navigating Supply Chain Issues
COVID presented significant challenges, including:
- Supply chain disruptions
- Increased shipping costs
- Regulatory changes affecting manufacturing
Strong communication and collaboration with suppliers were key in overcoming these obstacles.
Future Growth and Vision
Plans for Expansion
Tumble aims to expand its product line and explore new sales channels in 2025. With a growing team of over 10 employees, they are poised for continued success.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Commitment to Ideas
According to Soleimani, commitment to an idea is crucial, even without total certainty of success. He emphasizes:
- Choose a passion-driven idea.
- Be open to evolution while sticking to the original vision.
- Evaluate the right moment to leap into your venture.
Learning from Failure
Dannett encourages entrepreneurs not to fear failure, advocating for viewing setbacks as learning experiences that contribute to future success.
