ARRtist on AIR - Meaningful conversations with Software & AI leaders

221: How to build a 100 Mio. ARR Company in Vertical SaaS

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With Lucile Cornet - Partner at Eight Roads

In this engaging episode, Lucile Cornet, Partner at Eight Roads Ventures, joins the ARRtist on AIR Podcast to share her extensive expertise in vertical SaaS, and the transformative power of embedding finance and automation into SMB-focused software. Lucile discusses her journey from France to becoming a seasoned investor in the European SaaS space and offers actionable insights for founders looking to excel in niche markets. What you will learn:

Introduction to Lucile Cornet and Eight Roads Ventures (00:00)

  • Lucile's role and journey in venture capital.
  • Overview of Eight Roads Ventures and their global focus.

    • What is Vertical SaaS and Why it Matters (04:14)

    -Defining vertical SaaS and its role in serving SMBs.
    -The growing relevance of specialized SaaS solutions for niche markets.

    The Rise of SMB-focused Innovation (07:52)

    -How generational shifts in SMBs are driving demand for intuitive, integrated solutions.
    -Examples of successful vertical SaaS companies like Hero Software and ServiceTitan.

    Building Multi-Product Success (12:37)

    -The importance of expanding product offerings to grow ACVs.
    -Lessons from companies that have scaled their offerings effectively.

    Leveraging Embedded Finance (26:40)

    -Opportunities in adding financial services to vertical SaaS platforms.
    -Case studies on how lending, payroll, and reconciliation boost revenues and customer retention.

    Community Building as a Growth Strategy (36:10)

    -Using physical events and digital touchpoints to foster loyal customer bases.
    -Insights into regional networking events and online communities as accelerators of trust.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Vertical SaaS offers immense potential for SMBs, enabling tailored solutions with high engagement.
    • Expanding product lines and embedding financial services are critical levers for boosting revenues in vertical SaaS
    • Building communities around niche markets fosters customer loyalty and positions SaaS companies as industry leaders.

      • Our Guest:

      Lucile Cornet
      https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucilecornet/

      Our Host:

      Julius Göllner
      https://www.linkedin.com/in/julius-goellner/

      Unser Werbepartner:

      Float

      Float is an experienced and reliable partner for financing SaaS companies. Whether you want to extend your cash runway or invest in growth: Float offers flexible financing options for all your needs. More info: www.gofloat.io

      Mollie

      Let Mollie be your partner for smarter growth.
      You can find more information at www.mollie.com/arrtist

      Related AoA Shows:

      Episode with HERO
      Episode with sdui

      Restaurant Tipp:

      The River Cafe

      https://www.rivercafe.co.uk/

      Resources:

      Lucile's blog post around SME Vertical SaaS

      The SME Vertical SaaS 50 ranking

      ...more
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      ARRtist on AIR - Meaningful conversations with Software & AI leadersBy Jannis Bandorski, Julius Göllner and Matthias Ernst (Founder of B2B SaaS network ARRtist)