A New SaaS Marketplace for Freelancer Teams: Collective Launches

Collective, a French startup, has today introduced a software-as-a-service marketplace designed to connect and support freelancers who thrive in collaborative team environments. This launch is distinct from a similarly named US-based company focused on providing back-office solutions for solo self-employed individuals.

Founding and Backing

Co-founded by Jean de Rauglaudre and Vianney de Drouas, Collective benefits from the support of eFounders, a prominent SaaS-focused startup studio and venture builder. eFounders provides financial backing during the initial 18 months, with investment amounts typically reaching several thousand euros.

The Rise of Freelancer Collectives

De Rauglaudre explains that his experience as a freelancer sparked the idea for Collective, recognizing a growing trend of “independents teaming up to pool skills, networks, and methodologies.” This collaborative approach aims to accelerate progress, foster innovation, and enhance professional fulfillment.

The startup highlights existing successful collectives like ProductLed.Org and Knackcollective.com in the US, alongside Mozza.io, Alasta.io, and Lookoom.co in France, as evidence of this emerging model.

Pandemic-Driven Acceleration

The founders believe the COVID-19 pandemic has further fueled the growth of freelancer collectives. Businesses seeking greater resilience and flexibility are increasingly turning to these collaborative arrangements.

Developing the Collective Platform

Working closely with eFounders, the founders refined their concept. De Rauglaudre states, “We realized that a collective represents the next evolution in this market.” He notes that current collective structures often lack scalability, standardization, and dedicated support, unlike the resources available to individual freelancers.

Benefits for Freelancer Teams

Collective offers skilled independent workers the advantages of an agency – automated back-office functions for proposals, invoices, contracts, and payments – while preserving the flexibility of freelance work and project selection.

The platform promises a comprehensive back-office solution, including invoice management and payment follow-up. De Rauglaudre describes it as a “perfect combination of flexibility and security.” Addressing a common pain point for freelancers, Collective aims to streamline the financial aspects of collaborative projects.

Marketplace Visibility and Client Acquisition

Beyond back-office support, Collective provides increased marketplace visibility for freelancer teams, aiding in client acquisition.

Early Traction

Following a one-month soft launch, 18 collectives have already formed on the platform, representing a total of over 150 freelancers. These teams offer diverse expertise, including software development, design, product management, and growth marketing, and are currently collaborating with five companies.

Collective is also actively engaging with over 80 companies to expand its reach and scale its operations.

A Growing Trend

“The substantial interest from both independents and companies confirms our initial assessment,” de Rauglaudre notes. “People and organizations are seeking more adaptable work arrangements, and collaboration is key to achieving greater success.”

Addressing a Gap in the Market

Thibaud Elziere, co-founder of eFounders, emphasizes that while solo freelancers have access to dedicated platforms and legal frameworks, collectives often lack the necessary tools and support. Collective aims to fill this gap, providing a comprehensive solution for collectives to establish themselves, secure work, and grow.

The Expanding Independent Workforce

De Rauglaudre points to a significant increase in independent work over the past decade, with growth exceeding 150%. Research indicates that approximately one-fifth of freelancers are already working in collective arrangements, whether formally or informally.

“We estimate that over 10 million freelancers worldwide are participating in collectives, albeit in various forms,” he suggests. “They are motivated to collaborate to compete with agencies and enhance their work experience.”

Target Sectors and Skills

While Collective doesn’t prescribe a specific focus, it is initially prioritizing development efforts in areas like design, product, technology, data, and growth marketing. The platform is targeting large-scale startups and technology companies as potential clients.

Business Model

Currently, Collective operates on a markup model, charging clients a fee ranging from 5% to 15%. The fee varies depending on whether the platform actively sourced the client.

Once the SaaS platform is fully developed – anticipated within a month – a monthly subscription fee will also be introduced for collectives.

Potential Branding Considerations

Given the similarity in name to a US-based startup, the French team may consider a rebranding exercise. The term ‘Collectif’ could be a viable alternative.