Softr's Series A: No-Code Boom Continues

The Shift in Perspective on Low- and No-Code Development

Several years ago, discussions within the technology sector centered around the increasing prevalence of low- and no-code applications and services. A worldwide scarcity of skilled developers contributed to the development of software designed to simplify the creation process. However, some observers considered these no- and low-code tools as simply sophisticated methods for generating further technical debt.

A Change in the Conversation

Recently, these debates have subsided. Simultaneously, companies focused on building products with enhanced low-code capabilities, empowering individuals without technical expertise, have continued to progress.

Softr's Recent Funding

Softr exemplifies this trend, having recently announced a $13.5 million Series A funding round. TechCrunch previously reported on the startup’s seed funding in early 2021, which totaled $2.2 million in external investment.

Details of the Series A Round

FirstMarket Capital spearheaded Softr’s Series A, with participation from numerous individuals within the technology industry. Ashley Mayer, formerly with Box and Glossier, brought the deal to attention. AtlanticLabs, a previous investor, also contributed to the Softr Series A round.

What Does Softr Offer?

This Berlin-based startup enables users to construct applications utilizing Airtable databases. However, the company’s vision extends considerably beyond this current functionality.

Future Expansion Plans

According to an interview with Softr CEO Mariam Hakobyan, the company plans to broaden the range of databases compatible with its application-building software. Furthermore, it intends to establish a marketplace for both components – to augment Softr’s inherent capabilities – and pre-built templates for immediate application deployment.

Hakobyan envisions Softr evolving into a comprehensive ecosystem over time. Integrating support for platforms like Google Sheets and other data sources will be instrumental in achieving this goal.

The Rise of No-Code

Hakobyan believes that no-code services are “just taking over,” indicating a significant market shift.

She highlighted several factors driving the success of no-code – and, more broadly, lower-code – services in the current software landscape. A primary reason is the existing shortage of developers capable of meeting current demand. Her second point focused on generational trends.

According to Hakobyan, Generation Z possesses greater technological proficiency than previous generations, exhibits less interest in traditional employment, and actively seeks tools for independent creation.

The idea of GenZ accelerating the adoption of no-code resonates, though the underlying reasons require further investigation in the coming months.

Softr's Current Performance

Given the company’s relatively recent market entry, assessing year-over-year growth is premature. However, Softr has shared some initial performance data.

Currently, the platform boasts 30,000 registered users and over 1,000 paying customers. The company’s primary clientele consists of small and medium-sized businesses, which are particularly susceptible to being priced out of the current competitive developer market.

Looking Ahead

It will be important to observe how quickly Softr integrates additional data sources and launches its planned marketplace. Ultimately, the market will determine whether Softr achieves its ambition of becoming a thriving ecosystem.