HACKER Q&A
📣 xoptions

Get acquihired or continue bootstrapping 3y+ startup?


This is the third acquihire offer we've received in last 3 months and fourth overall. All the previous ones were easy to decline. But this one is making me think for a number of reasons: (a) It's targeting the same user base. And they already have the data that we need to build & scale our existing products. (b) It has got thousands of customers and the product is a monopoly. (c) Backed by the most trusted VCs & entrepreneurs in the world according to me. (d) Bootstrapping is a constant struggle and it is even more challenging as a solo founder. (e) This startup is not the only way to meet our vision. May be the credibility we gain from here on could make it easier in my next startup. (f) May be it is the push that we needed. So we should accept it.

What makes me rethink: (a) We've a handful of customers and team who will never trust me again if I accept the acquihire. (b) Certainly we're doing something right and it is not the last & best offer. (c) Should I let the team continue to struggle - our best engineers aren't paid at par, they have a mix of options and stocks? (d) Starting up is the most challenging job and then maintaining a momentum. We’ll lose any momentum we’ve gained in last three years. (e) This is also the best phase in last three years because we’ve more clarity and significant runway than ever in the past. (f) Acquihire reduces my near-term pains but I am not sure about long-term.

Please ask me questions so that I can get a direction.


  👤 idw Accepted Answer ✓
Congratulations! Nice problem to have.

Others are better placed but you've been waiting an hour...

- You say "Starting up is the most challenging job ": what if you assume it doesn't get any easier?

- What are the downside risks of an aquihire? What would you work look like? Is this somewhere you would otherwise choose to work?

- Leaving aside success for the business, what do you personally want out of life now, in the next few years, long term?

- You've had four offers without actively looking, what if you active look for buyers?

- What two people/roles could you hire that would make you enthusiastic about continuing to build your company?