Meet Tadas from Dogo
Q: Can you briefly introduce yourself and your startup?
A: I’m Tadas Ziemys, founder of Dogo. We’re a mobile app designed to assist dog parents in training their furry companions at home. The journey began about eight years ago when my wife and I, along with our dog, started Dogo as a hobby project. What began as a personal initiative has now evolved into a small yet successful company.
Q: What’s the origin story of the application, and how did your dog play a role in the idea?
A: Our dog, Udra, sparked the idea. Adopted 13 years ago, we initially tried traditional dog training schools, but Udra wasn’t comfortable. Recognizing the need to train her at home, we sought solutions but found nothing suitable. Life happened, and the idea was put on hold until we decided to revisit it during a pivotal moment in Berlin. With my background in software development and my wife’s veterinary expertise, we embarked on creating a dog training app, drawing from our personal experiences.
Q: You had the application background, and your wife has a veterinary background. How did these skills converge in creating an app for dog training?
A: The convergence of my iOS development skills and my wife Rasa’s veterinary knowledge laid the foundation for Dogo. With a shared passion for dogs, we leveraged our expertise to create a comprehensive solution. Our combined skills enabled us to understand the nuances of dog training, leading to the inception of Dogo—a venture initiated by the two of us.
Q: When you started working on the idea, you mentioned an interest in gamification. How did this play a role in developing the Dogo app for dog training?
A: Gamification became a key aspect of Dogo’s development. Intrigued by the idea of making tasks inherently enjoyable, I drew parallels with fitness—a universal desire with a reluctance for the necessary exercises. The same applied to dog training. Recognizing the benefits but understanding the challenge of consistency, we aimed to make dog training as engaging as possible. The goal was to provide that extra push, turning good intentions into a fun and rewarding experience.
Choosing Leap for Dogo’s Growth
Q: Why did you decide to join Leap, and how did the pandemic influence your choice?
A: We applied to Leap during the pandemic, recognizing the shift towards online possibilities. While the tech community embraced remote work, the societal perception, especially in fields like dog training, remained rooted in physical interactions. However, Leap’s focus on supporting pet care startups aligned perfectly with our unique approach. We saw an opportunity to introduce something novel, and since our major customer base was in the US, joining a program like Leap seemed like an ideal fit.
Q: Can you describe the application process for Leap, considering you applied twice?
A: The application process was straightforward, though we did apply twice. Initially unsuccessful, we persisted and applied again the following year. Despite a few years passing, the process remained efficient. We applied in the autumn, underwent a series of quick online interviews, and received a prompt decision. Applying multiple times worked to our advantage; it allowed ongoing conversations, showcasing our progress. I’d encourage others A Glimpse into the Leap Program Experience not, to be disheartened by initial rejections. Persistence pays off, and the process, in our case, was smooth, quick, and to the point.
Q: Did you receive funding as part of being admitted to Leap?
A: Yes, the program included three partners—RGA, Mars’ investment arm (likely Kinship), and the non-profit MFA. Each partner invested, and we received funding, though the specific amount eludes me at the moment—likely around $100,000. Interestingly, it wasn’t primarily about the money for us, as we already had funding. Our focus was more on leveraging the program to facilitate business growth.
Q: You mentioned the equity exchange for funding. Can you disclose the percentage, and how negotiable was this aspect?
A: Leap specified their equity requirements, and while they have shifted their focus to early-stage startups, negotiations are possible. It’s crucial to remember that everything is negotiable, even if it’s initially documented. While I might not delve into specifics, the key takeaway is the flexibility within the negotiation process.
Q: What was a typical day like once you got into the Leap program?
A: Fortunately, our entry into the program coincided with 2020, the year of COVID and lockdowns. Initially, we enjoyed the first part of the program in person in LA, experiencing the unique advantage of connecting with experts and attending insightful sessions. The program facilitated intensive work, including expert consultations tailored to each company. The strength of Leap lies in its extensive network connections. They excel at linking startups with relevant individuals, a resource we found immensely valuable. Although we planned a second in-person part in New York, unforeseen circumstances led to a shift to online events. Despite the change, the Leap team navigated the challenge admirably, turning the situation into a positive and still providing a valuable experience. Yet, the in-person connections stood out as irreplaceable, showcasing the power of genuine face-to-face interactions.
Reflecting on Leap’s Worthwhile Aspects, Challenges, Growth, and Future Milestones
Q: Looking back, what particular aspects of the Leap program do you consider worthwhile?
A: For me, it’s a valuable partnership with powerful organizations like lead ventures. Having influential partners invested in our success, like Kinship Mars, brings opportunities for collaboration. It’s akin to having a big brother—someone interested in our success and offering meaningful connections. Additionally, the open and approachable community within the program is instrumental. Whenever I need advice or connections, I can reach out, creating a supportive environment.
Q: Did you face any challenges during the program, apart from its remote nature?
A: Indeed, the remote aspect posed a challenge, especially when dealing with significant time zone differences. Daily catch-ups meant early mornings in Europe, but we adapted. Connecting with the team was a hurdle, but we acknowledged that some things wouldn’t work as usual. Despite the initial challenges, we persevered, understanding that it was a temporary adjustment.
Q: What’s the current status of Dogo post-accelerator, and what achievements have you unlocked?
A: Post-accelerator, we conducted a successful fundraising round in 2021, witnessing substantial growth. The lockdowns fueled increased interest in dog training, though it also introduced more competition. Despite this, the positive trend of rising pet adoptions presents ample opportunities. We’ve grown revenue from $10,000 MRR to over $200,000, with 8 million total downloads. The company experienced significant expansion during this period.
Q: What are the next milestones for Dogo, and how has the accelerator prepared you for these goals?
A: Our imminent goal is profitability, aiming for independence from external investor money. The accelerator facilitated connections and partnerships, like the one with Royal Canin, injecting funds and aiding our journey toward profitability. Our broader goal is to assist as many dog parents as possible, emphasizing continued growth and awareness building in the space.
Advice for Future Leap Applicants
Q: Do you have any advice for those considering applying to Leap or similar accelerator programs?
A: Connect with current program participants, understand their goals, and take the time to know the people involved. Persistence is key; it might take several attempts to secure a spot. Conversations with founders who’ve gone through the program proved invaluable for us, offering insights into what can be negotiated and providing a more comprehensive understanding of the process.