Running a tech startup is a challenging endeavour under any circumstances.
This is the story of OBRIO, a Ukrainianstartupbehind the successful astrology app Nebula.
Fedorov sees the process as twofold.
There was the initial one when the war first broke out, he says.
It’s free, every week, in your inbox.
Meanwhile, there were other pivots to be made.
And also money wise it brings a lot of risk.
So we just focused on setting up a stable business.
It is a strategy that seems to have paid off.
The secret to its success, Fedorov explains, is down to two main components.The first is the team.
And the second thing is the niche.
Our market is a big market.
And we still have the potential to grow like four or five times.
Nebula essentially has two parts.
The other is a marketplace for advisors, where users can request tarot readings or ask specific questions.
However, Fedorov ensures us that everyone providing services on the apps marketplace is rigorously vetted.
We have a very, very thorough process in how we select [advisors], he says.
Its like a proper hiring process first we have a test task and an interview.
Then we have a second interview, then we have a test period, coupled with a learning system.
The app now has over 250 consultants, having hired an additional 70 just in the last few months.
This feature Fedorov believes to be the number one thing that makes Nebula stand out among its competitors.
Improving relationships, it turns out.
In fact, about 98% of the queries on the app are relationship-related.
Speaking of human relationships, most astrology apps have turned to AI to churn out readings by algorithm.
Beyond Kyiv, OBRIO has also set up an office in Warsaw, Poland.
Every month, OBRIO transfers 3% of its first payments to theGenesis for Ukrainecharity fund.
Our success is tied closely to the success of Ukraine.
This motivates me, and this is what motivates our people.
Others guffaw at the mention and call it mere superstition.
Story byLinnea Ahlgren
Linnea is the senior editor at TNW, having joined in April 2023.
Dabbles in gaming and fitness wearables.
But first, coffee.
