Most small business owners wish they did a better job of marketing, but they don't know how.
Austin-based OutboundEngine says it has an answer with software that automates the process. The company helps professionals such as real estate agents, mortgage brokers and financial planners stay in touch with their clients through customized email, social media and content marketing.
So far the company has signed 7,500 customers. Now, with a new investment of $16 million, it's gearing up to add more.
The company will announce today that it received the funding from lead investor S3 Ventures, with participation from previous backers Silverton Partners, Noro-Moseley, Harmony Partners, Altos Ventures and Capital Factory.
OutboundEngine, founded in 2012, has raised a total of $33.8 million.
"We work with solo practitioners, such as independent insurance agents, who don't get a ton of marketing support," said CEO Branndon Stewart. "They may have DIY tools or pay an agency to do project-based campaigns, but they don't have an ongoing program."
OutboundEngine creates personalized industry-specific content, which is sent to the business owner's customers via email and social media. The service also tracks results and manages contact information.
The service costs $179 to $299 a month, with most customers paying about $210, Stewart said.
"Creating content takes time, and it's difficult to be good at," he said. "You need content that's very targeted and helpful, and that's distributed consistently. You also need a consistent presence on social media. We can come in and say 'For $200 a month we can do all of that, and free you up to do what you're good at. "
OutboundEngine has 238 employees, including 190 in Austin. The company will use the new funding to add employees in sales, marketing and engineering; develop new products, including more personalized communications; and pursue new markets.
The company plans to add about 100 new workers this year, and will be moving to a larger headquarters at San Jacinto Center downtown to accommodate the growth.
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