Why I'm Building a Language Learning App instead of a B2B SaaS

"You're doing B2C? You're cooked bud."

Are words that no one has said to me directly - but run through my head often. Open LinkedIn, TikTok, X, and everyone is opening a B2B SaaS.

Dropping out? Thats the norm nowadays.

B2B (Business-to-Business) models where you sell to other organisations are the popular choice for these new founders - easier marketing, network reach, and larger lump sums per sale. B2C (Business-to-Consumer) on the other hand is seen as the devils choice. Marketing hell, retention nightmares, the competition from the giants - negativity surrounds the sales model.

Why am I doing this then?

The Problem

Ever since I was young, I've always been fascinated with languages. From watching shows without subtitles to surprising locals in your community, speaking a language isn't just a jumble of words - its a gateway to beautiful cultures around us.

That being said, its been a tough battle.

School doesn't focus on fluency, instead prioritizing grammar rules that even locals don't know of to teach students. Apps currently available are focused more on milking their customers for cash instead of learning. Expensive subscriptions and a focus on addiction over true learning are the norm sadly.

Every path seems to fall short - is there anything that can be done?

Lumela - The new Path Forward

Lumela strives to solve this frustration many new learners experience. Instead of focusing on drills and memorizing grammar rules, Lumela will make language learning about you: a conversation about your experiences and what your interests are. Through story-driven modes of learning, you'll learn and remember details far better than from an exam or flashcard relevant towards your life. I know this is a short snippet but the opportunities to learn are truly endless!

Exciting things are coming up for us - check us out at Lumela.app :)

Takeaways

B2C is hard. Its exhausting and as a solo founder, I know that this process is not going to be easy. But Im excited: excited beyond belief. Because I see Lumela as something bigger than balance sheets and income statements, but an app that can help bring the world, our cultures, and experiences just that tad-bit closer together :)

best,

Ramika