// startup autopsy
Wildfire
Social media's hottest tool, extinguished by its acquirer
acquisition gone wrongAcqui-hire
Fatal mistake: Wildfire's entire business model depended on Facebook and social platform APIs that were subject to constant change, making its core value proposition fragile after the Google acquisition.
Key Events Timeline
FOUNDING
Wildfire founded by Victoria Ransom and Alain Chuard in the USA to build social media marketing tools.
FUNDING
Wildfire raises Series A funding to accelerate platform development as Facebook marketing explodes in popularity.
FUNDING
Final $14.1M funding round closed as Wildfire reaches 20,000+ brand customers and significant revenue growth.
ACQUISITION ATTEMPT
Google acquires Wildfire for approximately $350M, aiming to boost its social advertising capabilities.
SHUTDOWN
Google shuts down Wildfire's standalone platform after failing to integrate it effectively into its ad products.
MEDIA_MENTION
The fast fall of PG&E after California's wildfires is a jolt for companies considering the uncertain risks of a warming planet.