From Super Bowl commercials to compelling animations in Times Square, we’ve seen global brands leverage the power of video campaigns in multiple ways. But what about small businesses with limited budgets? Creating a single short ad can take 20 hours of shooting and editing, and not to mention thousands of dollars if you hire an agency. Enter Wideo.co, a startup that helps small- to medium-sized companies create videos in minutes. It helps entrepreneurs produce professional video ads in minutes for marketing initiatives, internal memos, social media, special presentations, and more.

Wideo started in 2012 when founder Agu De Marco ran into roadblocks when it came to creating an explainer video for his previous startup. His options were limited. The only way to complete a video project was to hire a production agency and spend north of $2,000. Or, do it in house and waste hundreds of hours of labor for subpar results. This dilemma led to the launch of Wideo. He wanted to create a platform that helped businesses of all sizes unlock the power of video with easy and affordable tools, as well as customizable templates.

He teamed up with cofounders Agus Esperon and Fernando Sabre. Although much of his leadership team originates from Buenos Aires, Wideo launched globally from Silicon Valley in 2012.

“We want to make this as easy as edifying a PowerPoint or a Word Document,” Esperon, CEO, writes on Wideo.Co.

“By providing user-friendly online software, we aim to unlock the creative potential in everyone, making animation accessible, affordable, and enjoyable,” says Sabre, who also serves as COO. “Our mission is to democratize the world of animation. We strive to empower individuals and businesses, regardless of their animation skills or budget, to bring their ideas to life through high-quality 2D video content.”

Here, Sabre shares more about the Wideo.Co journey, and sage advice for an entrepreneur looking to scale.

Can you explain the mission of your startup? There was clear interest and demand for your tech product but sometimes a larger North Star is necessary to keep the company going. What is your team’s “why” or “raison d’etre”?

Our vision is a world where storytelling knows no limits, every idea can be expressed through the magic of animation, and where creativity knows no boundaries. Join us on this journey to make animation a universal language, connecting people, businesses, and dreams.

What was the biggest challenge you faced while growing your startup?

Getting Wideo off the ground by securing runway funding was primarily an ongoing struggle, as is common in the startup world. We had a great idea and the drive to realize it, but financial constraints consistently loomed over us. Our team eventually secured funding from investors like 500 Startups, NXTP Labs, and South Ventures.

Startup life is a rollercoaster, with highs and lows. However, the ability to persist in the face of adversity is what distinguishes successful entrepreneurs. We had to pivot, adapt, and refine our approach continually.

While ups and downs marked the journey, it forged a stronger, more resilient team. We have now grown into a lean team of eight and are hiring for about five new positions, mostly developers.

Today, we see these obstacles as the stepping stones that shaped Wideo into what it is now.

Share a milestone or a proud moment in your startup journey.

What makes us exceptionally proud in our startup journey is our early success. We secured victory in startup contests even before having a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). Through compelling mockups and presentations, we secured initial funds to kickstart product development. This achievement filled us with immense pride.

What can other aspiring entrepreneurs learn from your founding team’s experience?

I advise anyone in a similar position to prioritize three key principles: First, unwavering determination – understand that the startup journey is filled with challenges, setbacks, and uncertainty. Maintaining a steadfast commitment to your vision is crucial, even when the path ahead seems daunting. Second, the power of learning – embrace every mistake and setback as a valuable lesson. Continuously seek knowledge, stay open to feedback, and be willing to pivot when necessary. It's through these experiences that we grow and refine our strategies. Lastly, know the importance of networking and seeking support – connect with mentors, advisors, and other entrepreneurs who have walked a similar path. Their insights and guidance can be invaluable in navigating the complexities of the startup world.

When you launched in 2012, why did your founding team choose .CO for the Wideo website?

We chose the .CO domain for our website because the .com domain either wasn't available or was prohibitively expensive. Given that, we saw .CO is a solid and accessible alternative. While .com might be the first choice for many, .CO has become increasingly popular among startups and businesses as a recognizable and memorable domain extension. It allowed us to maintain a strong online presence without compromising our brand identity or breaking the bank.

So many founders say they get stuck on certain details, and this holds them back from going to market or growth. How has choosing .CO provided lessons in just taking action?

Choosing a .CO domain can be innovative and practical, especially if your preferred .com domain is unavailable or too expensive. The .CO domains have gained recognition and trust online, making them a viable choice for startups and businesses. They're memorable, professional, and can help you establish a strong online presence. However, consider the availability of the specific .CO domain you want and ensure it aligns with your brand and business goals. Additionally, invest in a well-thought-out website and marketing strategy to maximize your chosen domain extension. Ultimately, a .CO domain can be an excellent choice if it complements your brand and is readily available.

Remember, success in the startup realm often requires resilience, adaptability, and a strong support network. Stay true to your vision, learn from your experiences, and lean on the wisdom of others who have trodden this path before.