Grasshopper is a virtual phone system designed to help small businesses manage their communications more effectively. It allows entrepreneurs to build a virtual office that connects callers to employees, regardless of their location. Grasshopper provides features like call forwarding, voicemail, and extensions, making it easier for businesses to maintain a professional image.
Grasshopper was founded in 2003 by David Hauser and Siamak Taghaddos. The company was initially created to address the high costs of business phone services for startups. Over the years, Grasshopper grew significantly, reaching over $30 million in revenue without venture funding. In 2015, Grasshopper was acquired by Citrix for $165 million in cash and $8.6 million in stocks.
Grasshopper's growth was primarily bootstrapped, with minimal external funding. The company was acquired by Citrix in 2015 for $165 million, reflecting its strong market position and value. This acquisition allowed Grasshopper to expand its offerings and integrate more advanced features into its platform.
Grasshopper offers a range of features designed to streamline business communications. These include:
Grasshopper has focused on expanding its product offerings through strategic acquisitions and continuous innovation. The acquisition by Citrix allowed Grasshopper to leverage Citrix's resources and expertise to enhance its platform. This has led to the introduction of new features and improvements in existing services.
Grasshopper regularly updates its platform to introduce new features and improve user experience. Recent updates include enhanced contact management, a unified view for customer interactions, and a setup assistant to help users get started quickly. These features are designed to make business communications more efficient and user-friendly.
Grasshopper places a strong emphasis on company culture and values. The founders, David Hauser and Siamak Taghaddos, focused on building a company that prioritizes long-term success and a positive work environment. Grasshopper's core values include generosity, transparency, innovation, and a commitment to helping entrepreneurs succeed. The company fosters a culture of passion, personal development, and work-life balance, which has been integral to its success.
Grasshopper has a diverse user base, including startups, small businesses, and freelancers. The platform is particularly popular among entrepreneurs who need a flexible and reliable communication system. Grasshopper's community is active and engaged, with users frequently participating in forums and discussions to share their experiences and provide feedback. This strong community support helps Grasshopper continuously improve its services and address user needs effectively.
