I run BeeLine Reader, [1] which launched on HN years ago. [2]
BeeLine makes reading on screen easier and faster. At first, most of the revenue came from B2C mobile apps and browser plugins, but in 2020 it hit a tipping point and most of the revenue now comes from B2B technology licensing.
Blackboard recently adopted the BeeLine technology, and there are several other large education platforms that are planning to adopt in 2021.
Licensing revenue is uncommon for startups, but it's nice because it's very high margin. I actually used to be a lawyer, so I can keep the main licensing cost (legal fees) under control.
Yeah, patents. But many licensees are also just happy to have use of our JS, and to be able to use the name. The name has decent recognition in assistive technology circles and is gaining traction in among university students as well.
BeeLine makes reading on screen easier and faster. At first, most of the revenue came from B2C mobile apps and browser plugins, but in 2020 it hit a tipping point and most of the revenue now comes from B2B technology licensing.
Blackboard recently adopted the BeeLine technology, and there are several other large education platforms that are planning to adopt in 2021.
Licensing revenue is uncommon for startups, but it's nice because it's very high margin. I actually used to be a lawyer, so I can keep the main licensing cost (legal fees) under control.
1: http://www.beelinereader.com
2: https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=6335784