Winnie is a San Francisco-based company founded in 2016 by Sara Mauskopf and Anne Halsall. It operates as a marketplace for child care, connecting parents with local daycares and preschools across the United States. The platform offers detailed information on child care providers, including descriptions, photos, tuition details, licensing status, and availability.
Company Overview
- Founders: Sara Mauskopf and Anne Halsall
- Headquarters: San Francisco, California
- Year Founded: 2016
- Industry: Consumer Services
- Website: winnie.com
Services and Offerings
Winnie provides a comprehensive database of child care providers, enabling parents to search for and evaluate options based on various criteria. The platform also includes a community feature where parents can ask questions and share experiences. In 2022, Winnie launched a job board tailored to daycare and preschool roles to help address staffing needs in the child care industry.
Growth and Expansion
Since its inception, Winnie has experienced significant growth:
- 2016: Launched the Winnie iPhone app and secured $2.5 million in seed funding.
- 2017: Introduced a daycare and preschool finder feature.
- 2018: Expanded nationwide, allowing parents to find child care options across the U.S.
- 2019: Secured $9 million in Series A funding to support platform expansion.
- 2022: Launched a job board tailored to daycare and preschool roles to help address staffing needs.
Financials
As of 2024, Winnie has raised a total of $16 million in funding. The company has demonstrated impressive growth, ranking No. 275 on the Inc. 5000 list in 2024, with a 1,535% three-year growth rate.
Market Position
Winnie operates in the child care marketplace sector, providing a unique platform that combines comprehensive data with community engagement. Its focus on leveraging technology to simplify the process of finding quality child care positions it as a leader in the industry.
Competitive Landscape
While specific competitors are not detailed, Winnie distinguishes itself through its extensive database, user-friendly interface, and community-driven approach. The company's commitment to addressing industry challenges, such as staffing shortages, further enhances its competitive edge.
Awards and Recognition
- Inc. 5000: Ranked No. 275 in 2024 and No. 177 in 2023.
- Inc. Best Workplaces: Recognized in 2022 and 2021 for its family-friendly and flexible work culture.
