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§ Private Profile · Chicago, IL, USA
a visual low-code platform that builds native mobile apps, responsive web apps, and internal tools for teams, with source code.
Draftbit has raised $500K across 1 funding round.
Key people at Draftbit.
Draftbit was founded in 2018 by Brian Luerssen (Founder/CEO).
Draftbit has raised $500K in total across 1 funding round.
Draftbit is a Chicago, Illinois-based technology company that provides a visual low-code platform for collaboratively building native mobile applications, responsive web applications, and internal tools directly within a web browser. The platform allows developers and designers to construct user interfaces using visual drag-and-drop components, preview changes live on devices, and edit the underlying source code without vendor lock-in. Designed to streamline the creation of cross-platform software for both iOS and Android operating systems, the system integrates artificial intelligence agents to accelerate the development process. Backed by startup accelerator Y Combinator as part of its Winter 2018 batch, the enterprise operates with approximately 10 employees and has raised just under $5 million in total venture funding across two rounds. Draftbit was founded in 2018 by Brian Luerssen, who previously served as the General Manager of OkCupid Labs.
Key people at Draftbit.
Draftbit has raised $500K across 1 funding round. Most recently, it raised $500K Seed in December 2017.
| Date | Round | Lead Investors | Other Investors | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 1, 2017 | $500K Seed | — | Network Ventures, Newlin, Grant Newlin | Announced |
Draftbit is a no-code/low-code platform that enables users to visually build native mobile apps with full source code export, combining drag-and-drop design, AI assistance, and expert support. It serves teams ranging from solo entrepreneurs to larger developer groups, empowering them to rapidly prototype, build, and launch cross-platform apps for iOS and Android without deep coding expertise. Draftbit solves the problem of lengthy, costly mobile app development cycles by accelerating the process up to 10 times faster, allowing users to own clean, production-ready React Native code and publish apps directly to app stores[1][2][5].
Founded in 2018 and based in Chicago, Draftbit was created by Brian Luerssen, who previously led OkCupid Labs and co-founded a machine learning healthcare startup. The idea emerged from the desire to democratize mobile app development, making it as accessible and fast as launching a website. Early traction came through participation in Y Combinator’s Winter 2018 batch, positioning Draftbit as a visual, code-exportable app builder that bridges no-code ease with developer flexibility[2].
Draftbit rides the growing trend of no-code/low-code development aimed at democratizing software creation, especially for mobile apps—a traditionally complex and resource-intensive domain. The timing is critical as demand for mobile apps surges alongside a shortage of skilled developers. Draftbit’s approach aligns with market forces favoring rapid iteration, cross-platform compatibility, and developer empowerment through code ownership. By bridging visual design and real code, Draftbit influences the ecosystem by enabling startups and creators to innovate faster and reduce dependency on traditional development cycles[1][2][5].
Draftbit is poised to expand its influence as mobile app development continues to shift toward no-code/low-code solutions. Future trends shaping its journey include enhanced AI-driven development assistance, deeper integrations with backend and analytics platforms, and broader community ecosystem growth. As the platform matures, it may evolve into a critical tool for startups and enterprises seeking to accelerate digital transformation while maintaining full control over their app codebase. Draftbit’s mission to make mobile app creation as easy as launching a website could redefine how software products are built and scaled in the coming years[1][2][5].
Draftbit was founded in 2018 by Brian Luerssen (Founder/CEO).
Draftbit has raised $500K in total across 1 funding round.
Draftbit's investors include Network Ventures, Newlin, Grant Newlin.
