Founder: Aaron Connolly and Dylan Healy
Business: Animation Explainers
Revenue/Month: $85K 
Founders: 2 
Employees: 20 
Website: animationexplainers.com
Location: Douglas, Isle of Man, Crown Dependencies
Founded: 2018

Animation Explainers, co-founded by Aaron Connolly and Dylan Healy, operates as more than an animation studio — it’s a creative ally for businesses navigating the complexities of modern communication. At its heart, the company transforms intricate ideas into visual stories that connect, educate, and stick. From demystifying cutting-edge technologies to humanizing dry corporate messaging, Animation Explainers specializes in crafting videos that do more than inform; they engage, inspire, and simplify. 

“Our process is really about starting with the person watching the video,” says Connolly. “What do they care about? What’s going to make sense to them? That’s the lens we use for everything we create.” 

Connolly’s passion for clarity shapes every step of their workflow. Whether the team is distilling a client’s business model or mapping out how to visually articulate a technical process, the focus remains on delivering a message that resonates. But for Connolly, clarity doesn’t mean compromise. He insists that the challenge isn’t just breaking concepts down into simpler terms — it’s presenting them in ways that feel meaningful and memorable. 

“We don’t believe in talking down to an audience,” he adds. “It’s about respecting their intelligence but also respecting their time. That’s why every frame has to earn its place.” 

The foundation of Animation Explainers’ success lies in the collaborative spirit that Connolly and Healy have instilled in their team. For Connolly, the client is a co-creator in the process, not a bystander. He believes that the best results come from creating an open line of communication from the very first conversation. “We take the time to ask, ‘What does success look like for you?’ before we even touch the software,” he explains. This commitment to understanding their clients’ goals helps the company produce videos that align perfectly with the intended message while addressing the needs of their target audience. 

The studio’s projects span a wide range of industries, including healthcare, fintech, and SaaS, each posing its own challenges. But regardless of the field, Connolly’s approach remains the same: uncover what’s essential, strip away the unnecessary, and deliver a story that connects. “Sometimes our clients come to us with concepts that even their own teams struggle to explain,” Connolly says with a laugh. “That’s when we know we’re in our element. The more complex, the better.” 

Beyond their technical expertise, Animation Explainers places equal weight on emotional engagement. Connolly believes that the best videos aren’t just informative — they’re emotionally resonant. “It’s not enough to say, ‘Here’s how this works,’” he explains. “We want to leave viewers with a feeling. Whether it’s confidence in a new product, trust in a service, or excitement about an idea, that’s what sticks.” 

This philosophy extends into every detail of their production process. Before a single storyboard is sketched or a voiceover is recorded, the team takes a deep dive into the client’s brand, exploring everything from tone of voice to the subtleties of their target audience’s preferences. The result is work that not only delivers on strategy but also feels authentic to the brand. 

“What I think really sets us apart is that we’re not trying to fit clients into our process,” Connolly explains. “We’re building our process around them. Every project is different because every client is different. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution here.” 

For Connolly, this approach doesn’t just yield better videos — it builds better relationships. He describes the production process as being just as much about people as it is about pixels. “We want our clients to enjoy working with us,” he says. “If they’re excited about the video, if they feel like we’ve heard them and brought their vision to life, then we’ve done our job.” 

That emphasis on collaboration isn’t limited to client interactions. Within the Animation Explainers team itself, Connolly sees creativity as a shared effort. “Our team is incredible,” he says. “Everyone brings something different to the table, whether it’s a unique design perspective or an insight into storytelling. It’s that mix of talents that makes what we do possible.” 

Despite their deep focus on creativity, Connolly is quick to highlight the strategic underpinnings of their work. Animation Explainers takes a data-informed approach to production, ensuring that every video is not just visually appealing but also effective in achieving its goals. “You can have the best-looking video in the world, but if it doesn’t connect with the audience, it’s just noise,” he says. “We’re always asking, ‘Is this going to work? Is this going to land?’” 

As much as Connolly loves the challenge of translating complexity into clarity, he acknowledges that the work isn’t always straightforward. “There are moments where you’re deep into a project and you realize you’re not quite there yet,” he admits. “But that’s part of the process. You push, you refine, you tweak — and when you finally get it right, it’s worth it.” 

A Leap of Faith: The Origins of Animation Explainers 

Every successful business starts somewhere, but the journey to success is often shaped as much by the challenges as by the vision itself. For Connolly and Healy, that journey began not in a sleek startup incubator or a creative agency but in a corporate call center. As sales development research interns at Marketo EMEA in Dublin, they spent their days repeating the same conversations and tasks, leaving plenty of time to think about what they wanted from their careers. Those long hours of monotony ultimately became the catalyst for a company that would reimagine how businesses communicate. 

“Our job at the time was basically cold-calling people,” Connolly says. “But what we learned from those calls was invaluable. We started to notice a pattern — businesses were really struggling to explain themselves effectively. That was the first lightbulb moment.” 

In 2018, the pair saw a gap in the market they couldn’t ignore. As part of their intern responsibilities, they had been researching marketing trends when Connolly stumbled upon the rising demand for animated explainer videos. This format — concise, visually engaging, and designed to simplify the complex — seemed perfectly positioned to meet the communication struggles they had observed. The idea clicked instantly. 

Healy recalls the moment vividly: “We weren’t just looking at this as a cool creative project; we saw the potential for it to solve real problems. Companies had these amazing products and services but couldn’t articulate them clearly. We knew we could help fix that.” 

The Scrappy Beginnings 

With the idea in place, the pair faced a stark reality: they had no money, no clients, and no real experience running a business. But what they did have was drive — and a willingness to build something from nothing. 

In the early days, Connolly returned to college to finish his studies while Healy took a full-time job. This left them working on their fledgling business in their free time, building a website and pitching their services to potential clients on LinkedIn. “We weren’t picky at all,” Connolly admits. “We took any project that came our way, no matter how small or obscure. At that point, it wasn’t about building a portfolio — it was about survival and proving we could actually do this.” 

Traction, however, came slowly. The work was inconsistent, and the projects they landed barely made a dent in their financial goals. Healy describes the period as one of trial and error: “We were testing everything — pricing, messaging, the kinds of clients we targeted. Honestly, there were moments where it felt like we were just spinning our wheels.” 

Then came a breakthrough. During a college tutorial, Connolly received a phone call from a past client. The client wanted to commission three additional videos, giving them the first real sense that their concept had legs. “That call changed everything,” Connolly says. “It wasn’t just about getting more work; it was proof that what we were doing had value. Someone liked it enough to come back, and that was all the motivation we needed.” 

Betting on Themselves 

The founders decided it was time to go all in. They quit their jobs, took a risk, and focused entirely on Animation Explainers. “We didn’t have much cushion,” Healy says, “but we figured if we didn’t give it our full attention, we’d never know what it could actually become.” 

Bootstrapping became their mantra. Instead of splurging on office space or expensive software, every dollar they earned went back into the business. They invested in LinkedIn outreach, Google ads, and partnerships with local animators to expand their capacity. For Connolly and Healy, frugality wasn’t just a necessity — it was a discipline that kept them focused on growth rather than distractions. 

“We were ridiculously careful with money,” Connolly explains. “We didn’t pay ourselves anything substantial for months. If there was an opportunity to improve the business, that’s where the money went. It was tough, but it worked.” 

As the projects increased, so did their confidence. By staying laser-focused on quality and delivering value, they built a reputation that led to more clients, repeat business, and bigger opportunities. Healy describes the experience as “a combination of patience and persistence.” They didn’t rush to expand too quickly but instead focused on creating a solid foundation. 

What began as a side hustle to break the monotony of a corporate job evolved into a thriving business with a global client base. “If you told me back then that we’d be working with Fortune 500 companies and startups from all over the world, I wouldn’t have believed you,” Connolly says with a grin. “But here we are. And we’re just getting started.” 

Crafting Impactful Stories: The Animation Explainers Process 

Creating an animated video that truly connects with its audience requires a seamless blend of creativity, strategy, and execution. Connolly and Healy have refined a methodical approach that ensures every project not only looks stunning but also delivers a message with clarity and purpose. For them, it’s not just about producing videos; it’s about crafting tools that help businesses communicate complex ideas in a way that’s both engaging and accessible. 

“Every project starts with a conversation,” Connolly explains. “We don’t dive into animation right away. First, we need to understand the client, their goals, and the people they’re trying to reach. That’s where the real work begins.” 

The team kicks off with an initial requirements call — an in-depth discussion designed to uncover the client’s needs and brand identity. These early conversations serve as the foundation for the entire process, shaping the creative direction and ensuring alignment. After gathering insights, the team drafts a script, which Connolly calls “the backbone of the project.” The goal is to distill the client’s message into its most essential form, balancing clarity with a tone that feels true to the brand. 

From there, the focus shifts to style and visuals. Healy emphasizes the importance of tailoring the animation to the client’s unique identity. “It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach,” he says. “We give our clients options for animation styles — whether it’s clean and corporate or fun and playful — so the final product aligns with their message and audience.” 

Once the storyboard is approved, the animation process begins. Combining motion, sound, and color, the team brings the concept to life with precision and creativity. Every frame is meticulously crafted to ensure the final product feels polished and professional. The team also prioritizes timely delivery, a principle Connolly describes as non-negotiable: “We understand how critical timelines are for our clients. If we say it’s going to be done by a certain date, it’s going to be done.” 

This dedication to quality and efficiency reflects in their pricing structure, which ranges from $5,000 to $35,000, depending on the complexity and customization required. Videos are typically kept between 60 and 90 seconds to maximize impact without losing the viewer’s attention. “People don’t have time for fluff,” Healy notes. “You’ve got to grab their attention immediately and make every second count.” 

Building and Sustaining Growth 

While a flawless product is essential, Connolly and Healy knew from the outset that success in a crowded market required more than technical skill. Their personalized, consultative approach has become a key differentiator, setting Animation Explainers apart from competitors that churn out generic videos with minimal client involvement. “We pride ourselves on making every project feel unique,” says Healy. “Our goal is to reflect the individuality of the brand in every frame.” 

This approach has paid off, attracting big-name clients like DHL, AIG, T-Mobile, Mattel, and Munich RE. These partnerships aren’t just a testament to the quality of their work; they’re a result of Connolly and Healy’s focus on building lasting relationships. “It’s not just about delivering a product,” Connolly says. “It’s about creating trust. When a client comes back to us for another video, we know we’ve done our job.” 

Social media has played a major role in Animation Explainers’ growth, particularly LinkedIn. The platform has allowed the team to connect directly with potential clients and showcase their expertise. By sharing behind-the-scenes insights, examples of their work, and industry thought leadership, they’ve built an active online presence that consistently drives interest in their services. 

Their efforts extend beyond LinkedIn. Recognizing the power of SEO, the company invested in a new website launched this summer, designed to showcase their creativity and make it easier for clients to explore their offerings. The redesign has already driven a 30% increase in traffic, thanks to its intuitive user experience and engaging visuals. To further enhance visibility, they’ve hired a dedicated writer to produce regular blog posts on topics relevant to their audience. These posts have not only strengthened the company’s position as a thought leader but also helped attract new clients through organic search. 

Though the company started with a focus on the Irish market, Connolly and Healy quickly realized that thinking globally was the key to scaling their business. Guided by mentors who helped them expand their vision, they began targeting international clients, offering their services to businesses across Europe, North America, and beyond. “When we started out, we were thinking small,” Connolly admits. “But as soon as we opened ourselves up to the global market, the possibilities really began to grow.” 

This shift in perspective has been instrumental in the company’s success. By maintaining discipline in how they allocate resources and doubling down on their strengths, Connolly and Healy have built a business that continues to thrive in a highly competitive industry. “It’s about staying focused,” Healy says. “If we try to be everything to everyone, we lose what makes us special. And we’re not willing to let that happen.” 

Expanding Horizons and Embracing Growth 

As Animation Explainers sets its sights on the future, the company is preparing for a bold leap forward. Having established a solid reputation in the animation space, Connolly and Healy are now laying the groundwork to expand into new territories, including the U.S., Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region. This isn’t just about chasing new clients — it’s a deliberate strategy to create stronger, more localized connections in key markets. To make this happen, they plan to bring ten new agents on board, a move that will bolster their presence while adding specialized knowledge of each region to their team. 

“It’s not just about scaling for the sake of growth,” Connolly explains. “We want to make sure we’re setting ourselves up for sustainable success. That means hiring the right people and giving them the tools they need to thrive.” 

This thoughtful approach extends to the company’s internal culture. For Connolly and Healy, building a supportive, engaging work environment is just as important as expanding their client base. “We want our team to feel like they’re part of something bigger,” Healy says. “Yes, we’re growing fast, but we’re also making sure that growth benefits everyone on the team, not just the bottom line.” 

This philosophy has been instrumental in attracting top-tier talent across roles, from animators and scriptwriters to sales agents and marketers. The founders emphasize that the strength of their team has always been the backbone of their success, and creating an environment where employees feel valued is key to maintaining that momentum. 

Lessons That Shape Success 

Years of experience in the competitive animation industry have left Connolly and Healy with a wealth of insights, many of which shape how they approach both challenges and opportunities today. In their early days, the duo concentrated heavily on serving small and medium-sized enterprises within Ireland, honing their craft and learning the intricacies of their target market. But as their confidence and capabilities grew, so did their ambition. 

“At some point, we realized we were thinking too small,” Connolly admits. “We had to stop limiting ourselves to what we thought was possible and start thinking about what could be possible. That shift — seeing opportunities instead of limits — completely changed the way we approached our business.” 

This “abundance mentality,” as Healy describes it, allowed them to broaden their client base beyond Ireland and tackle projects on an international scale. They now work with organizations across industries — from tech and healthcare to logistics and finance — adapting their approach to meet the specific needs of each client. “Every industry has its own challenges, but that’s what keeps it interesting,” Healy says. “By staying flexible and really listening to what our clients need, we’ve been able to offer solutions that feel tailor-made for their business.” 

The youth and energy of their team have also given Animation Explainers a competitive edge. Connolly points out that having a fresh perspective on challenges has enabled the company to devise innovative solutions and stand out in an increasingly crowded market. “Our team is fearless,” he says with pride. “They’re not afraid to think outside the box and take creative risks, which has made all the difference in the kinds of projects we’re able to deliver.” 

Resilience has been another critical factor in the company’s upward trajectory. The road hasn’t always been smooth, but Connolly and Healy have embraced each obstacle as an opportunity to learn and improve. “Setbacks are inevitable,” Healy says. “What matters is how you respond. For us, it’s about tackling problems together and finding a way forward as a team. Nobody here feels like they’re on their own.” 

This strong sense of unity has become a defining feature of Animation Explainers. By fostering a team culture built on collaboration and mutual support, the company has created an environment where challenges are met with confidence and optimism. Connolly credits this collective mindset as a major reason for their success: “It’s not just about us as founders. Every single person on the team has played a part in getting us to where we are today. And that’s what gives me the most confidence about where we’re going.” 

Ultimately, their unrelenting focus on client success drives everything they do. “If we’re not delivering results for our clients, we’re not doing our job,” Healy says. “It’s that simple. Every project we take on is an opportunity to prove what we’re capable of.” 

This determination, coupled with a clear vision for the future, has positioned Animation Explainers to take on new markets and opportunities while staying true to the values that have defined their journey so far. 

Advice for Entrepreneurs: Building a Foundation for Success 

The journey of starting and growing a business is anything but straightforward, and Connolly and Healy’s experience with Animation Explainers underscores the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship. Over the years, they’ve gathered lessons that transcend the nuts and bolts of running a company, offering a roadmap for anyone ready to embark on their own business venture. Their insights aren’t just theoretical — they’re born of trial, error, and the determination to build something meaningful. 

“We realized early on that if people didn’t know we existed, it didn’t matter how good our work was,” Connolly says. “Visibility was everything. You have to shout about what you’re doing, especially in the beginning.” 

Whether it’s through social media campaigns, blog posts, or search engine optimization, Connolly emphasizes the need to put yourself in front of the right audience. Healy agrees, noting that this approach was instrumental in establishing Animation Explainers’ global footprint. By showcasing their work consistently and creatively, they created a ripple effect that continues to attract clients from around the world. 

The Power of People 

For Connolly and Healy, the strength of their business has always been rooted in the strength of their team. Their complementary skills — with Connolly focusing on operations and Healy driving the creative vision — provide a solid foundation for managing the dual demands of a growing company. “We’re lucky because our skills balance each other out,” Healy explains. “I can focus on the storytelling and creative side while Aaron makes sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.” 

Beyond their partnership, the founders have built a close-knit team that mirrors their company’s mission. They hire with intention, seeking people who are confident, collaborative, and driven by a shared purpose. “Talent is important, but it’s not everything,” Connolly says. “What really matters is finding people who want to grow with you and believe in what you’re building.” 

This philosophy has resulted in a team that not only delivers exceptional work but also embodies the collaborative spirit that Connolly and Healy value so deeply. Investing in the right people, they say, has been one of the most important decisions they’ve made. 

Learning to Say No 

One of the more difficult lessons they’ve learned is the importance of knowing their worth — and sticking to it. In the early days, they often felt pressured to lower their prices or accept projects that didn’t align with their long-term goals. But over time, they realized that their pricing wasn’t just a number; it was a reflection of the value they offered. 

“You can’t be afraid to say no,” Connolly says. “If a client doesn’t respect the value you bring, they’re probably not the right fit. It’s not about being arrogant; it’s about protecting the quality of your work and the integrity of your business.” 

Healy adds that this shift in mindset was a turning point for Animation Explainers. By setting boundaries and focusing on clients who truly appreciated their expertise, they were able to build a more sustainable business while delivering better outcomes for their partners. 

Pushing Boundaries 

Perhaps the most significant lesson Connolly and Healy have learned is the importance of thinking beyond their initial comfort zone. Starting with a focus on Ireland gave them the stability to hone their craft, but they quickly realized that to grow, they needed to take risks and expand internationally. 

“The first time we landed a client outside Ireland, it was a real ‘aha’ moment,” Connolly recalls. “We realized that the only limits we had were the ones we were putting on ourselves.” 

This willingness to push past fear and embrace opportunity transformed Animation Explainers from a small startup into an internationally recognized brand. Today, the team connects with global clients on a daily basis, a testament to their belief in scaling smartly and taking calculated risks. 

“Every big step we’ve taken started with a small one,” Healy says. “You don’t have to leap into the unknown all at once. You build your confidence over time, and that’s what allows you to take bigger and bigger risks.” 

A Blueprint for Success 

For Connolly and Healy, the road to building Animation Explainers has been defined by persistence, creativity, and a clear vision for what they wanted to achieve. By focusing on visibility, assembling a team of like-minded individuals, knowing their value, and embracing growth opportunities, they’ve created a company that thrives in a competitive market. 

“Success isn’t about avoiding mistakes,” Connolly says. “It’s about learning from them and moving forward. As long as you keep going, you’re already ahead of the game.” 

Healy nods in agreement. “If there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that fear and doubt will always be there. The trick is to keep going anyway. That’s where the magic happens.” 

Key Success Factors: Why Did Animation Explainers Succeed? 

• Clear Vision and Strategic Focus: Connolly and Healy identified a growing demand for animated explainer videos and crafted a business around simplifying complex concepts through visual storytelling. They stayed focused on their core goal: delivering clarity and engagement for their clients. 

• Persistence and Resilience: The journey wasn’t always smooth, but the founders consistently embraced challenges as opportunities to improve. They persisted through slow beginnings, adapted to market needs, and used obstacles as a way to strengthen their business. 

• Investing in Visibility: Connolly and Healy emphasized the importance of getting their work in front of the right audience. Through LinkedIn outreach, blogging, SEO efforts, and a newly redesigned website, they consistently increased their brand visibility, creating momentum and attracting clients globally. 

• Personalized Client Approach: The team’s consultative, client-focused method set them apart from competitors. By deeply understanding each client’s brand and goals, they delivered bespoke animated videos tailored to unique needs, helping them build long-lasting client relationships. 

• Strong Team and Collaborative Culture: Connolly and Healy built a team of talented, driven individuals who aligned with their vision. By fostering a supportive and engaging workplace, they created an environment where employees felt valued and motivated, which strengthened the quality of their work and the company’s overall success. 

• Confidence in Their Value: Over time, the founders learned to say no to projects that didn’t align with their goals or undervalued their services. This focus on maintaining fair pricing and delivering exceptional quality allowed them to position themselves as a premium service provider. 

• Willingness to Push Boundaries: Starting with a local focus in Ireland gave them a foundation, but their willingness to think globally and engage with international clients propelled the company’s growth. By taking calculated risks and expanding outside their comfort zone, they transformed Animation Explainers into a globally recognized brand. 

• Adaptability Across Industries: The company’s ability to serve clients across diverse sectors — from tech and healthcare to logistics and finance — allowed them to remain versatile and responsive to market demand, creating broader opportunities for growth. 

• Complementary Founders’ Skill Sets: Connolly’s operational and logistical expertise paired with Healy’s creative storytelling vision created a balanced leadership team. This alignment enabled them to manage both the business and creative sides effectively, ensuring smooth operations while maintaining innovation. 

• A Focus on Quality and Efficiency: The company’s dedication to creating concise, high-quality videos that respect their clients’ timelines has built trust and delivered consistent results. This efficiency and attention to detail have become hallmarks of their brand. 

Key Lessons to Learn 

1. Start Small but Think Big: Connolly and Healy began by serving small and medium-sized enterprises in Ireland, but they didn’t let a local focus limit their long-term vision. They gradually expanded into global markets, taking calculated risks to grow. This shows the importance of starting where you can while keeping an eye on the bigger picture. Lesson: Build a strong foundation first, but don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone when the opportunity arises. 

2. Adaptability is Key: By working with diverse industries — from tech and healthcare to finance and logistics — the team developed a flexible approach to meet the unique needs of each client. This adaptability not only broadened their reach but also positioned them as a versatile, go-to partner for businesses worldwide. Lesson: Stay open to tailoring your offerings to fit the specific needs of your audience while maintaining your core strengths. 

3. Prioritize Visibility Early: Animation Explainers made significant efforts to build awareness of their brand. From leveraging LinkedIn to investing in SEO and creating a strong online presence, they understood the importance of making noise in a crowded market. Lesson: No matter how good your product or service is, if your target audience doesn’t know you exist, it won’t matter. Visibility is the first step toward building trust and recognition. 

4. Invest in People: Connolly and Healy’s complementary skill sets allowed them to manage both the operational and creative aspects of their business effectively. Beyond their partnership, they prioritized hiring team members with not just technical skills but also strong values and a collaborative mindset. Lesson: Surround yourself with the right people — from co-founders to employees — who align with your vision and elevate your business. 

5. Don’t Undervalue Your Work: The founders learned early on that pricing reflects value. By resisting the temptation to lower their rates or say yes to every project, they built a business that respected its own worth. Lesson: Believe in the value you bring to the table, and don’t let fear push you into compromising on pricing or taking on projects that don’t align with your goals. 

6. Focus on Building Relationships, Not Just Products: The company’s success stemmed from its personalized, consultative approach. Connolly and Healy built trust with their clients by involving them in the creative process and delivering tailored solutions. Lesson: Long-term success depends on relationships. Focus on understanding your clients, aligning with their goals, and building trust through collaboration. 

7. Be Resilient Through Challenges: Like any startup, Animation Explainers faced slow growth in its early stages. Connolly and Healy worked tirelessly, often juggling side hustles, to keep their vision alive. By treating setbacks as opportunities to learn, they stayed the course. Lesson: Entrepreneurship isn’t easy, and obstacles are inevitable. Resilience and a willingness to adapt are what separate those who succeed from those who don’t. 

8. Stay Focused on Quality and Timeliness: The company consistently delivered high-quality videos on time and within budget. This dedication to precision and reliability strengthened their reputation and won repeat business from clients. Lesson: Your product or service is your calling card. Always deliver exceptional quality and keep your promises — it builds trust and loyalty. 

9. Leverage Digital Platforms for Growth: The team effectively used LinkedIn and a redesigned website to reach clients, showcase their work, and establish authority in their field. Their content marketing and SEO efforts helped drive organic growth and boost credibility. Lesson: Digital tools are powerful drivers of visibility and growth. Invest in platforms where your audience lives, and use them to share your expertise and work. 

10. Be Willing to Take Risks: Connolly and Healy quit their jobs to pursue Animation Explainers full-time, bootstrapping their way to success. Later, they expanded internationally, even when it meant stepping into unknown markets. Lesson: Calculated risks are essential for growth. Growth requires courage, even if it means leaving behind security for opportunity. 

11. Foster a Culture of Collaboration: The company’s emphasis on team unity and mutual support created an environment where everyone could thrive. Challenges were tackled collectively, and no one felt left to deal with problems alone. Lesson: A strong team culture drives resilience, productivity, and innovation. Success is easier to achieve when everyone feels part of something greater than themselves. 

12. Consistency Over Perfection: Connolly and Healy’s story shows that success is a result of persistence and small, steady steps. From landing their first client to building a global brand, their growth was gradual but deliberate. Lesson: You don’t need to have everything figured out from the start. Consistency and small wins will eventually lead to big results. 

Opportunity Matrix 

Founder Background 

Connolly and Healy worked as sales development research interns at Marketo EMEA in Dublin, where they gained insights into business communication challenges. Connolly brought operational expertise, while Healy contributed creative storytelling skills. 

Problem Identification 

Businesses struggled to simplify and communicate complex ideas effectively to their audiences. Explainer videos offered a solution but lacked personalization and industry-specific storytelling. 

Market Opportunity 

Growing demand for concise, engaging content that simplifies technical or complex information, particularly in industries like healthcare, tech, finance, and logistics. 

Competitive Landscape 

Saturated with animation studios offering generic services, but few focused on tailored, consultative approaches to storytelling. This created an opportunity to stand out with bespoke solutions. 

Market Research 

Connolly identified the rising popularity of animated explainer videos while conducting trend analysis during their corporate internships. They validated the need through LinkedIn outreach and client feedback in the early days. 

Business Model 

B2B service-based model offering customized explainer videos priced between $5,000 and $35,000, depending on complexity and duration. Revenue generated through one-time project fees and repeat client commissions. 

Initial Capital 

Bootstrapped; the founders reinvested earnings into the business. No significant external funding was involved in the early stages. 

Product/Service Development 

Focused on creating high-quality, concise animated videos (60–90 seconds) tailored to client needs. Each project involved deep collaboration, from scriptwriting to storyboarding and animation. 

Marketing Strategy 

Leveraged LinkedIn for client outreach, SEO to drive website traffic, blogging to establish thought leadership, and Google ads for visibility. Showcased work consistently to attract new clients and build credibility. 

Milestones 

• Landing repeat business from their first client. 

• Growing from small Irish SMEs to Fortune 500 clients like DHL and AIG. 

• Launching a redesigned website, increasing traffic by 30%. 

• Expanding internationally to the U.S., Europe, and Asia-Pacific regions. 

Scalability 

High scalability due to the global nature of their client base and ability to adapt services to multiple industries. Expansion includes hiring region-specific agents and targeting international markets. 

Potential Risks and Challenges 

• Maintaining quality and personalization as the business scales. 

• Competition from larger studios with more resources. 

• Managing cash flow during periods of rapid growth or market downturns. 

• Keeping up with emerging technologies and trends in animation. 

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) 

• Number of new clients acquired. 

• Repeat business rate. 

• Website traffic and lead conversions. 

• Average project turnaround time. 

• Customer satisfaction ratings and feedback. 

• Revenue growth and profitability.