# HelloTalk

Startup profile on Capital Atlas: https://capitalatlas.ai/startups/hellotalk

- Industry: Internet
- Headquarters: Shenzhen, China
- Website: www.hellotalk.com
- Total disclosed funding: $4.6M
- Latest round: Series A (May 30, 2018)
- Investors on record: 2

## About

HelloTalk is a dynamic language exchange platform that connects users with native speakers, facilitating language learning through practical communication. It enhances language skills via text, voice, and video conversations.Founded in 2009 in Shenzhen, China, HelloTalk operates as a standalone entity with no known parent companies or subsidiaries. The company was established by Ying Zhang and Zackery Ngai, both of whom have backgrounds in technology and entrepreneurship. HelloTalk has successfully raised a total of USD 3.00 mn in funding, with its latest investment being a Series A round led by Seven Seas Partners on May 30, 2018.HelloTalk's core offering is a language exchange platform that facilitates communication between users seeking to learn new languages through connection with native speakers worldwide. The app allows users to engage in text, voice, and video conversations, enhancing language acquisition through practical use. Additional features include built-in aids for translation, pronunciation, and correction, which streamline interactions and support effective learning. The service is designed for a diverse user base, including language learners and native speakers eager to share their knowledge across various languages such as English, Spanish, Chinese, and more. HelloTalk operates in numerous geographical markets, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, appealing to a global audience of millions committed to language learning and cultural exchange.HelloTalk generates revenue through a freemium model, where basic services are provided to users at no cost while premium features are available via subscription. The structure typically involves direct transactions between the company and end-users, with options to upgrade to paid plans that offer enhanced functionalities such as additional language learning tools and ad-free experiences. Specific subscription plans allow users to access these premium features, creating a consistent revenue stream from those seeking a more robust learning experience. The platform supports direct-to-consumer transactions, with users able to purchase subscriptions or in-app services that enhance their language learning process. This model allows for a sustainable financial foundation as HelloTalk continues to grow its user base and expand the range of services offered.In May 2018, HelloTalk raised USD 3.00 mn in Series A funding led by Seven Seas Partners, which will be used to support the launch of new features and services aimed at enhancing user experience. The company plans to expand its market reach further into Europe and Latin America by the end of 2023, targeting users who are eager to learn new languages and connect with others across cultures.

## Funding rounds

- Series A, May 30, 2018, $3M — Seven Seas Partners
- Angel, Jan 5, 2015, $1.6M — Yonghua Capital

## Investors

- Yonghua Capital (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/yonghua-capital) — Angel
- Seven Seas Partners (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/seven-seas-partners) — Series A