Business · 2

What did Brian Chesky and Joe Gebbia create in 2008 to raise funds, which later became Airbnb?

Answer

Renting out air mattresses

Chesky and Gebbia rented out air mattresses in their San Francisco apartment to visitors during a design conference in 2008, which evolved into Airbnb.

💡 Did you know?

The name 'Airbnb' comes from 'AirBedandBreakfast,' referencing their original air mattress rental concept.

Other options people guess

  • A food delivery app
  • A house-flipping service
  • A furniture rental company

Topics

  • startups
  • sharing-economy
  • founders

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