AI image generation. $500M+ ARR with ~40 people and zero funding.
Why design matters here
Midjourney's default aesthetic — painterly, cinematic, high-contrast — became a recognizable style that defined AI art. Founded by David Holz (previously co-founded Leap Motion), the company proves that a tiny team obsessed with quality can outcompete giants. Their images have won art competitions. The company grew entirely through Discord before building a web interface, an unconventional but brilliant distribution choice.