// startup autopsy
Tilt
A social payment platform that enabled groups and communities to crowdfund events and settle payments with friends.
marketfitFire Sale
Distressed acquisition below last-round valuation
// the model, blind
Evaluating only Tilt’s profile at its peak — without knowing the outcome — the model ranked Unit economics as the #1 likely cause. Documented cause: No market fit.
Key Events Timeline
FOUNDING
Tilt founded as a social payment platform for crowdfunding events and group payments.
PEAK VALUATION
Tilt reaches $375 million valuation with strong investor support and CEO praised as next Zuckerberg.
DECLINE
Tilt begins losing value rapidly as lack of business focus becomes apparent, burning through capital on lifestyle spending.
ACQUISITION ATTEMPT
Airbnb acquires Tilt for $12 million in a fire sale, representing a 96.8% loss from peak valuation.