EatStreet

In 2010, three University of Wisconsin–Madison students, Matt Howard, Eric Martell, and Alex Wyler, launched a venture that would soon become a staple in the online food ordering industry. Originally named BadgerBites, the company started its journey in Madison, Wisconsin, focusing on connecting local restaurants with hungry college students.

By August 2011, the founders saw potential beyond their college town and began expanding into other markets, particularly targeting tier 2 and 3 cities with a strong college presence. This strategic move allowed EatStreet to carve out a niche in less saturated markets, providing a vital service to both restaurants and customers.

EatStreet's growth was fueled by significant funding rounds, amassing a total of $48.8 million from investors such as Gener8tor, Lumia Capital, and Prime Ventures. This financial backing enabled the company to enhance its technology and expand its reach to over 15,000 restaurants across 150 markets.

In a notable strategic move, EatStreet acquired Cedar Valley Food Runner on May 19, 2019, further solidifying its presence in the food delivery sector. This acquisition was part of EatStreet's broader strategy to integrate local delivery services and streamline operations.

Today, EatStreet stands as one of the largest independent food ordering and delivery services in the United States, demonstrating the power of strategic market targeting and continuous adaptation in a competitive industry. The journey from a college project to a major player in the food delivery market highlights the founders' vision and the company's commitment to connecting communities through food.