Back in 2010, I had the honor of interviewing Clate Mask, co-founder and CEO of Infusionsoft (now Keap), for my Arizona-based video blog highlighting rising local business owners. Clate's journey from law and business school to leading one of Arizona’s most inspiring tech startups captured the essence of small business innovation and perseverance. Fast forward to today, Keap has grown to become a leading SaaS provider of CRM and marketing automation solutions.

In December 2024, Keap was acquired by Thryv Holdings, Inc. for $80 million, as announced in their official press release. This acquisition is a milestone for the Arizona business community and an inspiration for entrepreneurs everywhere, showcasing the potential of small business success in the tech industry.

Resources:
https://www.investing.com/news/company-news/thryv-to-acquire-keap-in-80-million-saas-deal-93CH-3689288
https://dallasinnovates.com/dallas-thryv-holdings-closes-80m-acquisition-of-arizona-based-saas-solutions-provider-keap/

As we approach 2025, I’m revisiting and re-releasing some of these timeless interviews to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs, small business owners, and tech enthusiasts. Whether you're in Arizona, passionate about technology, curious about business acquisitions, or looking for entrepreneurial inspiration, this series is for you!

Discover Clate’s story, the rise of Infusionsoft, its transformation into Keap, and its impactful acquisition that marks a new chapter in its legacy. Let’s celebrate Arizona's thriving small business community and the innovations shaping our future!

https://blazinaztv.com

Key Talking Points from the Interview:

Introduction and Background:

Clate Mask is the CEO and co-founder of Infusionsoft, now known as Keap.
Married with six children, emphasizing the importance of balance, efficiency, and effectiveness.

Journey to Entrepreneurship:

Transitioned from a career in law to software development after completing a law degree and MBA.
Inspired to start a software company after experiencing the excitement of technology during his graduate studies.

Founding Infusionsoft:

Joined friends in a small software company initially called "Enoy" before rebranding to Infusionsoft.
Emphasized creating products over trading hours for dollars, which took two years to develop their first product.

Early Struggles:

The first three years were particularly challenging, marked by financial struggles and heavy emotional investment.
Highlighted the critical role of perseverance and resilience during difficult times.

Vision and Goals:

Infusionsoft aims to be the "QuickBooks of sales and marketing software."
The company sets and aligns goals across multiple timeframes (10-year BHAG, 3-year, 1-year, quarterly, etc.).

Impact of Infusionsoft:

Focuses on helping small businesses automate sales and marketing, reducing stress for entrepreneurs.
Growth fueled by a subscription-based model and emphasis on customer success through campaign launches.

Book Mention:

Co-authored "Conquer the Chaos: How to Grow a Successful Small Business Without Going Crazy," which discusses the entrepreneurial journey and the hierarchy of freedoms (money, time, control, and fulfillment).

Leadership Philosophy:

Advocates disciplined optimism—balancing awareness of challenges with a relentless focus on the vision.
Believes in public measurement of performance to drive results.

Lessons on Creativity and Cynicism:

Stresses the mutual exclusivity of creativity and cynicism, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive, open mindset.

Advice for Entrepreneurs:

Encourages having the courage to pursue unconventional paths while being teachable and resilient in the face of criticism.

Direct Quotes:
"You cannot create and be cynical at the same time. Those things are mutually exclusive."

On the importance of shedding cynicism to unleash creativity.

"Where performance is measured and reported publicly, performance improves exponentially."

On the power of transparency and accountability in achieving goals.