Growth Loop: Dropbox

The first famously successful growth loop

The first example of a successful growth loop, that always comes to mind, is the referral program used by Dropbox.

Dropbox's referral program offered free storage space to both the referrer and the referred user, incentivizing users to invite their friends and family to sign up for the service. This not only helped Dropbox grow its user base, but it also increased the engagement of existing users who were motivated to refer others to the platform to gain more storage space.

As more people signed up for Dropbox through the referral program, the company's user base and brand recognition grew, which in turn attracted even more users. This positive feedback loop of increased user acquisition and engagement continued to fuel Dropbox's growth, making it one of the most successful growth loops in internet history.