Why did Steven Bartlett back a pre-revenue dating app?

He backed hati for its clear product wedge and PR-friendly story: five-minute calls that reduce ghosting and speed intent. The bet values team and potential network effects more than current income. If post-TV cohorts retain well and safety holds, the endorsement could accelerate partnerships, hiring, and a stronger follow-on round.

What valuation does £150,000 for 30% imply?

The deal implies a £500,000 post-money valuation and about £350,000 pre-money. At this stage, pricing reflects product potential and early cohort strength, not revenue multiples. Future dilution depends on hitting retention and monetisation milestones before the next raise, which could improve terms if key metrics trend up.

How might the hati app monetise without hurting growth?

Start with transparent subscriptions and optional credits for extended call time or priority slots. Keep call experiences ad-free or strictly opt-in. A/B test entry prices, renewals, and paywalls around genuine value. Protect safety, match quality, and support speed, since better experiences lower churn and lift long-term paid conversion.

What should UK retail investors watch next?

Track UK app store rankings, user reviews, and day-30 retention signals hinted by community chatter. Watch hiring in growth and trust and safety, plus partnership news. If momentum holds after the TV spike without heavy promos, it suggests healthy demand. Keep position sizes small given early-stage risk.

Global Market Insights

February 27: Steven Bartlett Backs hati, a Pre-Revenue Dating App Bet

ByDanny Kontos February 27, 2026February 27, 2026

Steven Bartlett backs hati after agreeing £150,000 for 30% on Dragons’ Den, despite only £48 in revenue. The hati app swaps texting for five-minute calls, pitching faster chemistry and fewer ghosted chats. We break down what this bold, pre-revenue bet means for UK consumer tech, how the model might monetise, and which metrics matter most. Investors want to know if Steven Bartlett’s investment can speed user growth and influence early-stage pricing across the dating-app category in Britain.