Seattle startup Boundless Immigration laid off an undisclosed number of employees last week, shortly before announcing on Oct. 1 its acquisition of Localyze, a Berlin-based company that primarily serves people immigrating to countries in Europe.
“On Thursday, September 25, Boundless carried out a reduction in force that reduced the size of the company to approximately 500 employees,” spokesperson Rachel Pepple told GeekWire via email.
“Right now, we’re focused on ensuring a compassionate and respectful transition for all our employees, while maintaining the highest levels of service for our customers,” she added. “We will be providing no further comment at this time.”
Boundless CEO Xiao Wang shared a Slack message with employees on the day of the layoffs, which impacted staff in the U.S. and Philippines.
“I want to be clear: this decision is not a reflection of the performance, talent, or dedication of our departing colleagues,” Wang wrote in the memo viewed GeekWire. “They have worked tirelessly to improve the lives of immigrants and their contributions will be part of Boundless DNA for years to come. We are providing them with resources and support to help them in their transition.”
In the Slack memo, he also provided employees with financial details about the business, stating that Boundless is expected to grow about 40% this year, but expenses have spiked 80% compared to 2024. The company projects $31 million in sales in 2025, and anticipates reaching profitability in 2027, the message said.
Boundless has been focused on helping individuals and businesses navigating the U.S. immigration process, whether they’re coming as employees, students or family members.
The new acquisition significantly increases its geographic footprint, adding immigration support for multiple European countries, Australia and United Arab Emirates. Boundless plans to integrate Localyze’s technology and services into its platform.
Boundless launched in 2017 and has raised more than $50 million from investors. It previously acquired two other companies.
Localyze launched in 2018 and has raised more than $47 million, according to PitchBook. The company has about 40 employees, which Wang previously told GeekWire would join Boundless’ operations.
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