How Telegram Built a $30 Billion Empire with Just 30 Employees Working Remotely
In a world where tech giants rely on huge teams and massive offices, Telegram stands out for doing the opposite. As of March 2025, the company is valued at $30 billion and serves over 1 billion users, all with a team of just 30 employees working remotely.
How Telegram Runs a $30 Billion Platform with a 30-Member Team
Telegram’s success lies in its lean and efficient operating model. Unlike WhatsApp or Signal, which employ thousands, Telegram runs its global operations with only around 30 team members. Founder Pavel Durov acts as the sole product manager, and the company has no HR department or traditional management layers.
This structure rests on three main pillars:
- Automation: Most backend tasks like customer support and server maintenance are handled by bots and automated systems.
- Remote work: Employees operate from different parts of the world, keeping costs low.
- Flat hierarchy: Direct communication with Durov speeds up decisions and improves productivity.
Origins Rooted in Privacy
Telegram was launched in 2013 by brothers Pavel and Nikolai Durov, who earlier founded VKontakte (VK). After leaving VK due to government pressure to share user data, the Durovs built Telegram as a secure messaging platform focused on privacy and free expression. This mission quickly attracted users in countries with restricted internet access such as Iran, India, and Russia.
The Technology Behind Telegram’s Efficiency
Telegram’s advanced technology is key to how it operates smoothly with a small team:
- MTProto protocol: A custom, lightweight communication system designed for speed and security.
- Cloud-based setup: Ensures seamless syncing across devices.
- Bot and API ecosystem: Many tasks are automated, and developers worldwide contribute tools that enhance Telegram without burdening its internal team.
- Decentralized servers: Data is distributed globally to ensure speed, privacy, and censorship resistance.
Hiring Without HR
Telegram’s recruitment process is as unconventional as its structure. Instead of traditional hiring, the company identifies talent through coding contests on platforms like Contest.com. The best performers—those who demonstrate strong skills and independence—are directly offered roles. This ensures that every team member is capable of working autonomously without supervision.
Revenue and Monetisation
Telegram stayed ad-free for years, relying on Durov’s funds. In 2021, it introduced Telegram Premium, offering larger upload limits, faster downloads, and exclusive features. By 2024, it earned $342 million, mainly from subscriptions and blockchain-based services, while still keeping its user experience free of intrusive ads.
Global Reach and Growth
Telegram’s user growth has been remarkable:
- 2020: 400 million
- 2022: 700 million
- 2023: 800 million
- 2025: Over 1 billion users
Its popularity is strongest in regions with high censorship, making it a preferred choice for journalists, activists, and privacy-conscious users worldwide.
A Minimalist Work Culture
Telegram’s work environment promotes independence, flexibility, and focus. Employees work remotely, communicate directly with leadership, and share a unified goal—ensuring privacy and freedom for users.
Lessons from Telegram’s Success
Telegram proves that small teams can achieve massive scale when empowered by automation and a clear mission. Key takeaways:
- Small, skilled teams can outperform large ones.
- Automation amplifies efficiency.
- Founder-led product focus drives strong user loyalty.
- A culture built on innovation and discipline sustains long-term success.
