Brian Chesky and Joe Gebbia founded Airbnb, initially conceived as a way to rent out sleeping space in their San Francisco apartment.
In October 2007, the roommates placed an air mattress in their living room when a design conference filled local hotels. The experiment suggested a larger marketplace for short-term lodging. Nathan Blecharczyk later joined as the third co-founder and technology leader, which is why full historical accounts usually list three founders even when a question highlights Chesky and Gebbia.
The original venture was called AirBed & Breakfast, and its first website launched in 2008. The founders later joined Y Combinator and used unusual early fundraising tactics, including selling themed breakfast cereal. The company eventually shortened its name to Airbnb as it expanded beyond air mattresses and breakfast.
Airbnb is not a hotel chain. It operates a marketplace connecting guests with hosts, and it also offers experiences and other travel-related services. Booking.com and VRBO are separate accommodation platforms.