MBC Innovation Track Spotlight
The Michigan Business Challenge (MBC) takes participants through the entire cycle of new venture creation from creating a strong pitch to conducting a marketing and financial assessment and writing a comprehensive business plan. Twelve teams of student entrepreneurs are one step closer to over $100,000 in cash prizes. Meet these innovative Wolverines in our spotlight series.
Startup Description
BotNot helps brands increase lifetime value, brand affinity, and data accuracy by prioritizing loyal consumers over bots and resellers. Jordan Shamir ’23.
What was the origin of this venture? How was the problem or opportunity discovered?
We discovered the problem by being frustrated not being able to win sneakers and concert tickets. This led us down a rabbit-hole. Many of us became botters and resellers, which helped us understand the depth of the problem. For us, it became one of the best kept secrets that we are excited to help combat.
What do you think will be the long-term impact of launching your venture?
Ultimately, we see BotNot as a Data company. We believe that businesses are using skewed data that has been negatively impacted by bots and bad actors. Thus, our mission is to help businesses better identify and prioritize consumers. Our first iteration to this is helping brands discern “good” consumers (human) vs. “bad” consumers (bots, resellers, etc).
How did you form your team?
We met through our love of sneakers.
How has participation in MBC helped move your venture forward?
The Michigan Business Challenge has helped BotNot get fresh perspectives and connect with the local community, who has been incredibly supportive.
What has been your biggest takeaway from the MBC experience (so far)?
The biggest takeaway has been embracing the entire Michigan eco-system! There are many talent entrepreneurs, investors, and individuals associated with U-M.
What are your plans following MBC? How would prize money help your venture?
We plan on hiring several interns to help us achieve some roadmap initiatives.
What advice do you have for other student entrepreneurs?
Daily progress goes a long way for building creditability!
2022 Michigan Business Challenge Finals
Learn more about these innovative University of Michigan startups by following the 2022 Michigan Business Challenge Finals on February 11 on ZLI social media. Cheer for your favorite team during the MBC final presentations and applaud the winners!