Destin Bell, a 26-year-old entrepreneur, has gained attention for his running app, Card.io, which secured $150,000 in startup funding after his appearance on ABC's "Shark Tank."
Bell's journey highlights the importance of perseverance and seizing opportunities in the competitive startup world. Card.io is a free app that encourages users to engage in physical activities while competing for turf in their cities. Despite being in its early stages, the app generated $4,000 in revenue and attracted users from 70 countries.
Bell initially approached Niantic, the developer of Pokémon Go, but after facing rejection, he adopted a cold-emailing strategy, eventually securing the funding he needed. The effectiveness of cold pitches lies in research, personalization, and patience.
On "Shark Tank," Bell sought additional funding and eventually secured an investment from Daymond John and guest investor Rashaun Williams. With their backing, Bell plans to enhance Card.io's product offerings and expand its user base, including creating an Android version of the app.
Bell's story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, showcasing the power of resilience and innovative thinking. His journey also highlights the evolving landscape of startup funding, where unconventional strategies like cold emailing are becoming more prevalent. As Card.io continues to grow, Bell's determination will be crucial for its success.