Connecting buyers and sellers is crucial for the economy, fostering competition and innovation. This interaction forms the backbone of commerce, enabling exchange of goods, services, and ideas, sustaining a healthy business ecosystem. This also applies to the tech industry. The Launchpad is a company that is taking on this challenge in a truly unique and innovative way. The Launchpad is a personalized service that helps technology buyers discover tech solutions that are efficient and tailored to their needs.

Recently, Business Fortune spoke to Tonya Turrell, the Founder and CEO of The Launchpad. The following excerpts are from the conversation that ensued.

Please tell us about the circumstances or events that led to the founding of The Launchpad.

The Launchpad was created because the B2B tech lead generation industry had not kept up with technology and buyer behavior. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, I have personally witnessed common inefficiencies and outdated practices. The approach to lead generation had not changed significantly, while technology buyers among Millennials and Gen Z were evolving quickly. Younger buyers, who make up over 65% of the market, have different preferences that traditional lead generation strategies often overlook. Customers nowadays prefer using self-service options and digital channels for most of their purchasing processes. This choice aligns with their behaviors and expectations shaped by living in a digital technology-focused world. 64% of people would reject a vendor if they received an unsolicited cold phone call. This disconnection between outdated lead generation methods and modern technology buyers’ preferences highlighted a significant gap in the market. There was a clear demand for a more sophisticated, respectful, and effective approach to connecting buyers and sellers.

Therefore, I imagined creating a platform similar to online dating sites. Matches would be based on compatibility and shared interests rather than intrusive sales tactics. The Launchpad has transformed the way in which tech leaders are cultivated. It created a digital marketplace that connects tech buyers and sellers using a matchmaking model. The model helps technology buyers find partners who can meet their needs and preferences without using aggressive sales tactics. This improves the customer’s buying experience and makes the sales process more efficient and effective for vendors..

The Launchpad helps technology buyers connect with providers in a way that matches current tech buyer behavior. It also sets a new standard for starting and developing client relationships in the digital age. The focus is shifting to prioritize meaningful relationships based on real needs and values rather than solely driving demand for technology companies.

Q. What are the innovative processes involved in how The Launchpad matches tech buyers with vendors?

The Launchpad uses an advanced process to connect tech buyers with vendors, combining technology, psychology, and market analytics. This system helps buyers and sellers connect in a meaningful and efficient way, similar to modern matchmaking services. Both buyers and vendors go through a comprehensive profiling process during registration. For buyers, this includes their specific needs, preferences, budget, industry, and technical requirements. For vendors, profiling captures detailed information about their products, services, and capabilities. This detailed data collection is crucial for creating precise matches based on compatibility. Utilizing advanced algorithms, The Launchpad analyzes the data collected during the profiling phase to identify potential matches. The Launchpad allows technology buyers to contact vendors independently, reflecting their preference for control in the procurement process. Buyers can review vendor profiles to choose the ones they want to connect with. This ensures that any interaction they have is based on authentic potential for a valuable business relationship.

The Launchpad is enhancing its matchmaking process with an AI chatbot. The chatbot provides instant, tailored responses to buyers and can delve into platform functionalities and vendor offerings. It is available 24/7, allowing buyers to receive expert guidance. The chatbot can perform unbiased comparisons and learns from each interaction to provide personalized service over time through machine learning.

Q. What are the advantages customers receive from choosing to do business with The Launchpad?

Doing business with The Launchpad is beneficial for tech vendors looking to connect with active technology buyers efficiently. Our platform improves tech procurement by offering benefits that meet the needs of modern buyers and sellers. Here are some of the key advantages that vendors receive when they partner with The Launchpad:

• Targeted Lead Generation: Our platform helps vendors escape from ineffective lead generation methods and instead gives buyers the power to search and match vendors based on their own criteria, increasing the chance of successful sales.
  
  
• Modernized Matchmaking vs. Outdated Lead Generation: Our platform helps vendors to escape from ineffective lead generation methods and instead gives buyers the power to search and match vendors based on their own criteria, increasing the chance of successful sales.
  
  
• Authentic Connections: Our B2B marketplace prioritizes Technology buyers, fostering valuable connections with technology vendors. This leads to stronger partnerships, increased satisfaction, and improved sales. Vendors can build trust and relevance for long-term engagement and repeat business.
  
  
• Affordable Flat Rate Subscriptions: Use our platform for a cost-effective subscription that provides better results than traditional pay-per-lead models. It’s easier to budget for marketing and access high-quality leads.

By integrating these innovative processes and benefits, The Launchpad not only enhances the vendor experience but also redefines how tech marketing and sales are conducted in the digital age.

Q. What are some challenges The Launchpad had to overcome along the way? What were the takeaways?

The Launchpad has had a successful journey, but it hasn’t been without its challenges. One of the main challenges was funding the development of the software. We self-funded the project for the first four years, investing $2 million in its development. This caused some difficulties with cash flow. In December 2023, we were able to raise a small round of seed funding from friends and family.

Q. What is The Launchpad’s approach to innovation? Can you explain to our readers how the company is structured to promote innovation through its ranks?

The Launchpad’s approach to innovation is deeply embedded in our company culture and operational structure. We know that innovation isn’t just about new products or services; it’s about improving processes, encouraging creative thinking, and creating an environment for new ideas.

We have a flat organization that promotes communication and idea sharing among all employees. Everyone is encouraged to share their ideas and suggestions, which helps make decisions faster and empowers every employee to contribute to the company’s innovative efforts.

At The Launchpad, we focus on customers when innovating, keeping close relationships with them to gather feedback. We regularly survey technology companies and Technology buyers to understand their needs in the digital marketplace. This feedback helps us identify areas for improvement. Consequently, by aligning our innovation with customer needs, we ensure our solutions stay relevant and valuable.

Q. What are The Launchpad’s plans for the future?

The Launchpad is poised for a future filled with growth, innovation, and continued leadership in the tech procurement space. Our plans are ambitious and structured around both immediate advancements and long-term strategic goals.

To improve our platform, we’ll use AI more and bring new features. This includes predictive analytics and improved matchmaking. We also want to reach new markets internationally and adapt to their needs. This entails customizing our offerings and adhering to regional practices and regulations. Our goal is to become a trusted partner worldwide.

We believe in the power of community to drive innovation and collaboration. Moving forward, we plan to invest in building a more robust community platform that facilitates greater interaction among IT professionals. This includes forums, resources, and events that support buying and selling and also foster relationships within the tech community.

We are dedicated to enhancing the user experience on The Launchpad platform by fine-tuning our interface and processes in response to user feedback. To achieve this, we will also continue to innovate by developing new product lines and services. While focusing on growth, we are also planning for a possible acquisition or exit in the future to ensure the company can continue to thrive under new ownership.

Meet the Founder and CEO

Tonya Turrell is an accomplished entrepreneur and visionary leader, recognized for her groundbreaking ventures and transformative impact in the tech industry. As the Founder and CEO of The Launchpad, she has captured the attention of investors seeking to back disruptive innovations that redefine market landscapes.

“Revolutionize how you discover & connect with tech partners. Access emerging tech. No more unsolicited sales calls or irrelevant tech options. Join the ranks of forward-thinking leaders & experience tech matchmaking.”