PopBase, a startup that uses applied game mechanics to connect brands with users via an "interactive, personalized fan club," may be Los Angeles-based.
But that hasn't stopped it from making a strong connection with Cincinnati. A graduate of The Brandery, the startup announced it would be added to the Queen City Angels' portfolio. The move includes an undisclosed investment that the company will use to launch with a "select group of influencers."
“PopBase is bringing to market an exciting and timely new technology that will capitalize on the growing trend of influencer marketing,” said Tony Shipley, CEO of the angel network, in a press release. “This is not the type of company we normally see in our city, but the founders spent several months in Cincinnati to take advantage of our local startup resources and community expertise. Because of that local support, PopBase can move much faster and expand its network to help quicken the growth and monetization of its platform.”
“It’s like having your own digital Disneyland."
But the news surrounding its addition to the QCA's portfolio isn't the company's first headline. Founded in 2017, the company has raised $720,000.
What, exactly, is PopBase?
“It’s like having your own digital Disneyland,” said co-founder and chief business development officer Amit Tishler.
Specifically, it's an interactive, personalized fan club, so influencers can engage with fans anytime, anywhere. Users can go on to the web portal and create a unique, high-end customer gaming experience for their fans, also allowing influencers to monetize from the portal.
It allows the creator to put out content by using online templates, so there’s no need for design, budget or coding, which also saves time. The platform allows users to add video, record new voices quickly, so the creator can connect with fans quickly.
The pain point that PopBase is trying to solve for its users is the increasing demand on their time and the fact that they're often expected to be constantly “on," with fans wondering where their favorite internet creator is when they're not posting regularly.
The beta version will be released in July 2019, so users can gradually join the program. By July 2020, they will open to the public — which will be funded by a seed round they are kicking off soon.
