Viridiana, please tell us a little about yourself.
I am a newly founder, with previous experience in project, brand and marketing management. I’m also a new mom. I had my son in 2020 and my daughter was born in 2022 at the same time I decided to launch the app. You know to add up to the challenge.
How does POPUP app provide a unique solution to clients?
POPUP app is a game-changer for clients. The app’s convenience factor is undeniable, as it allows customers to quickly and easily book last-minute appointments with hairdressers or beauty salons that have unexpected availability. This not only benefits customers who are looking for a spontaneous beauty fix, but also hairdressers and salons who may otherwise have empty time slots due to cancellations or other unforeseen circumstances.
Forget the hassle of finding a last-minute appointment and download the app:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ch.popupapp
https://apps.apple.com/ch/app/popup-app/id1596103647?l=en
How does POPUP app benefit both customers and hairdresser or beauty salon?
s mentioned, POPUP app offers a unique solution that benefits both customers and hairdressers or beauty salons by taking convenience to the next level. With last-minute cancellations or empty slots being a common occurrence, our app provides a platform for hairdressers and beauty salons to quickly fill those slots and find new clients. This not only helps salons increase their revenue, but also provides customers with a hassle-free way to book appointments at a time that works for them. So whether you’re a customer looking for a last-minute appointment or a salon looking to fill a gap in your schedule, POPUP app has got you covered.
What steps did you take to ensure the success of POPUP app, from market research to launch?
To be honest market research is so taught when your starting, one thing is the data you collect and assumptions you make, and the other is the reality of the market. The research showed an opportunity but until you tested you can’t ever be sure. This is why I decided to give it a shot and develop an MVP (minimum viable product) and see how the market would respond and its been great!
How difficult is the journey you have taken as a founder? What are the main challenges that a female founder faces when starting a business?
As a female founder, the journey can be daunting, leaving you asking yourself “why did I get into this?” and feeling like you’ll never reach your milestones. However, it’s important to accept the continuous learning curve and remain resilient on both your journey and yourself. One major challenge faced by female founders is stereotypes. Sadly, I’ve encountered individuals who assume I woke up with my business idea and didn’t do my homework. I even had someone question if being a mother and starting a business was too much to handle. It’s frustrating because we women are amazing, whether or not we’re mothers. In fact, being a mother can level you up, constantly anticipating, programming, and finding solutions. We become masters of negotiation, but more importantly, we create life. So, why wouldn’t we be able to start a business and make it thrive?
According to a research conducted by BCG and MassChallenge, when female entrepreneurs present their ideas to investors for seed capital, they receive significantly less – a disparity that averages over 1 million dollars – compared to men. However, businesses founded by women ultimately generate higher revenues – more than double per dollar invested – compared to those founded by men, making women-led companies better investments for funders. As a female founder, how much do you identify with this study and what are your personal opinions on the matter?
As a female founder, I strongly identify with the study conducted by BCG and MassChallenge. It’s disheartening to hear that women receive significantly less funding than men when presenting their business ideas to investors for seed capital. However, it’s not surprising, as there continues to be a gender disparity in many areas of business.
I believe that women bring a unique approach to business that is often overlooked or undervalued. Women often prioritize the human element of business, which is critical to a company’s success. When a business is built around people and their needs, it’s more likely to thrive and generate higher revenues. This is why businesses founded by women ultimately generate more revenue per dollar invested compared to those founded by men.
In my personal opinion, the disparity in funding for women-led businesses is a result of gender bias and a lack of diversity in decision-making positions. We need more women in leadership roles and on investment committees to ensure that diverse perspectives are represented and that women-led businesses are given the same opportunities to succeed.
Overall, the study highlights the need for change in the business world to create a more equitable and inclusive environment for women entrepreneurs. We need to continue to raise awareness of these disparities and work towards creating a more level playing field for women in business.
What are your plans to expand POPUP app?
Looking ahead to the future of POPUP app, my aspirations are ambitious. To fully realize its potential and continue to grow, securing additional funding is a top priority. With the right resources, I am confident that we can take this app to the next level and beyond, fulfilling our vision and providing even greater value to our users. Our ultimate goal is to make POPUP app a ubiquitous platform, reaching people everywhere and revolutionizing the way we approach scheduling and appointments.
What are the initiatives or programs that support women entrepreneurs and can help them secure the necessary funding for their business?
Well, there is plenty of incubators, competitions such as MassChallenge but specifically oriented in supporting women entrepreneurs. I don’t know! So, if you read this and you know, please reach out!
What is Viridiana Velazquez human and entrepreneurial vision?
As a human being, I am on a perpetual journey of growth and evolution. My goal is to become the best version of myself and to inspire others to do the same, because at the end of the day, personal growth is the only thing we take with us. As an entrepreneur, I am committed to fostering a strong community that nurtures growth and creates new opportunities for everyone involved. Through collaboration and support, I believe we can achieve great things and make a positive impact on the world.
