Two local entrepreneurs are taking their big idea to the next level.
In November, Frank Pope and Karl J. Steltenpohl became the first winners of RedEye’s Big Idea Award for Technology with their GoReturnMe idea, a tag that can be affixed to valuable items (keys, wallets, pets, etc.) and offers a reward-based incentive for returning them.
Now, GoReturnMe is one step closer to fruition. Pope and Steltenpohl finished beta testing the stickers in February, and this month launched a Kickstarter campaign in the hope of earning $10,000, which they estimate will allow them to produce 240,000 to 480,000 tags—big steps toward their goal of distributing 1 million tags in 2015.
Backers who pledge of $10 or more will receive a GoReturnMe starter pack, which includes one keytag and two sticky tags.
“Our idea gives everyone an incentive to do the right thing, and make a buck too,” they told RedEye last year on why their idea should exist. “There is no reason this idea can’t spread using the tools available to connect people.”
Pope and Steltenpohl, along with winners in the Community, Food & Drink and Art & Design categories, took home a prize package including ads in RedEye, a small business membership to the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, a $250 Chicagoland Chamber gift certificate and a trip to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, from Apple Vacations and RIU Hotels. Pope and Steltenpohl also won a 3-month mentorship with The Starter League founder Mike McGee.
The GoReturnMe Kickstarter runs through April 4. Click here for more info.
