“BIG IDEA” PROFILE: PixelZombie’s First Aid Kit
(EDITOR’S NOTE: Seven teams competed in the finale of this year’s “What’s the Big Idea” competition sponsored by the Development Corporation of Knox County, Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, Knoxville Chamber and Tech 2020. Sing and Spell won the event, but six other entrepreneurial teams “gave it their all.” This is the second in a series profiling the other finalists that competed in the revamped, 48-hour event.)
PixelZombie’s “First Aid Kit for the Digitally Undead” is the creation of Lisa Page, the company Founder. As the name implies, it is now a family of products to help gamers who pursue their passion for hours on end.
When did you first come-up with the idea that you submitted for the 2015 “What’s the Big Idea” competition?
We have been kicking around the idea that gamers and business professionals need measures of comfort that are unique to their experiences, for about year now.
Tell us about the original idea. What is it? What market need or deficiency do you hope to address?
The original idea was to package and promote eye drops to gamers to prevent eye strain and fatigue. Gamers’ blink rate is diminished while playing long hours and while its’ “all fun and games,” there is a physical price to be paid for that level of entertainment. Statistically, over 51 percent of American households have not only one gaming system, but two. This figure doesn’t even account for the smart phones and tablets which are quickly gaining momentum in digital play. Gaming is here to stay.
How did the concept change during the 48-hour weekend of intense mentoring and advice from others?
Our concept changed dramatically, for the better, during the 48-hour weekend. We started out focusing on one product and customer target. We ended up with a completely fleshed-out packaged product idea and broadened our customer base. We are still formulating new ideas every day!
Who were some of your more valuable mentors/advisors and how did they help you get ready for that Sunday night finale?
We were very fortunate to have some very creative and excited people working with us. Mike Manning helped us see the forest through the trees. Janna Laxton shared some great graphic design ideas, and Andy Jones was wonderful at relaying his marketing experience and how it could translate to our own business adventures and endeavor.
Although you did not win the up to $10,000, you were on stage before an appreciative audience. Do you plan to continue working on the idea?
I was terrified of the pitch initially, but I was determined to prove to myself and my family that I was going to see it through to the end. By the time the red buzzer went off, I didn’t want to leave the stage! I enjoyed it so much – the entire process. Despite the fact we did not win the money prize, I felt we won in many different ways that will surely benefit our family and our business. Yes, we are forging ahead with our business.
If you could wave the proverbial wand and get one wish for something to help you move forward, what would it be?
If I could rub the magic lamp for one wish, it would be for a list of businesses and gamers who are ready to sign up for a PixelZombie “First Aid Kit for the Digitally Undead.” Since I don’t have a lamp, they could always drop me a line at Babygracie68@yahoo.com. Zombies are waiting by and ready to take your order.
