Off the Beaten Path: Building Where2Wheel

Brittany and Dave Peregoff introduce Where2Wheel, sharing its inception and growth journey. They discuss transitioning the business model and partnering with landowners to develop off-road parks. The conversation touches on Zack's off-roading experiences and trail difficulty, as well as strategic pivots and market expansion in the off-roading industry. They explore demographic shifts, networking's role in business growth, and overcoming fundraising challenges. Insights into Founder University, entrepreneurial traits, and co-founder dynamics are shared, along with maintaining momentum through events. The episode also covers off-roading's social media impact, content trends, experiential marketing, and safety measures.

(0:00) Introduction to Where2Wheel with Brittany and Dave Peregoff

(2:10) The inception and growth of Where2Wheel

(5:08) Transitioning Where2Wheel's business model

(6:34) Partnering with landowners for off-road parks

(9:02) Zack's off-roading experience and trail difficulty discussion

(12:30) Business pivots and strategy evolution in off-roading

(17:07) Expanding Where2Wheel's business and market reach

(18:14) Demographic shifts and market growth in off-roading

(22:43) The power of networking in expanding business opportunities

(24:16) Networking success stories and overcoming fundraising rejection

(29:13) The significance of Founder University and follow-up

(34:49) Entrepreneurial traits and co-founder dynamics

(36:21) Maintaining business momentum through events

(39:59) Off-roading as a hobby and its social media impact

(42:04) Trends in off-roading content: ASMR and raw sound videos

(44:10) Experiential marketing and vehicle management in off-roading

(48:12) Safety measures and post-event activities

- Effective follow-up and genuine networking can lead to unexpected opportunities and growth in a startup.

- Adapting and pivoting based on market needs and data is crucial for long-term success.

- The off-roading market is significantly larger and more diverse than initially perceived, with a growing number of women and beginners participating.

Innovate Hampton Roads is on a mission to foster the growth of Hampton Roads' innovation and technology ecosystem by educating entrepreneurs and business leaders, providing access to essential resources, and building connections that drive synergistic partnerships. We are committed to creating a supportive environment that empowers entrepreneurs, strengthens the regional economy, and fuels long-term prosperity. By growing, guiding, and connecting key players in the ecosystem—including investors, industry leaders, universities, corporate partners, and community organizations—we aim to build a more innovative and inclusive economy. It's time to unify our efforts, amplify our collective voice, and streamline resources to benefit aspiring entrepreneurs, students, employees, and businesses throughout the region.