In our latest article in our series of spotlights on the startup founders and innovators in the Sacramento region, today post features TownToday Founder Adrian Pinon. I first met Adrian at one of our StartupSac Happy Hour events several years and I’ve been impressed with his positive attitude ability to always be hustling. I invited Adrian to share the story of his startup, TownToday, and lessons he has learned on his entrepreneurial journey.
Adrian with Sleep Train founder Dale Carlsen and Sacramento State President Robert Nelson
Let’s start out by having you introduce yourself and telling people about your startup.
Hey what’s up! My name is Adrian Pinon, and I am the Founder & CEO of TownToday. TownToday is a free mobile app that helps users discover nearby events super easily!
How did the idea for your startup come about?
You know, honestly, I was really bored at my house and I wanted to do something fun. I went on a bunch of websites and apps, but didn’t find anything interesting. It took forever to find anything cool, so I wanted to solve that issue.
Talk about the problem/challenge that you’re solving.
Well, finding fun things to do can be difficult, especially if you’re not super connected or familiar with the area. You may not have a whole lot of time to find something cool. Lastly, event sites and apps are pretty difficult to figure out. We wanted to make it super easy for our users to find some local fun without the headaches and without the hassle. Just quick, fast and easy access to nearby events. It’s pretty sweet!
How did you validate that your solution was viable?
True story, me and a friend went to the California State Fair a few years ago and asked a bunch of people a bunch of questions. The responses we gathered was enough to convince me to continue with this wild TownToday idea. I knew that I was onto something.
What were some key entrepreneurship lessons-learned you’ve learned so far?
Where do I even begin?! Too many to list. A super valuable lesson was to simply put my trust in God no matter what. I know, I know, but seriously, this lesson has helped me out more times than I can count. Another lesson learned is to just give it a try! Don’t be afraid of the unknown, because maybe that’s where the treasure is at.
What stage are you at and what’s next?
We have officially launched our app on the Google Play store, and are focusing on getting more users. What’s next? We’re looking to build some awesome partnerships in the area to help make Sacramento a more exciting place to be.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome as a startup founder?
This is my first startup, so it’s all new to me. Every win and every loss has been a challenge to overcome. But the cool thing is, I’ve come so far and learned so much. I’m humbled to be in the position that I am in.
What needs do you have to grow and take it to the next level?
We need more partnerships within Sacramento. TownToday is the hottest thing out there, but we need your help to get the word out. Also, we need investors to help fund our iPhone version.
What’s your take on the startup scene here in the Sacramento area? What has been helpful?
I get asked that a lot. The startup scene in Sacramento is like an extended family. You can really get to know people here. There are a ton of entrepreneurs that I can call my friends. They are there whenever I need something. So, get out there and start meeting some cool people in the 916!
What do you think as an entrepreneur would be more helpful to have here in the region?
Good question! I say… more investors and accessible capital. I hate when Sacramento entrepreneurs have to travel to some strange city just to raise capital. Na! I’m all about Sacramento helping Sacramento! That’s what we need, more investors and stuff. Emphasis on “stuff” – haha.
Do you have any words of advice, inspiration, or encouragement for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Have faith. Trust God. Believe in your “thing” even if no one else does. Get out of your comfort zone. Do something new and different everyday, even if it’s as small as brushing your teeth with the opposite hand – haha. It’s cool to do crazy new things, get used to it you’re an entrepreneur!
How can people find out more about you and your startup?
We’re all over social media, we’ve got a website, and are available for download on the Google Play Store. All you have to do is type in TownToday on whatever browser or app you’re using – haha. I’m a marketing guy, so I make sure that TownToday is as easy to find as possible! Lastly, if you’d like to chat about investment or have something cool in mind, please email us at TownTodayApp@gmail.com.
