Qinghao Abby Huang Empowering Brands to Connect with Gen Z Through Dime
Tell us about your venture/work!
My startup, Dime, specializes in helping businesses launch and engage with both US universities and the Gen Z market. Many companies struggle with effectively targeting US Gen Z individuals and penetrating university environments. Our mission is to bridge this gap, enabling companies to connect with their future consumer base. As Gen Z’s annual income grows and we witness the largest wealth transfer in history to this generation, it’s crucial for brands to engage with them to ensure long-term success. Our current clients include Casetify, Meitu (Asia’s largest photo AI app), Partiful, Norma Kamali, Bytedance, Lulus, and more.
How long have you been working on your venture? Why did you decide to work on something impact related?
The decision to focus on brand loyalty among Gen Z originated from my own experiences as a member of this generation and growing up in a digital age saturated with information. While at Duke University, I observed a disconnect between how brands engaged with students on campus. For example, buying a Times Square Billboard is no longer the way to drive brand loyalty nor will it actually reach Gen Z’s in college. I initially started by helping friends with arts and crafts businesses who were launching their brands from dorm rooms or parents’ garages. Through Dime, I marketed my friend’s small businesses, which eventually expanded to include clothing lines, skincare brands, and now, large corporations.
How did you find out you wanted to take an entrepreneurial path? What was the first fundamental shift that happened to you as an early impact entrepreneur?
I realized I wanted to take an entrepreneurial path during my time at a corporate finance firm. Despite being told that I needed years of corporate experience and an MBA before starting a business, I believed that being young and entrepreneurial is what makes Dime successful. I understand the Gen Z market and I am the right person to address targeting this generation.
What do you enjoy most about being an impact entrepreneur? What are the main challenges?
I enjoy connecting with clients who face challenges in reaching the next generation, Gen Z. As Gen Z becomes a significant part of the workforce, companies and brands need to change how they engage with this generation and resonate with this evolving market.
What advice do you have for early-stage impact entrepreneurs about using their time and relationships to prepare for this kind of career? What would you tell to your younger self?
For early-stage impact entrepreneurs, time and relationships are two of your most valuable resources. Here’s my advice on how to leverage them effectively: Prioritize Learning and Skill Development: Invest time in continuously learning and acquiring new skills. This could be through formal education, online courses, or self-study. The more versatile your skill set, the better prepared you’ll be to tackle the diverse challenges that come with entrepreneurship. Build a Strong Network: Relationships are crucial. Surround yourself with mentors, peers, and advisors who can provide guidance, support, and constructive feedback. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and partnerships that you might not have anticipated. Don’t be afraid to reach out to experienced professionals and ask for advice—they were once in your shoes and many are willing to help. Seek Diverse Perspectives: Engage with a diverse range of people and perspectives. This diversity will help you think creatively and innovatively. It also prepares you to better understand and serve a broad customer base. Stay Resilient and Adaptable: Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with ups and downs. Be prepared to face setbacks and learn from them. Adaptability is key; the ability to pivot and adjust your strategies in response to new information or changing circumstances will serve you well. Once you’re in the right environment and aligned with your true purpose, success will come naturally without the need to chase it. Focus on Impact and Value: Always keep the bigger picture in mind. Focus on the impact you want to create and the value you want to provide to your customers. This will keep you motivated and aligned with your mission, especially during challenging times. A personal lesson that has propelled me is: Surround yourself with the right people. Being around those who don’t support or uplift you can hinder your progress and weigh you down mentally, emotionally, and physically. Sometimes, cutting off negative influences is essential for growth. Remember, the most valuable lessons are often the most expensive and the hardest to recover from. If I could go back and give advice to my younger self, I would say: Trust Your Instincts: Don’t let the skepticism or discouragement of others deter you from pursuing your passion. Believe in your vision and capabilities, and trust that you have the potential to make a significant impact. Be Persistent: Entrepreneurship is a long game. There will be moments of doubt and failure, but persistence is key. Keep pushing forward, even when it feels like the odds are against you. Take Calculated Risks: Don’t be afraid to take risks, but ensure they are well-considered. Evaluate the potential benefits and drawbacks, and make informed decisions. Taking risks is often necessary for growth and innovation. Value Relationships Over Transactions: Build genuine relationships rather than focusing solely on transactional interactions. Authentic connections will provide you with support, insights, and opportunities that go beyond immediate business needs. Enjoy the Journey: Lastly, remember to enjoy the journey. Celebrate your successes, learn from your failures, and appreciate the growth and experiences that come with being an entrepreneur. Each step, no matter how small, is a part of your story. By leveraging your time and relationships wisely, you can navigate the entrepreneurial landscape more effectively and build a strong foundation for a successful and impactful career. Believe in yourself and keep building. Just go to the market and sell yourself and your solutions. Do not care so much about what others think. Always strive to grow yourself and your education. I am doing a master’s at Columbia. Note to younger self – You have more power than you might believe.
Anything else you would like to add?
My journey reflects the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and continuous learning. Despite encountering skepticism, I’ve remained committed to my entrepreneurial roots, driven by a passion for innovation and impact. Enrolling in Columbia’s Technology Management program is a pivotal step, equipping me with the skills needed to scale Dime and lead effectively in the tech industry. I’m excited to contribute to and learn from a community of like-minded individuals passionate about leveraging technology to solve real-world problems. My ultimate goal is to create lasting value for our clients and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.