Today we’d like to introduce you to Adjoa Edzie
Hi Adjoa, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey to founding Gruuvv began during my time as a receptionist at JAM’N 94.5, a popular radio station. Here, listeners frequently approached me seeking recommendations for DJs for various events. This recurring demand showed a gap in the market for easily accessible, reliable DJ services. Inspired, I established an in-house DJ service at the station, which quickly gained traction, generating significant revenue and attracting major brand sponsorships.
Despite moving on from the radio station, I continued to receive similar requests from friends and acquaintances over the years, highlighting the market’s persistent need. Leveraging my industry experience and an MBA, I saw an opportunity to innovate further. This led to the creation of Gruuvv—an innovative platform designed to streamline the process of booking DJs, making it more efficient for event hosts and providing DJs with greater exposure and booking management tools.
Today, Gruuvv is growing into a thriving platform with a robust user base of DJs and event hosts. Our success is fueled by our commitment to simplifying the booking process and enhancing the event experience through technology. My journey from a radio station receptionist to the CEO of a tech-driven startup underscores a deep-rooted passion for music and a desire to make a lasting impact in the event entertainment industry.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Navigating the startup landscape as a Black female founder has definitely presented its unique set of challenges, particularly in securing funding. Historically, Black female founders receive less than 1% of venture capital, which highlighted the considerable hurdles in acquiring the necessary financial backing for Gruuvv.
One of the more persistent struggles has been overcoming the systemic barriers and biases that exist within the investment community. Pitching to potential investors and convincing them of the value and potential of a tech startup led by a Black woman involved not just showcasing the business’s potential but also challenging some of the entrenched perceptions about who can be a successful startup founder.
Additionally, building trust among DJs and event hosts accustomed to traditional booking methods required significant effort. Demonstrating the benefits of our platform, while also pushing for a shift towards more modern, digital solutions, involved a dual strategy of education and proof through action.
Despite these challenges, the drive to transform the event entertainment industry and create more equitable opportunities for underrepresented entrepreneurs has kept me motivated. Each step forward for Gruuvv is not just a win for our company but also a broader push towards more diversity and inclusion in the tech and entertainment industries.
We’ve been impressed with Gruuvv, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Gruuvv is an innovative online platform designed to transform the way DJs are booked for events, making the process simpler, more efficient, and tailored to the specific needs of both DJs and event hosts. Our service specializes in using advanced technology to match DJs with events based on detailed criteria such as music genre, event type, and audience demographics. This ensures a seamless fit that enhances the event experience for all parties involved.
What sets Gruuvv apart is our focus on leveraging technology to solve traditional problems in the event entertainment industry. Our platform not only streamlines the booking process but also provides a level of transparency and efficiency that was previously lacking in this space. We are known for our commitment to diversity and inclusion, aiming to provide opportunities for DJs from all backgrounds, particularly those who are underrepresented in the industry.
Brand-wise, I am most proud of how Gruuvv champions and empowers DJs. We provide them with tools and features that not only help them manage their bookings and schedules more effectively but also increase their visibility in the industry. This empowerment extends to event hosts as well, who benefit from our platform’s ability to simplify finding and booking the right DJ for their events.
For our readers, it’s important to know that Gruuvv is more than just a booking platform. We are a community advocate and an industry innovator. We are constantly updating our offerings and refining our services to better meet the needs of our users. Whether you’re a DJ looking to expand your reach or an event host seeking the perfect soundtrack for your occasion, Gruuvv is here to ensure your needs are met with excellence and ease.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
The Covid-19 crisis brought about significant challenges and learning opportunities for us at Gruuvv. Firstly, the pandemic taught us the importance of agility in business. As we were in the midst of developing our MVP when the crisis hit, we quickly realized the need to adapt to the changing landscape. This led us to incorporate a feature for booking DJs virtually, allowing us to continue serving our customers despite restrictions on in-person gatherings.
More importantly, the pandemic underscored the profound value of in-person celebrations and the essential role DJs play in these events. It became clear just how much people rely on these gatherings to connect and celebrate life’s key moments and how integral DJs are to bringing these experiences to life. This realization deepened our commitment to supporting DJs not just as performers but as crucial contributors to the social fabric.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://gruuvv.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letsgruuvv/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GRUUVV
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/gruuvv
Image Credits
Personal photo credit: douglaslevy photography