Founded in 2018 by three Northeast Ohio natives with a passion for fishing new locations, FishMySpot is a sharing economy platform that connects pond owners to people who want to fish privately and are seeking new experiences. Pond owners generate a passive income and anglers gain a unique fishing experience while FishMySpot builds a connected network of outdoor enthusiasts.

What inspired you to create your business?

The co-founders of FishMySpot all grew up with a love for fishing untapped water holes. As we grew into adults, we had that same passion but found it difficult to find convenient and accessible water holes that weren’t frequently fished, like public lakes. So the idea came to fruition from reminiscing of childhood days. The dream is to ask permission for people that want to fish privately so our pond owners can gain a monetary income, our anglers gain a differentiated, unique experience, and at the same time, we’re building a network of outdoor enthusiasts.

What do you think separates you from the competition?

Two key factors: execution and grit. There are so many amazing ideas in the world, but without execution and a plan, the idea truly is dead. Our team has more than 75 years of collective experience in business and 70 years of experience and leadership, so we are very confident with our skillset that we can scale FishMySpot nationally and with the grit behind all of our team members to push forward.

How did you first learn about the Stark County Impact Program?

I met the community manager, Linda Hale, through a mutual friend. She had suggested that I enter into the Stark County Pitch Competition. I did apply, was accepted and won first place. From there she suggested that I apply to be part of the Impact Program and I am so incredibly grateful that I did because of the value that I take away from the Impact Program is really astounding.

What’s the most important thing Canton has to offer entrepreneurs?

Canton is an up-and-coming place for entrepreneurs and startups with the organization that was just created, Strengthening Stark, and also the addition of Canton Innovation District. It is going to be so exciting to see in the future the startups that are brought to Canton, Ohio, and also the entrepreneurs that participate in the amazing resources that are provided here.

What are your future plans for your business?

We have big plans for FishMySpot. We officially launched our online platform in May of 2019 and we will be following our marketing efforts to focus on the Midwest and also Southeast. Then next year we will be focusing our marketing efforts on the West Coast, Central America and then also Northeast – so we have very big plans for FishMySpot.

We also have other outdoor activities that we will be launching that align with fishing and we will be launching a mobile app in about a year and a half. Our plan is to establish roots here in Canton, Ohio, and we are so excited for our journey that has just begun.

Learn more about FishMySpot at fishmyspot.com. Then, come watch Larissa pitch her business live on August 14 for a chance to win up to $10,000 at the Stark County Entrepreneur Showcase.