Brad Formsma, a name synonymous with innovation and inspiration, has made significant strides in the realm of business, technology, and philanthropy. Hailing from the bustling city of Detroit, Michigan, Formsma is not just an entrepreneur, he is a visionary who has consistently defied norms to redefine success.
His entrepreneurial journey began in his early twenties when he co-founded two successful businesses, ePrize and Brad's Deals. These ventures, while profitable, were merely a precursor to his most impactful role yet - that of a philanthropist and an inspiration to countless individuals worldwide through his non-profit organization, Iamma.
Brad Formsma's Entrepreneurial VENTURES
Formsma's first foray into the entrepreneurial world was with ePrize, a digital marketing agency that he co-founded in 1999. The company revolutionized the way brands interacted with consumers by leveraging the burgeoning potential of the internet. ePrize grew to become a global leader in promotions before being acquired in 2013.
His second venture, Brad's Deals, was established in 2001. It was an online coupon and deals aggregator, a unique concept at the time. The website grew rapidly, becoming one of the most visited deal sites in the U.S., and finally sold in 2011.
Innovative Marketing Strategies with ePrize
ePrize was instrumental in pioneering innovative marketing strategies like online sweepstakes and user-generated content campaigns. It worked with some of the world's leading brands, including McDonald's, Coca-Cola, and Microsoft, helping them reach untold millions of consumers globally.
One of ePrize's most remarkable campaigns was the 'Blank Canvas' initiative for Nike, where consumers were encouraged to create and share their own Nike shoe designs. The campaign not only generated unprecedented engagement but also resulted in one of the designs being produced and sold globally.
The Growth of Brad's Deals
Brad's Deals started as a simple email newsletter featuring local deals and discount coupons. It evolved swiftly, expanding its reach to cover national promotions and offers. At its peak, the website drew over 4 million unique visitors monthly, turning bargain hunting into a lucrative business model.
The site's success lay in its simplicity - it provided a platform for users to discover verified, time-sensitive deals from various sources, all in one place. This straightforward yet compelling offer resonated with users, making Brad's Deals an online sensation.
BRAD FORMASMA'S PHILANTHROPIC EFFORTS WITH IAMMA
Following the sale of Brad's Deals, Formsma turned his attentions towards philanthropy, founding Iamma in 2012. Iamma, derived from the acronym 'I AM MAKING A DIFFERENCE', is a non-profit organization aimed at inspiring individuals to become global citizens dedicated to making a positive impact.
The organization's flagship program, 'The Iamma Project', is a global network comprised of like-minded people who commit to dedicating a portion of their lives - from a week to a year - to volunteer in communities around the globe.
The Iamma Project: Making a Difference Around the World
The Iamma Project connects volunteers with local organizations in destinations like Ghana, Nicaragua, and Malaysia where they can engage in various development initiatives. These range from constructing schools and building homes to providing education and healthcare services.
What sets Iamma apart is its commitment to fostering a culture of sustained, impactful engagement. It trains volunteers in relevant skills and provides them resources to raise funds for their respective projects, ensuring each volunteering effort maximizes its value.
The Iamma Effect: Empowering Global Citizens
Iamma has impacted thousands of lives, both of those served by its volunteers and those who have volunteered. It has inspired a new generation of global citizens who are acutely aware of their role in shaping society's future.
Formsma illustrates this impact with anecdotes of those who, after volunteering, returned home with newfound purpose and passion. They've continued to drive change in their own communities, multiplying Iamma's effect tenfold.
Brad Formsma's journey is a testament to the power of one's passion and purpose. Growing from an Internet-savvy entrepreneur to a globally impactful philanthropist, he has consistently proven that success is not definitive, but rather evolving. And in his evolution, he has left an indelible mark, urging us all to ask, "What's next?"