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Tonya Turrell, Founder, CEO & Chief Inspiration Officer of The Launchpad

Tonya Turrell | Founder, CEO & Chief Inspiration Officer
The Launchpad

At The Launchpad, we consider ourselves tech matchmakers. We help IT buyers find the right technology partners based on their unique needs, priorities and initiatives. We navigate the increasingly crowded technology vendors space and connect IT buyers with innovative providers who are a precise fit for their needs.

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The Top 10 Tech Companies of 2024: Spotlight on Tonya Turrell and The Launchpad


In the fast-paced world of technology, few companies manage to disrupt the status quo and emerge as industry leaders. Among the top 10 tech companies of 2024, The Launchpad, under the visionary leadership of Tonya Turrell, stands out for its innovative approach and transformative impact on B2B marketing and lead generation.


The Launchpad’s Vision and Innovation


At the heart of The Launchpad's success is its mission to redefine the landscape of IT procurement through innovation and truth-based marketing. Tonya Turrell, with over 25 years of experience in the B2B tech lead generation space, recognized a critical need for evolution. Despite significant advancements in technology and changes in buyer behavior, traditional lead generation models remained stagnant. Millennials and Gen Z, who now comprise more than 65% of tech buyers, demand digital channels, self-service options, and unbiased information sources. They eschew cold calls and mistrust sales reps, preferring to validate their decisions through peer reviews and third-party insights.


Transition to a SaaS Model


In her current role, Tonya is dedicated to expanding The Launchpad’s visibility and brand recognition. She invests significant time in networking and engaging with investors to support the company's growth. Transitioning from an agency-based model to a Software as a Service (SaaS) platform, she oversees the development and optimization of processes and systems to ensure a seamless scaling process. This shift aims to align the right individuals with appropriate roles and maintain brand cohesion, all while propelling the company toward its ambitious objectives.


TechnologyMatch.com: Revolutionizing IT Procurement


A groundbreaking addition to The Launchpad’s offerings is TechnologyMatch.com, a B2B technology matchmaking SaaS marketplace introduced in January 2023. This platform operates like a dating site, connecting technology buyers with sellers based on precise needs and preferences. “Think of it as match.com for technology buyers and sellers,” Tonya explains. This innovative marketplace is transforming IT procurement by empowering buyers to conduct precise searches and connect directly with technology partners, shifting the focus from vendors to IT buyers.


The platform’s matchmaking algorithm provides a curated selection of technology partners that align with buyers' needs, budgets, and preferences. This approach generates high-value leads, fosters meaningful connections, and drives conversions. The Launchpad’s focus on truth-based marketing in an industry often characterized by smoke-and-mirrors is setting new standards for transparency and efficiency.


Achievements and Industry Impact


The Launchpad’s revolutionary approach has not gone unnoticed. In 2023, the company ranked number 123 on the Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies, thanks to an impressive three-year revenue growth of 3,900%. This achievement underscores the company’s influence and success in the B2B tech market. The roster of top-tier clients, including technology giants like Microsoft, IBM, Apple, HP, NVIDIA, and Dell, as well as prominent IT customers such as Disney, Verizon, CVS, and BP, speaks volumes about The Launchpad’s industry impact.


Addressing the Modern Tech Buyer


Understanding the evolving needs of modern tech buyers, The Launchpad has adapted its offerings to meet these demands. Today’s buyers, predominantly millennials and Gen Z, prefer self-service options and digital interactions over traditional sales methods. They seek comprehensive product information, peer reviews, and the ability to conduct independent research without sales interference. The Launchpad’s TechnologyMatch.com addresses these preferences, providing a platform where buyers can efficiently find and connect with vendors that meet their specific needs.


Future Roadmap and Ambitions


Looking ahead, The Launchpad has ambitious plans. Currently engaged in fundraising for their inaugural seed round, the company has bootstrapped the design and development of its SaaS platform with over $2 million in self-funding. The anticipated enterprise MVP launch in early 2025 marks a significant milestone, transitioning the platform from beta to a scalable phase. The goal is to achieve $10 million ARR and 1,000 subscribers, laying the foundation for a future exit.


Tonya envisions TechnologyMatch.com evolving into a global marketplace within the next three years, revolutionizing technology marketing, procurement, and sales dynamics. She remains optimistic and driven by the belief that long-term success hinges on adapting to market trends and changing buyer behaviors.


Conclusion


Tonya Turrell and The Launchpad exemplify the transformative power of innovation and disruption in the tech industry. By prioritizing truth-based marketing and adapting to the preferences of modern tech buyers, The Launchpad is redefining B2B lead generation and IT procurement. As one of the top 10 tech companies of 2024, The Launchpad’s innovative approach and visionary leadership are setting new benchmarks for success in the industry.