Roy is the Co-founder and CEO of EMERGE Group, an integrated commercialization partner for content creators and advertising firms.

They currently have 2 business units, Emplifive (social media and advertising analytics platform) and Empower (merchandise distribution platform).

👋🏼 How would you explain your job to someone outside tech?

I lead an enthusiastic team of go-getters that strives to push esports into the mainstream and give it legitimacy. We bridge the gap between enterprising content creators and impactful brands to create a mutually beneficial partnership for everyone.

To diversify our services, we have recently expanded our offerings to incorporate new commercialization options that are in line with evolving industry standards. Our key offerings include an advertising and social media analytics platform and a merchandise distribution platform.

🧐 What's something about you or your job that would surprise us?

I would say that I'm not your typical entrepreneur - given my unconventional business background and path. No one, not even my family, would've imagined what my life would be like today. My entrepreneurship journey was featured in a TV program!

🏆 What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?

This year, we received over US$2.2 million in seed funding in a landmark deal led by our VC partners. In addition to that, we were selected by Mastercard and Startup Junkie to be in their Start Path program and entrepreneurship program, respectively.

We are encouraged by the strong showing of support as it indicates we're on the right track.

🔍 What's a startup trend or space you're watching this year?‍

Automation and AI technologies have been transforming various industries for the past decade or so. Businesses utilizing these emerging technologies could enhance productivity and efficiency rates to previously unattainable levels. 

💼 What advice would you give someone starting out in your industry? 

You will need to adapt to shifting trends in the industry as it is ever-changing. What is popular now could be obsolete in 3-5 years.

In business, always find ways to add value to your clients. Understanding the needs of the consumer is paramount to creating a service that is very much needed and in demand. Be self-aware and avoid pitfalls such as the "founder's syndrome", where founders have the misguided belief that their products are without flaws. 

In addition, I will advise startups to be lean and grow modularly. Gone are the days when tech startups would "burn" money to aggressively acquire users that aren't necessarily bringing in revenue. 

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🗣 What's one thing you can keep talking about for hours? 

The many business models out there. I love researching and understanding different business models under different market conditions. I relish new challenges and enjoy learning new things on the go. 

🎥 What's your favorite movie/TV show? 

Suits. I rewatched the entire show from seasons 1-9… an astounding 12 times. ‍

🍨 What's your go-to ice cream flavor?‍

Pistachio