PopBookings Rallies as KC Startup Looks for Its Own Key Hires: ‘We’re Back in a Big, Big Way
Kansas City – After scaling back their event staffing platform’s operations during the pandemic, Kansas City-based PopBookings is back in action, accelerating hiring plans as they work towards a Series A funding round by the end of the year. The start-up, which offers event hiring and management software tools, aims to attract superior talent for sales, business development, and technical roles.
Reviving the Platform
The company’s platform, which is app-based, enables clients to post a job within minutes. An “ambassador” can then express their interest and availability for the job. The job poster is then given the opportunity to select the best fit for their needs.
Companies dealing with consumer brands and retailers who need on-site representatives, street teams, or those interested in marketing tech, HR tech, or event tech, often use this platform. Prominent partners of PopBookings have included brands like Heineken, Honda, Nike, and Snapchat.
Rising with Resilience
Founded by Erika Klotz and Scott Hanson in 2014, PopBookings’ journey was abruptly impacted by the pandemic, which came after the firm had just about perfected the key features of their platform in 2020.
During the absence of events in Kansas due to the pandemic, Klotz found herself temporarily located in Miami where events were still being held under certain conditions. Later in 2022, as the event landscape started revitalizing, the company leveraged its self-service feature, which was launched just before the pandemic, to quickly serve a wider audience.
“We were ready,” Klotz shared. “At the same time, as everything reopened, I realized that Kansas City is where I have my network, mentors, and investors.”
Planning Expansion
As part of their resurgence, PopBookings is now eyeing expansion into Canada and Europe. During the pandemic, Klotz also started a side business called “The Selfie Room,” a profitable venture, with her sister-in-law in St. Louis. However, In November, she decided to sell it to completely focus on the growth of PopBookings.
Asserting her bond with the start-up, Klotz said, “PopBookings is my baby and I’m so excited to have it home again.”
About PopBookings
PopBookings is a woman-led, Kansas City-based start-up that offers an interactive platform for event hiring and management. The company’s tools include features like quick job postings, instant screening of candidates and selection of the best fits according to the job needs. Founded in 2014, they serve a wide range of clients across various industries.
