VoteBash

About VoteBash

VoteBash, founded in 2011 by Martijn Atell, operated as a global market research and voting platform. The company provided a turnkey solution for organizations to gather real-time data feedback and consumer insights by leveraging personalization, gamification, and entertainment. Its business model centered on offering services like market analytics, targeted advertising, and brand awareness campaigns to a client base that included Fortune 500 brands and major sports franchises. The platform functioned as an online survey marketplace where users, or "citizens," could voice their opinions on various topics and receive rewards, such as coupons, for their participation.

The company's founder and CEO, Martijn Atell, holds degrees in Electrical Engineering and Information Communication Technology and gained over a decade of experience at BMW before entering the startup world. This corporate background, particularly in observing the automotive industry's slow-moving customer survey processes, directly inspired the creation of VoteBash. Atell envisioned a faster, more engaging way for brands to get feedback. His entrepreneurial drive was shaped by a unique coming-of-age experience in the Amazon jungle, which he credits for teaching him focus, adaptability, and perseverance—qualities he applied to navigating the startup environment.

Headquartered initially in Wilmington, Delaware, and later operating from Raleigh, North Carolina, and Miami, VoteBash established a global presence with portals in over 30 countries. The company gained significant recognition through numerous awards, including being named a Red Herring Top 100 Global Winner and being listed on Entrepreneur Magazine's 360 List. However, despite its achievements and having raised approximately $400,000 in funding, public records indicate that VoteBash ceased operations around July 2022.