Chapter 1: A Project Takes Shape
Our story begins with my older sister, Jenny, who faced what could only be described as Job’s year. Adding to her struggles, she was left to manage Grandma’s home in West Virginia—while living in another state. The house needed repairs before it could go on the market, but trying to coordinate contractors from afar became overwhelming. With no centralized solution for reliable options or streamlined coordination, Jenny found herself navigating an endless sea of calls and quotes.
Chapter 2: The Neighborly Connection
Then came a stroke of luck—or as I like to call it, the first pigybak moment. A neighbor of Grandma’s was planning a deck project at the same time. True to her bold and resourceful nature, Jenny asked the neighbor’s contractor for a quote and timing for Grandma’s deck. A month later, Jenny received a photo of the completed deck—all coordinated from a state away. What a relief!
That small act of collaboration sparked something bigger: what if there was a better way to connect neighbors and contractors?
Chapter 3: The Birth of an Idea
As Jenny shared her experience with me, the wheels in my head started turning. This could be automated. This could be easier. What if we could streamline the entire process of finding, vetting, and coordinating contractors? Every summer, contractors and lawn care pros go door to door to cluster jobs, hoping for efficiency. This could take that inefficiency and turn it into something transformative—for homeowners and contractors alike.
Chapter 4: Nurturing the Concept
Fueled by this idea, I dove into the research phase. Using my background in supply chain and product management, I conducted extensive market research, talking to homeowners, contractors, and industry professionals. The common themes were clear:
- Homeowners wanted trustworthy recommendations, quote comparisons, and project visibility.
- Contractors needed streamlined job clustering and better client connections.
The need was undeniable, and the vision for Pigybak as a solution began to take shape.
Chapter 5: Building the Pigybak App
With a clear vision in mind, I gathered a talented team of developers, designers, and industry experts. Pulling from the incredible network of people I’ve met throughout my career, we set out to create a platform that addressed these pain points head-on.
We focused on:
- User Accessibility: Larger fonts, simple interfaces, and colorblind-friendly designs ensure Pigybak is usable by everyone.
- Intuitive Features: Homeowners can post project details, receive quotes, and track progress effortlessly.
- Equity and Inclusion: Pigybak highlights minority-owned, veteran-owned, and sustainable contractors with special badges and offers them discounts on the platform.
Chapter 6: Plan to Market
Pigybak is slated to launch in Cleveland in the summer of 2023, with plans to expand to additional markets soon after. Here’s how it works:
- For Homeowners: Post project details, receive competitive quotes from pre-vetted contractors, and track progress—all on one platform.
- For Contractors: Gain visibility with potential clients, increase bookings, and benefit from job clustering, which groups nearby jobs to save time and reduce travel.
And because Pigybak is rooted in doing good, 5% of all sales are donated to nonprofits supporting communities and the trades—starting with One Step Ahead of Northeast Ohio.
A Focus on Sustainability and Equity
Pigybak isn’t just about convenience; it’s about making a positive impact.
- Sustainability: By clustering jobs, Pigybak reduces contractors’ travel distances, cutting emissions. Sustainable contractors are featured with special badges to help eco-conscious homeowners make greener choices.
- Equity: Contractors who are minority-owned, woman-owned, or veteran-owned are highlighted on the platform, making it easier for homeowners to support causes they care about.
Pigybak: Turning a Small Idea into Big Change
The origin story of Pigybak is proof that even the smallest ideas can create ripples of change. What started as a solution to a single deck project has grown into a platform that simplifies and enhances contractor coordination.
Pigybak makes life easier for homeowners and contractors alike while fostering sustainability, equity, and community support. With its launch in July 2023, Pigybak is set to transform the home improvement industry—and inspire a kinder, more connected world in the process.
Ready to Pigybak Your Next Project?
Join Pigybak today and experience a better way to coordinate home improvement. Whether you’re planning a simple repair or a major renovation, Pigybak connects you with trusted contractors who care about your project—and the planet. Together, let’s build a brighter, more sustainable future.
Sign up at www.pigybak.com to get started!
