In this episode of the ROCC Pod, we meet Tahura Holly and Nikunj Jain, founders of Corqueboard, a digital advertising platform designed to replace traditional cork boards in local businesses. Tahura shares how her time in India inspired her business journey; after moving there in 2017 and immersing herself in the jewelry trade, she returned to Michigan and launched Festive Essentials, a brick-and-mortar store in Hamtramck specializing in Indian jewelry. As she promoted her store, Tahura noticed idle screens in local shops, which sparked the idea for Corqueboard—a network of digital screens where local businesses can easily upload and display ads, specials, and announcements. Nikunj brought his technical expertise to the venture, helping create an efficient and user-friendly platform for business owners.

Corqueboard operates through a simple setup: a small device (similar to an Amazon Fire Stick) connects to a screen, enabling businesses to display dynamic content that can be managed with a QR code. This ease of use, including the ability to upload content directly from a smartphone, means even non-tech-savvy business owners can take full advantage. With Corqueboard, businesses like restaurants or retailers can monetize their screens by selling ad space to other businesses, turning idle screens into passive revenue generators. Pricing is customizable, so each business can set its own ad rates, ranging from free community promotions to premium ad placements.

The couple discusses how their complementary personalities enhance their business partnership, though they face typical challenges of working together. They rely on honesty and clear communication, blending Nikunj’s outgoing nature with Tahura’s introverted approach to manage both their personal and business dynamics. They credit their different perspectives for helping refine Corqueboard’s user experience, with Tahura advocating for simplicity and accessibility in the interface.

Tahura and Nikunj’s recent addition to the Royal Oak Chamber has been met with enthusiasm, particularly with the launch of Corqueboard Mobile. This battery-powered, weatherproof digital sign offers a modern alternative to traditional A-frame boards, allowing businesses to display eye-catching digital menus or promotions outside. They’ve already seen local interest, especially from businesses seeking innovative ways to attract customers.

Listeners interested in Corqueboard can find more information at corqueboard.com or contact Nikunj directly at (313) 378-3893. Both Tahura and Nikunj are excited to help local businesses in Michigan thrive by enhancing visibility through Corqueboard’s growing digital network.

Learn more about the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce: https://www.royaloakchamber.com/

Connect with our hosts:

Jon Gay from JAG in Detroit Podcasts - http://www.jagindetroit.com/

Lisa Bibbee from Century 21 Northland - http://soldbylisab.com/