CustEx

CustEx positions itself as a crowdsourced demand and market intelligence platform, operating as a two-sided marketplace connecting the general public with influential entities. The company was founded by Daniel Curran, a figure with a background as a rocket scientist, engineer, and a prolific Silicon Valley angel investor. His experience includes numerous startup investments and executive roles, such as VP of Strategic Planning at Western Digital, which informed his perspective on the disconnect between mass-market desires and corporate or political actions.

The platform's core function is to enable users, referred to as the "99%" (Fans, Voters, Customers), to submit their needs, suggestions for improvements, and reviews regarding products, services, or policies. These submissions, termed "Custexes," are then made visible to the "1%"—which includes vendors, politicians, and celebrities—creating a competitive environment where these entities are incentivized to address public demand to avoid losing market share or influence. CustEx aims to close the feedback loop, directly influencing future product development and policy making, moving beyond the limitations of standard review sites that focus only on existing offerings.

The business model involves several revenue streams. Organizations and public figures pay for access to the platform's user base and data analytics tools. This allows them to conduct market research, target advertising with precision using keywords and user interests, and reduce product development costs. The platform also facilitates direct paid consultations, where users can earn money by providing detailed feedback to companies via phone or video calls. CustEx utilizes technologies such as AI, machine learning, blockchain, and QR codes to structure user feedback into actionable data for its business clients. The platform emphasizes a positive, constructive feedback environment, disallowing anonymous negative comments to foster productive dialogue.