FROM PANAMA JUNGLE TO $90M EXIT

ft. Tyler Handley

Tyler is a Canadian entrepreneur best known for co-founding Inkbox, a temporary-tattoo technology and brand that redefined self-expression.

IN THIS EPISODE

In this episode, Raman Sehgal sits down with Tyler Handley. Under Tyler's leadership, Inkbox was one of the fastest-growing companies in Canada, culminating in its acquisition by BIC for $90M in 2022. He is now redefining the car-freshener category with Olauto, as well as being an active investor and advisor.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerhandley/

WHAT WE COVER

Scratching his own itch, travelling to the jungles of Panama with his brother to find the technology behind Inkbox, and turning an unusual idea into a global consumer brand
Starting with just $15,000, gaming the Kickstarter algorithm, and using scrappiness, technology and branding to create early momentum
Why timing mattered so much, with tattoos becoming mainstream, Instagram advertising exploding, and venture capital helping unlock growth from $8 million to $20 million
Building Inkbox with his brother, growing to around $40 million in revenue and 170 people, while developing valuable IP alongside the consumer brand
The unexpected approach from BIC during a Series B raise, why brand, demographic reach, IP and distribution made the deal compelling, and navigating a legitimate retrade as consumer spending softened
Life inside a large corporate after the sale, losing decision making power, walking away early, and eventually building a different kind of business designed to serve his life rather than consume it

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Tyler Handley

Tyler Handley is a Canadian entrepreneur best known for co-founding Inkbox, a temporary tattoo technology and brand that redefined self-expression. Under his leadership, Inkbox became one of Canada’s fastest-growing companies and was acquired by BIC for $90 million in 2022.

He is now building Olauto, while also working as an active investor and adviser.

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