PocketChange

This startup provides a secure, end-to-end platform that simplifies gift card liquidation, trading, and storage, backed by a trading algorithm, API-based financial SaaS integrations, and advanced ML recommendations. Having raised over $50K in funding and achieved top-tier recognition with YC W25 and Techstars NYC final-round interviews, it has also secured LOIs with major brands like McDonald's, Dunkin, and PDQ. Built with technologies like Dart, Python Django, AWS, and Docker, the solution ensures scalable, secure transactions and seamless gift card management for both users and corporate partners.

Key Contributions

End-to-End Solution Development

• Created a comprehensive platform with:
• Trading algorithm for efficient gift card liquidation.
• API-based financial SaaS for corporate integration.
• Advanced JWT and SSO security.
• Custom ML retail recommendation engine.
• B2B data analytics capabilities.
• Integrated Stripe payment system.

Full-Stack Application Development

• Built a full-stack application for gift card trading, utilizing:
• Frontend: Dart, JavaScript.
• Backend: Python Django, Firebase, RESTful APIs, AWS.
• Additional Tools: Docker, Redis memory for secure and scalable transactions.
• Ensured data protection and seamless user experience, enabling users to trade and store gift cards securely.

Strategic Partnerships

• Collaborated with 3+ CEOs and business owners to:
• Establish strategic partnerships enhancing gift card liquidity.
• Reach agreements on data exchanges and business partnerships with companies like McDonald's, Dunkin Donuts, and Paytronix.

Product Launch

• Launched a fully operational product available on app stores.
• Provided users with a convenient platform for trading and storing gift cards.
• Continuously iterated the product based on user feedback and market needs.