ABOUT THE FUND
The Marcus Foundation supports Georgia State student entrepreneurs, recent alumni and Georgia State community entrepreneurs with seed funding and mentorship to start and grow new ventures.

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
Baiyina Jihad, Founder & CEO
B.A. History ’15
[email protected]
Launched January 2018| Startup Stage
PROBLEM
Reading deficiency among students
contributing to decreased college
enrollment and graduation rates
SOLUTION
Customized virtual session through
digital books
BUSINESS MODEL
Paid programming for organizations
and affordable monthly subscription
for families
TARGET MARKET
Parents and after-school programs
who want their elementary-aged
children and students to receive
additional reading support and
enrichment.
KEY COMPETITORS
Kumon and Achieve3000
USE OF FUNDS
30% marketing, 30% talent
recruitment, 20% software, 20% paid
resources and licenses
How has Georgia State supported you as an entrepreneur?
My experience at Georgia State played a crucial role in my path toward education and entrepreneurship. By enrolling in courses that were both challenging and engaging, I gained the necessary tools and resources that prepared me to be an effective educator.
What does entrepreneurship mean to you?
Innovating by listening to others.
Have you always been entrepreneurial?
Growing up, my brother and I sold yeast popcorn. We were only allowed to work in the summers, one day a week. Every Friday for two summers we sold our popcorn at the end of prayer service. Our parents helped with certain things but allowed us to be very hands-on. We selected the flavors, bags and prices for the popcorn. This experience taught my brother and I about sales and customer service.
How did you find your team?
My founding team was developed by attending network events and following up with people who are interested in my venture or have some commonalities. Sharing my vision and process with others allowed me to connect with a variety of different people who wanted to help grow the business.
What is the most challenging aspect of entrepreneurship?
The most challenging aspect of entrepreneurship is the transitioning from thinking like an educator to thinking like a founder and CEO. As an educator, I am pouring knowledge into students to support them. As a founder, I am solving challenges and representing the business.
Share a fun fact about yourself.
I am one of six siblings. Half of them are entrepreneurs.
FOUNDER INTERVIEW AND PODCAST

ABOUT THE FUND
The Marcus Foundation supports Georgia State student entrepreneurs, recent alumni and Georgia State community entrepreneurs with seed funding and mentorship to start and grow new ventures.