HBCU Founders Accelerator Fall 2023 Cohort Spotlight: Meet Christian Morris from Rush Roto

Last Fall, we launched the second cohort of the HBCU Founders Accelerator Program. Over the next several weeks, we are excited to showcase each of the exceptional founders and their entrepreneurial journeys. Up next, meet Christian Morris from Rush Roto!

Can you tell us a little about your background and what inspired your entrepreneurial journey?

I started my first profitable business at 13 and taught myself programming at 15. I used my tech talent to serve my community. Those early experiences gave me a strong foundation as I entered the start-up world in 2021. While working on an AR app, my wife needed help with photos for her Etsy shop. I used some of my AR tech to make her a product video. That idea turned into Rush Roto. 

What problem is your startup solving and what inspired you to tackle this issue?

We solve the high cost, time loss, and complexity of creating product photos for small businesses. Professional product photo shoots cost hundreds to thousands of dollars. They also take weeks or months to get done. We do it because we're entrepreneurs, too. We understand how saving time and money means less stress and more time with family. 

What have been some of the biggest challenges you have faced while building your startup, and how did you overcome them?

I'm a Black founder. I have all of the struggles that come along with that fact. Access to capital is one, but the biggest was access to relationships. I was able to bootstrap to an MVP, but I didn't have the kind of friends and family that could finance a pre-seed. I got pre-seed funding through programs like the AWS Impact accelerator and Nex Cubed’s HBCU program and met the people necessary to take Rush Roto further. 

How have your background and previous experiences influenced your approach as a founder?

So much of what I do is informed by my experiences running a graphic design and media company. The tools I build help both entrepreneurs and small businesses. Giving the underserved and under-resourced the ability to punch above their weight is key for me. I love that Rush Roto can be a vital part of businesses as they grow.

Where do you see your company in 5 years and how do you see it impacting your community?

In 5 years Rush Roto will be a leading producer of ecommerce photos. We will be the platform used by big and small brands in the e-commerce and retail world. We'll be known for how our AI enables any business to tailor product listings and ads perfectly to any cohort of customers.

What led you to become interested in Nex Cubed? What resources do you believe will be most helpful?

I became interested in Nex Cubed after speaking to a founder in their HBCU program. I learned how Nex Cubed provided capital, a network, and hand-picked advisors that meet your business where it is at. Being in the program now, I can report it doesn't disappoint. I am a solo founder, but it feels like Nex Cubed gave me an entire team dedicated to the success of Rush Roto.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned as a startup founder so far?

Relationships are everything. Not just with VCs. Make sure you stay connected to a community of founders. Bonus points if that group is diverse. Keeping your community diverse in culture, thought, and stage will make sure you're always learning.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who are looking to make their mark in the industry?

Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Be afraid to not learn from them. You'll never have perfect information. Be willing to take what you have and place a bet. Most importantly, run your own race. The path to success is different for everyone.

What advice would you give to other HBCU entrepreneurs around fundraising?

Be strategic, have a system, and stay the course. It's going to be hard, but you'll make it.

Where can readers/listeners/viewers learn more about your business? 

Rushroto.com

@Rushroto on Twitter and Instagram