Redwood City's Groupon for Small Businesses

It's no secret that the more you buy, the more you save. Internet sites like Groupon and Living Social have become multi-billion dollar companies by capitalizing on this idea. But group deals for horse-back riding and wine-tasting aren't exactly what small businesses need.

Which is why GroupPrice began targeting deals specifically for small businesses. True to their name, the Redwood City-based company uses a weekly deal method, in which entrepreneurs and business employees can see and buy deals from merchants. Because of the large demand for their products and services, merchants can offer the best group price. 

“The economy has hurt small businesses," said CEO Van Jepson. “GroupPrice allows for breakthrough solutions for small businesses to grow in a cost-effective way.” 

The company launched in January and promotes both local and national deals. For example, this weeks's deals include an Internet Public Relations offer: $39 for a guaranteed 5,000 page views—a $99 value.

“Part of the problem is that small businesses have little time in the day to search for these deals themselves," Jepson said. "We deliver what they need in five-minute increments."

Still in the early phases, GroupPrice focuses primarily on software and services to help online business growth. 

“We post the deals on our website, send via email, tweet via Twitter and post updates on Facebook and LinkedIn,” said Jepson. “We have a reach of 5,000-10,000 people on a daily basis—and that number is growing quickly.”  

The website has already brought in new features and functionality. 

“We now offer a 'Refer A Friend' program, where clients can earn $5 Biz Bucks for themselves and for the new member. It’s been working nicely,” said Jepson. 

Merchants also benefit, by finding new clients at a low cost. This win-win relationship between small businesses and merchants has led to growing success.

“We have been growing quickly, in terms of traffic, members and revenue,” said Van Jepson. We already have 100 merchants and 1,000 small businesses.” 

Already off to a great start, GroupPrice hopes to continue to grow at a rapid pace, helping more small businesses succeed.