Success Story – Be More Colorful

Be More Colorful – Fargo 2024

FARGO – Be More Colorful, co-founded by husband-and-wife team Matt and Katie Chaussee, is at the forefront of workforce development with immersive technology. Based in Fargo, North Dakota, the company has been making waves since its establishment in 2016, offering cutting-edge media solutions designed to help individuals make informed decisions about their careers and future.

Matt and Katie Chaussee’s entrepreneurial journey began with a clear intent to build a business that prioritized people over profit. “We have wanted to have our own business for as long as we can remember. We loved the idea of not having to punch a timeclock,” they explain. While they weren’t initially sure of the exact business model, they were determined to create a company that valued its team and built a solid foundation from the ground up. “We wanted to create it differently than most companies, making our team our number one priority and building a strong foundation.”

Their diverse backgrounds—Matt with an MBA, teaching experience, and many years in university administration and data management, and Katie with a degree in psychology, years of digital imagery experience, and extensive time in customer service—provided a solid foundation for their venture. However, the path to success was not straightforward. The Chaussees faced significant challenges in defining their market focus and establishing themselves in the emerging field of immersive technology.

This is where the North Dakota Small Business Development Centers (ND SBDC) played a crucial role. Since 2017, the ND SBDC has been a key partner in Be More Colorful’s journey. The center assisted with developing a comprehensive business plan, refining financial projections, and navigating the complex landscape of funding. Their support was particularly crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping the company secure PPP loans and maintain operations despite severe financial setbacks.

“Paul was so helpful, available, and free! After almost 8 years, we still keep the relationship going. We would not have Be More Colorful today without the assistance from the ND SBDC. They were there to help when we needed it the most,” Katie notes.

Paul’s guidance extended beyond immediate financial needs. He assisted in identifying resources and preparing us to apply for significant state funding, including $500,000 from the ND Legacy Investment for Technology (LIFT) program, and a $725,000 loan from the ND Development Fund in 2022. Be More Colorful’s innovative work also earned them a semifinalist position for a $1 million Yass grant, resulting in a $200,000 award and increased national visibility.

Central to Be More Colorful’s success is their flagship product, CareerViewXR. This immersive career exploration platform addresses critical workforce challenges by providing interactive and engaging experiences for students. With support from local and state agencies, CareerViewXR is now available in every high school and middle school in North Dakota. They also have a 10 year goal of getting CVXR in front of every student in the United States!

Reflecting on their journey, Katie offers this advice to other entrepreneurs: “No matter how cool your product is, it will only succeed if it solves a problem. Always highlight the benefits of your product or service, not the features. Always get feedback from customers and potential customers before creating. They will guide you.”

Through their commitment to solving real-world problems, Be More Colorful continues to drive meaningful change in workforce development and beyond.