Innovation

Buddi's innovation is its app and network that allows students to adopt healthy coping mechanisms. The company was founded and led by CEO Vincent Manna. The company started as a student-led enterprise.

Inspiration

My interview with Buddi COO Jack Mitchell illustrated the fortitude and vision behind the scenes at Buddi. Jack, an FDU student at the Florham campus, stated "I found Buddi on LinkedIn and started as a Campus Ambassador. As someone who struggled with ADHD all of my life, this business resonated with me." Jack Mitchell, under Vincent Manna's direction went on to establish a powerful unit of Campus Ambassadors who have helped spread the word about Buddi at universities far and wide. When reflecting on this journey, Jack continued "I am passionate about mental health, and I am passionate about business. I believe we can change the world".

Overall impact

The Buddi App has employed 20-30 part time Campus Ambassador's across the US. This program, led by COO Jack Mitchell, helps students in business fields start their careers at a fast-paced startup.

The long term implications of Buddi's innovations are yet to be explored. With the app relaunching in late November 2023, Buddi expects to have an immediate impact on students across campuses. With a deeper focus on coping mechanisms and resources, Buddi aims to aide in the day-to-day improvements of lifestyle that young adults make.

Business benefit

The Buddi App, before its launch, has fostered relationships with 400 universities and hired between 20-30 Campus Ambassadors. COO Jack Mitchell oversees the Campus Ambassador program, a sales-based component of the business model that helps Buddi establish themselves on campuses across the US. This program helps sales-oriented students to take on real-world work experience with Buddi.

In the next twelve months, Buddi estimates 50-100 closed deals with institutions, generating $200k+ in revenue and impacting 100k students across the country.

Social and environmental benefit

As its core goal of promoting healthy coping mechanisms, Buddi embodies UN SDG #3, "Good Health and Well-being." By helping students reach their optimal mental capacities, Buddi improves access of quality education. From a psychosocial perspective, Buddi offers aspiring professionals in the field with hands on experience. These aspects help them promote and achieve UN SDG #4, "Quality Education." Finally, Buddi’s business model requires universities to adopt its program and application for their students. This inherently strengthens academic communities and supports "Sustainable Cities and Communities," UN SDG #11.

In essence, Buddi not only revolutionizes mental health care but also emerges as a strategic force in fostering holistic well-being, quality education, and sustainable academic communities.

Interview

Jack Mitchell, COO