Harnessing Technology for Good

After graduating with an MBA in 2014, Sean Higgins emerged as a key player in Minnesota, the Startup Capital of the North. Founder of St. Paul-based video startup ilos videos, he led impressive sales from $0-1 million in annual revenue and raised $3 million in capital.

As awareness and concern about gadget overuse began to build, Sean shifted his focus to a new business venture that tames smartphone use. In 2018, he launched BetterYou, a digital coach that's helped thousands of users focus on their health and wellness.

Using AI to help people make better use of their time, the app is programmed with goals for sleeping, fitness, social interactions, and meditations. When you fall behind on your goals, a gentle “nudge” reminds you to get back on track. The idea of taking tiny steps to improve yourself has paid dividends; Sean raised $1 million in seed financing in its first year.

We help thousands of people focus on their mental and physical health.

Sean's experience at Opus College transformed his space of impact. He learned how to give a compelling presentation, showcasing his skills by winning several pitch competitions and presenting at Techstars Demo Day. A negotiation class equipped him with practical insights to negotiate hundreds of contracts and craft business plans throughout his career.

As a mentor to dozens of startups since 2016, Sean motivates other entrepreneurs to dream big. He's consulted young companies at Techstars Retail, a 13-week mentorship and training program in partnership with Target. He also shares startup expertise at events like Twin Cities Startup Week, which attracts 17,000 attendees every year.

Always a critical thinker with big ideas, Sean has found ways to adapt, persist, and succeed in the face of challenge. This powerhouse entrepreneur keeps the tech hive buzzing outside of Silicon Valley, harnessing tech for good and inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.