# TJ Ross

> Co-Founder & Co-CEO of Splash Sports (9-figure valuation gaming platform)

Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Splash Sports, a peer-to-peer sports gaming platform built through the acquisition and merger of RunYourPool and OfficeFootballPool—now home to 2M+ players and 80K commissioners across Survivor, Pick'Em, Quick Picks, One & Done, and Tiers. 9-figure valuation, Series B backed.

We structured Splash as a hybrid of a search fund and venture model—making offers to acquire RunYourPool and OfficeFootballPool before we had the capital to close. That reverse-engineered approach to deal-making and creative negotiation is my specialty.

Previously Founder and CEO of 43Layers (500 Startups Batch 14). Started my career in technology investment banking at Raymond James and Houlihan Lokey, advising on $1B+ in transactions for high-growth tech companies.

Things I can advise on: 
✔️ Creative M&A structures (especially acquiring before raising) 
✔️ Fundraising strategy from seed through Series B 
✔️ Deal-making and negotiation tactics 
✔️ Building and scaling two-sided marketplaces 
✔️ Operating and winning in regulated industries 
✔️ Validating (and killing) startup ideas quickly 
✔️ Zero-to-one product and GTM strategy 
✔️ Scaling revenue in competitive markets 
✔️ Exit strategy and positioning

Best fit for founders considering M&A as a growth strategy, marketplace operators, anyone building in regulated verticals, and founders working in sports or gaming.

Passionate about helping founders navigate zero to one, scale in complex industries, and win against bigger competitors.

## Offerings

- Video call (15 min): $150.00

## Subscription Plans

- Raising smarter capital — 1:1 Fundraising Advisor ($1250.00/month)

## Example Questions

- I’m thinking of starting a company. What are the next few things I should focus on?
- How do I know if my business idea will work?
- How would you approach growth for my business?
- What key metrics should I aim for at different stages to be a best in class company?

## Links

- [Expert profile](/TJRoss)
- [Avatar](https://media.intro.co/avatars/1619539gEG6OwvA.jpg)
- [Marketplace](/marketplace)