Scale Social – MICRO Fall 2024
Published May 14, 2025
As part of our ‘Meet Our Founders’ series today, we introduce Runbin Dong, Founder and CEO of Scale Social based in Raleigh, NC. Scale Social is building the “Canva for short-form videos” that automates the process of capturing, curating, and distributing customer-generated content, specifically designed to help small businesses drive growth through authentic, high-impact digital marketing.
Q: What problem are you trying to solve and what influenced you to start your company?
A: We’re addressing the struggle small businesses face in consistently creating authentic, engaging digital content to drive customer engagement and growth. The inspiration came from seeing small businesses fall behind due to limited marketing resources, and realizing how AI could democratize access to high-quality marketing.
Q: What are you most excited about right now? What keeps you up at night?
A: We’re excited about the traction we’re building and the potential to empower countless small businesses. What keeps me up is the challenge of scaling efficiently while maintaining our platform’s quality and value.
Q: What does the road ahead look like for your company?
A: We aim to expand our platform’s capabilities, develop strategic partnerships, and enter new verticals like events and experience-based businesses (like nail salons, etc.) to amplify our impact on local businesses.
Q: How will your NC IDEA grant funds advance your company?
A: The grant allows us to enhance our AI algorithms, grow our customer base, and establish partnerships in North Carolina, accelerating product development and outreach.
Q: When did you know you wanted to take an entrepreneurial path?
A: I realized my entrepreneurial ambition while working on projects that leveraged AI to address real-world problems; it inspired me to create solutions that drive positive impact.
Q: What have you enjoyed most about starting your own company?
A: Seeing our clients thrive and knowing that our technology directly contributes to their growth has been incredibly fulfilling.
Q: What is one thing you wish you understood about entrepreneurship before you ever got started?
A: The importance of resilience and adaptability. I wish I’d understood just how dynamic the startup journey would be, requiring constant learning and pivoting.
Q: Who do you look to for advice and mentorship?
A: I look to mentors from my previous roles, especially those with experience in AI and product development, as well as entrepreneurs who’ve successfully scaled their own businesses.
Q: What other passions do you have besides your business?
A: I’m passionate about technology’s potential to transform industries and improve lives. Outside of business, I enjoy exploring the latest trends in AI, as well as hiking and reading. Oh, I’m a huge foodie.
While visiting the Triangle, Runbin recommends:
- Tour at Duke, Duke Gardens, or spend a day at Lake Crabtree. Definitely try Mateo’s 😉
Support Scale Social and Runbin by:
- Help us spread the word to more small business owners you know!
