Idea Of the Day: Cashless Tipping

GM. This is Needs to Exist (aka NTE), we have an idea where we turn gratitude into a tap— because cash is so 1999.

Here’s what we’ve got for you today.

  • Daily Idea - Cashless Tipping

  • Regulation > Opportunity - The Gun Locker

Daily Startup Idea

Tips Into Taps

The One Liner

Effortlessly tip hotel staff using your smartphone—no cash, just a quick tap.

The 140 character tweet (or X) version

Imagine tipping hotel staff without needing cash—just a quick scan of a QR code on your phone. Simple, secure, and instant. Welcome to the future of gratitude.

The Longer Story Version - That You Will Maybe Read

You’re lounging by the hotel pool, enjoying the sun, when you realize you need more shade. The pool attendant notices and quickly sets up your umbrella, brings fresh towels, and checks in to make sure you’re comfortable. His excellent service makes your poolside experience perfect, and you want to tip him—but you didn’t bring your wallet, just your phone.

Then you remember the hotel’s new tipping system. The attendant points to a small QR code on his uniform. You pull out your phone, scan the code, and his profile pops up instantly. In a few taps, you select a tip amount, hit confirm, and the money is sent directly to his account—securely and instantly.

No fumbling for cash or feeling guilty about not tipping—just a quick, digital transaction that lets you show your appreciation effortlessly. The attendant smiles, knowing he’s been recognized, and you settle back into your lounger, feeling good about your day by the pool.

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Regulation = OpportunityNew regulations may seem like hurdles, but they actually create opportunities for savvy entrepreneurs to invent innovative solutions.

Let’s get into one!

California's Senate Bill 2 (SB2)

This law passed in 2024 prohibits the carrying of concealed firearms in a wide range of "sensitive places," including places of worship, public libraries, amusement parks, and public transportation. The law applies to both concealed carry permit holders in urban areas and open-carry permit holders in rural regions, significantly restricting where firearms can be legally carried.

The Quick Idea

Smart lockers for secure firearm storage near restricted areas.

In a Nutshell

Launching smart lockers for secure firearm storage near restricted areas like libraries and sports arenas. Rent by the hour, with biometric access and real-time monitoring. Easily book via app.

The Big Scoop

California's new law, effective January 1, 2024, bans the carrying of concealed firearms in various "sensitive places," including libraries, parks, and public transportation. This law affects both concealed carry permit holders in cities and open-carry permit holders in rural areas, creating a significant need for secure firearm storage when entering these restricted zones.

In response, there's an opportunity to provide smart, secure firearm storage lockers near these locations. These lockers, equipped with biometric access and real-time monitoring, can be rented by the hour or day, ensuring that gun owners comply with the law while keeping their firearms safe.

Although this law currently applies to California, similar regulations are emerging nationwide, making this a scalable solution across the U.S. The growing trend of stricter firearm regulations creates a market for this service in various states, offering gun owners a practical solution wherever they travel.

One More Meme