Mike Domek
TicketsNow
Mike Domek founded VIP Tour Company in 1992 with a one hundred dollar investment and an abundance of ambition. Armed with a strong work ethic, keen sales acumen, and a flair for finding and selling event tickets, Mike quickly transformed VIP Tour Company into a professional, full-service ticketing agency.
In June 1999, still with no venture capital, Mike launched the TicketsNow.com Web site. The online business instantly captured the attention of the secondary ticketing industry as well as the media, including Inc. Magazine, which featured TicketsNow as one of the “Great Companies Started for $1,000 or Less.” In 2001, under Mike’s direction, the company’s software division rolled out the EventInventory Web store plug-in. This cutting-edge technology and subsequent programs have established TicketsNow.com as the world’s largest and most trusted online marketplace for premium event tickets.
After raising $34 million in venture capital in March 2007 and continuing to grow, TicketsNow was acquired by TicketMaster in February 2008.
Memberships and recognition:
*November 2004, Mike is named to the prestigious Crain’s Chicago Business “40 Under 40.” This annually assembled list recognizes 40 of the most influential people in the Chicago area.
*April 2006, Mike is named one of Chicago’s top 10 Entrepreneurs by Chicago Magazine.
*September 2007, TicketsNow is named #6 among the fastest-growing companies in Chicago by Crain’s Chicago Business.
Mike is currently a member of YPO (Young Presidents Organization) as well as the Economic Club of Chicago.
Mike currently sits on the board of the local Big Brothers Big Sisters chapter as well as the board of the ITA (Illinois Technology Association).