Rhino Analytics, founded by Luna Yang, is a platform that empowers local businesses to grow through community-powered affiliate marketing. We provide local businesses with personalized affiliate links that micro-influencers can use to promote on social media. In return, these influencers earn a small percentage for every sale they help generate—creating a win-win dynamic that drives authentic local engagement and sales.
What drew you to entrepreneurship? Do you have family who are entrepreneurs? Have you always been creative/entrepreneurial?
I didn’t come from a family of entrepreneurs, but I’ve always been drawn to solving problems creatively. My journey began with small projects—dropshipping, wholesaling, crypto—but it was Amazon FBA where I found the most success. Over time, my interests evolved toward data-driven ventures, which aligned more closely with what I had studied at Western. What kept me coming back was the freedom to build from the ground up—on my own terms, with my own interpretation and execution. Entrepreneurship allows me to see the real impact of my actions, and that’s what drives me.
What problem are you solving, and what is your unique approach?
Local businesses often struggle to grow their customer base online without relying on expensive marketing agencies or paid ads that don’t always deliver results. At the same time, micro-influencers want to promote the brands they genuinely love—but they rarely have the tools to do so in an efficient and monetizable way.
Rhino bridges this gap. We’ve built a simple, trackable affiliate platform that allows local businesses to offer links to micro-influencers—who can then promote them organically. Our technology tracks clicks, conversions, and commissions, making it easy for everyone to benefit. It’s authentic marketing powered by real community voices.
How did you come across this problem and why did it appeal to you?
I see social media marketing playing an increasingly critical role for businesses of all sizes.
This shift began in Asia, where social media marketing became a game-changer, allowing businesses to connect directly with their communities. Now, this trend is rapidly gaining momentum in North America, with local businesses recognizing the power of these authentic, impactful voices. At Rhino, we saw an opportunity to capitalize on this growth and create a platform that bridges the gap between businesses and micro-influencers.
It all began with conversations. We saw many local businesses struggling to gain traction with traditional marketing methods or on social media. At the same time, micro-influencers were eager to promote the brands they loved but lacked an effective way to be rewarded for their efforts. The idea was simple: small voices, amplifying small businesses. That’s when we knew we had to build something that would turn this vision into reality.
What are you hoping to accomplish for your start-up at the Western Accelerator?
At the Western Accelerator, we're aiming to refine Rhino’s core value proposition and validate our business model through real-world traction. We’re looking to strengthen our pitch, connect with experienced mentors, and build visibility across Ontario. With the Accelerator’s support, we want to position Rhino as the go-to affiliate platform for grassroots marketing in local communities.
What is the biggest lesson you've learned so far during your time at the Western Accelerator?
- Features don’t sell, outcomes do.
- Keep it simple.