Driving Government Innovation: How Shane Bigelow and CHAMP Titles are transforming public sector tech
CHAMP CEO Shane Bigelow
Modernizing government systems is a challenge few startups dare to tackle. But CHAMP Titles, under the leadership of co-founder and CEO Shane Bigelow, is proving it can be done, and done from Ohio.
Bigelow, whose background spans finance, capital markets, and emerging technologies, launched CHAMP to digitize one of the most outdated government processes: vehicle titling. The company helps state governments replace paper-based systems with fully digital solutions that make buying, selling, and managing vehicle titles faster, more secure, and far less bureaucratic.
From “A-Ha” Moment to Action
Bigelow’s inspiration for CHAMP came from recognizing just how inefficient and antiquated title processing was, and how it impacted millions of consumers, dealerships, lenders, and government agencies. “It was one of those rare opportunities where fixing one thing could create value at scale for so many stakeholders,” said Bigelow.
His experience in finance and technology helped shape the company’s approach. “We knew we needed enterprise-grade infrastructure from day one,” Bigelow noted. “Government systems handle sensitive data and high-volume transactions. You don’t get a second chance to earn trust in this space.”
Breaking Into Government Tech
Convincing government agencies to embrace new technology isn’t easy. Legacy systems, risk aversion, and complex procurement processes often stall innovation. But Bigelow saw this as an opportunity to build relationships, not just sell software.
“We approached it by asking, ‘How can we help?’ not ‘What can we sell you?’” Bigelow explained. This focus on partnership, combined with a deep understanding of regulatory requirements, allowed CHAMP to earn the trust of public sector leaders.
Ohio proved to be an ideal testbed. With a strong tech ecosystem, a supportive business climate, and a willingness among government stakeholders to pilot new ideas, CHAMP had the foundation it needed to scale.
Redefining Business-to-Government Collaboration
At its core, CHAMP represents a new kind of business-to-government (B2G) relationship—one that combines startup agility with public sector responsibility. Bigelow points out that success in this space depends on balancing speed with rigor.
“Governments need reliable partners, not just fast-moving vendors,” he said. “That’s where emerging technologies like blockchain and cloud architecture help. They give us the flexibility of a startup with the resilience of an enterprise.”
By streamlining title processing, CHAMP not only helps state agencies reduce costs and fraud but also delivers better service to end users, citizens who expect digital convenience in every part of life.
Lessons for Founders in Regulated Markets
For entrepreneurs looking to break into regulated industries, Bigelow offers practical advice: be patient, be precise, and hire wisely. “You need a team that can speak both languages. The pace of tech and the caution of government,” he said.
Bigelow warns that many startups misstep by trying to move too fast without understanding regulatory realities. “It’s not just about great tech. It’s about great alignment with public needs and processes.”
Built in Ohio, Built for Impact
Bigelow is passionate about Ohio’s role as a GovTech leader. “We have everything we need here to build world-class public sector technology companies,” he said. “Talent, cost structure, and a collaborative environment. The opportunity is enormous.”
As CHAMP continues its mission to modernize title systems across the country, Bigelow remains focused on what matters most: delivering real value to governments and the people they serve.
“The work we’re doing at CHAMP is about more than technology. It’s about making government work better for everyone,” he said.
Learn more about CHAMP and their work at www.champtitles.com