Publications
Publications
- November 2014 (Revised June 2016)
- HBS Case Collection
Lobbying at eCab
By: Karthik Ramanna
Abstract
Erin Jones' ridesharing startup in her mid-sized hometown is finally picking up. She's hoping to reach a sustainable scale so that she can sell to a large player such as Uber in a year. But suddenly, she hits political roadblocks—the local Democratic mayor, facing a tough reelection and urged by the local taxi association, calls for more regulation of her business. Erin's board urges her to actively back the opposition Republican candidate through direct PAC giving, a Super PAC, and indirect lobbying. Erin, a lifelong Democrat, is opposed to the Republican on a number of personal issues. She must decide whether and how to engage in this election.
Citation
Ramanna, Karthik. "Lobbying at eCab." Harvard Business School Case 115-025, November 2014. (Revised June 2016.)