Automating green spaces for thriving cities
Claire Jones and Jared Lawlor, co-founders of Cloud Grow, are innovators in automated irrigation technology for green infrastructure. Their journey began with Herb Urban, a community gardening startup that evolved into a tech-driven solution for watering green roofs and walls.
At I2N’s Startup Stories event on Wednesday 21 August at the I2N Hub Honeysuckle, Claire and Jared shared how their passion for gardening and automation sparked a business helping urban environments flourish with minimal manual maintenance.
From their first community garden with smart sensors and a rooftop water tank, to scaling installations in commercial spaces like the Carrington Bowling Club, they have transformed green infrastructure irrigation.
Top Takeaways
- Solving real problems by combining gardening experience with automation expertise creates meaningful innovation.
- Scaling green infrastructure requires balancing technology and service to avoid overwhelming operational complexity.
- Customer feedback is key to evolving prototypes into scalable products.
- Life changes can inspire entrepreneurial shifts — Jared’s hospital stay was pivotal in refocusing his career.
- Sustainable urban spaces benefit from smart solutions that automate care without losing human oversight.
Jared noted, "Our goal with Cloud Grow is to create irrigation systems that let green spaces look after themselves, helping cities stay lush and vibrant with less effort."
The University of Newcastle’s I2N supports founders like Claire and Jared, turning ideas into sustainable business solutions that contribute to community wellbeing and regional growth.
Keep up to date with future I2N events, programs and opportunities by subscribing to I2N's monthly newsletter or visit www.newcastle.edu.au/i2n
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Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.