Forming meaningful connections
Leonie Cutts and Craig Browne, who were participants in I2N’s Accelerator Cohort 2023, are veterans of the board game industry and co-founders of CCS Corporation. They are also now the creative minds behind CARISA, an innovative app designed to combat social isolation in residential aged care facilities.
At I2N’s Startup Stories at I2N Hub Honeysuckle on Wednesday 3 July, Leonie and Craig shared their journey from creating popular board games and learning tools to developing a tech solution for a pressing social issue. With over 30 years of experience in fostering meaningful connections through games, they're now applying their expertise to improve the quality of life for aged care residents.
Catch up on Startup Stories with Craig and Leonie
Top Takeaways
- Rejection in the startup world should be viewed as valuable information rather than personal failure. It's crucial to separate yourself from your product.
- Technology should be used to enhance human connections in aged care, not replace them. The goal is to activate and facilitate care, not automate it.
- Successful transition from physical products to digital solutions requires listening closely to user feedback and being willing to adapt your approach.
- Participating in accelerator programs can provide crucial mentorship and peer support for entrepreneurs, especially when entering new industries.
Craig emphasised, "With CARISA, we want to activate and facilitate care, not automate care. But, just like a great board game, there are lots of twists, and surprising challenges to overcome."
The University of Newcastle's I2N works with individuals and organisations from across the Hunter region and beyond to turn ideas and challenges into opportunity. As a leading driver of economic and business growth, the I2N cultivates an entrepreneurial mindset that is behind many of the region's most innovative businesses and leaders.
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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