Do you remember the last time you struggled to navigate a crowded venue, worried about losing track of your family?
For Brandon Kashani, founder and CEO of TRACKID and CheQRboard, this challenge became the spark for his entrepreneurial journey. While studying chemical engineering at NC State, Brandon took an entrepreneurship class that set him on an unexpected path. What started as a class project—a device to help parents track their children in amusement parks—soon evolved into a full-fledged startup.
In the latest episode of Founder Shares, Brandon opens up about the highs and lows of building a company from the ground up. After securing early contracts with amusement parks, the COVID-19 pandemic brought everything to a halt, forcing a major pivot. Faced with a collapsing market, Brandon and his team adapted by expanding into zoos and outdoor venues. Their initial focus on lost-child tracking transformed into something even bigger—gamified educational experiences and AI-powered QR code solutions that enhance visitor engagement at venues worldwide.
Brandon credits much of his success to relentless networking and relationship-building. “I full-time network,” he shared. “You either network for customers, for advisors and mentors, or for investment. It’s all relationship-building.” This approach has helped him attract top-tier investors and mentors, including industry leaders like the former GM of Walt Disney World and the creator of Alexa and Echo.
CheQRboard, his latest product, emerged from customer feedback and a desire to streamline venue operations. By integrating AI-driven QR codes, venues can offer multilingual, interactive experiences without the hassle of app downloads or extensive staff training. The pivot not only broadened the company’s market reach but also skyrocketed profit margins from under 30% to over 99%.
Brandon’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and strategic growth. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a business leader, or someone fascinated by tech-driven innovation, his insights provide invaluable lessons on overcoming setbacks, embracing change, and leveraging networks for success.
Tune in to Founder Shares to hear how Brandon Kashani is reshaping the way venues engage their visitors. Available now wherever you listen to podcasts.
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