Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand, where we explore innovative solutions and entrepreneurial journeys shaping the future of business. In today’s episode, we’re diving into the world of food technology and how AI is being used to tackle everyday challenges like food waste and grocery costs.
Recent trends highlight the growing consumer awareness of sustainability and the increasing reliance on technology to simplify daily tasks. This episode will provide valuable insights into how a Canadian startup is addressing these trends with an innovative platform.
Joining us today are Allison Le, CEO, and Ryo Wu, Business Development Director of COOCO, an AI-powered social networking platform based in Hamilton, Ontario. They are revolutionizing how people engage with food, connecting food lovers, merchants, and brands in a sustainable ecosystem.
Key Highlights:
1. Leveraging AI to Solve Everyday Problems: Allison discusses how COOCO uses AI to tackle food waste, save money, and simplify cooking for busy families, newcomers, and budget-conscious Canadians.
2. Building a Community-Driven Business: Ryo shares how COOCO fosters a vibrant ecosystem where users share recipes, earn rewards, and support local agriculture, benefiting local merchants.
3. Scaling Sustainability and Impact as an SME: Allison explores the challenges and opportunities of scaling COOCO while staying true to its mission of reducing food waste and driving sustainable growth for merchants.
4. Shaping COOCO’s Approach: Ryo reflects on his experiences with international tech giants and how those shaped COOCO’s approach to solving food waste and connecting communities.
5. The Inspiration Behind COOCO: The story behind COOCO’s creation, driven by the common problem of forgetting what you have in the fridge, and how it’s helping families, newcomers, and food lovers waste less and cook more joyfully.
Special Thanks to Our Partners:
- RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html
- UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA
- Google: https://www.google.ca/
For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!
Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
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