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March 29, 2023: What AI Can Do in 30 Minutes
plus: we meet another Founder taking the stage at TechTO, learn more about what's happening with AI and more
Alex at TechTO
March 29, 2023
Profile: Hussein Fazal and Super
What is Super?
Super is the all-in-one savings super app for everyday people looking to save money, access credit, and experience more of what life has to offer.
What was the insight/inspiration that led you to launch it?
Prior to co-founding Super, I co-founded AdParlor, a Facebook ad optimization company. Super has been driven with the vision to help a previously underserved demographic experience more of what life has to offer - with a focus on spending less, saving more, and building credit.
How has it been received by the market? Why do you think it has been so well received?
We entered the space with great hotel deals on SuperTravel (previously Snaptravel). It has been so well received because people want to save! Price is typically the most important factor when determining who to book a hotel with.
How did you know you were ready to found a company?
Super is the second company I have founded. It was much easier the second time around as I knew exactly what I was getting into. I honestly enjoy the thrill of building companies and winning.
How did you meet your founders/know they were the right people to start a company with?
Henry and I both graduated from Waterloo and met through mutual friends. We have very similar values and complementary skill sets!
What has been the hardest thing on your journey so far?
The constant struggle with work-life balance. Running a startup is not easy. Always making trade-offs and it gets harder as your commitments grow!
What has been the most pleasant surprise?
It has been great to see the impact we can make in our customers’ lives. Stories of families who have been able to go on a trip because of the hotel deal they found on SuperTravel. Now starting to hear direct customer stories where they finally have access to rich cashback rewards (vs. typically paying with their debit cards and earning nothing)
What is your super strength?
Staying calm in the chaos (COVID-19, SVB…) and being able to clearly communicate internally and externally. As a company grows this becomes more and more important.
What are you trying to achieve over the next 12 months?
Super is looking to become a super app that customers think about every time they want to save money.
What advice do you wish you had been given prior to launching?
I wish I had been told that it is okay to dedicate your life to work, for a while.
I was absolutely bootstrapped, working 18 hours a day, 7 days a week. I took off a few hours once a week (usually a Friday or Saturday night). These were the formative years for me in developing a work ethic that has carried me. However, I spent many nights doubting my choice to do so. I have now co-founded two successful companies and have a beautiful life and family that I am proud of.
Because of hard work in my 20’s, I can enjoy this success.
What is your proudest accomplishment outside of your startup?
I am incredibly thankful for and proud of my family. I have an amazing wife and son who make everything in my life more meaningful.
Connect with Hussein and learn more about his journey here
Hussein will be taking the stage at our upcoming Best of TechTO event on April 3! Learn more about his journey, advice for succeeding as an entrepreneur, and more!
Your ticket also grants you access to our exclusive after-party and a free drink!
You'll also have the chance to meet and mingle with mayoral candidates running for the city of Toronto.
TICKETS ARE GOING FAST!
LISTEN TO THE NEWEST EPISODE OF QUICK TAKES:
Quick Takes returns on April 6
Quick Takes returns LIVE with a brand new episode on April 6 at 12:00 pm ET/9:00 am PT across the TechTO platforms.
Catch up on past episodes here, and subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Headlines and Content
#ICYMI - Catch up on past newsletters if you hadn't yet subscribed!
Canadian Startup news of the week >> LEARN MORE
Raise News: 3E Nano, a Toronto-based developer of solar control coatings for windows, raised $4m USD in seed funding. Energy Foundry led and was joined by MUUS Climate Partners, ACT Venture Partners, Creative Ventures, New Climate Ventures, Vector Capital, and VentureLab >> READ MORE
What can AI do in 30 minutes? >> READ MORE
AI is happening really fast. Here's what's going on >> READ MORE
TechTO Talent
Director of Go-To-Market, Metaspectral (Vancouver, BC | Remote)
Why is this cool? Metaspectral delivers the next generation of computer vision software, capable of remotely identifying materials and determining their chemical composition, defects, and other properties otherwise invisible to conventional cameras. The Director of Go-to-Market will be responsible for leading the development and execution of the company's go-to-market strategy and sales efforts. This includes establishing sales processes, building and managing a sales team, and identifying and pursuing new business opportunities >> APPLY HERE
Customer Success Manager, Loopio (Vancouver, BC)
Why is this cool? Loopio is a platform to streamline the response process. Today, 1000+ companies trust Loopio to help them answer RFPs, RFIs, DDQs, bids, and more. Loopio is looking for a relationship-focused, data-oriented individual who wants to join the Customer Success team, to help manage client accounts, and collaborate with the wider Customer Success team on initiatives to drive forward their CS Team >> APPLY HERE
Legal 101 for Startups - Hosted by the DMZ
Why is this cool? The legal stuff in startups can be complicated and boring. To help, the DMZ is offering a down-to-earth, easy-to-understand Legal 101 for Startups workshop on Thursday, March 30 from 3:00-4:00 PM. Discover the top legal tips to help you protect your business, reduce risk, and feel confident navigating the startup legal landscape. Join in person at the DMZ or virtually. RSVP to reserve your spot >> LEARN MORE HERE
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Events and Links
Check out the interesting content, events, and happenings for the community here:
Best of TechTO Returns! April 3, 2023 >> REGISTER HERE - LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE! Your ticket also includes a free drink and access to our After Party!
*EXCLUSIVE TECHTO INSIDERS SOCIAL: April 13, 2023 >> Learn more about how to attend on our website >> LEARN MORE
TechTO Together RETURNS TO MONTREAL: April 25, 2023 >> REGISTER HERE
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