Inspired by the ingenuity of the Korean train station storage system, EZ stash was founded. On a trip to Korea visiting a friend this quick, convenient, and popular storage system caught the eye of founder Shadé Thomas. Recognizing the potential of such a solution in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), she sought to bring this convenience for both the benefit of tourists but to commuters as well. EZ Stash aims to provide safe, secure, and convenient storage when moving around the city.
One of Shadé’s biggest challenges has been locating space for the storage compartments in train stations. Cold calls and cold emails to third-party companies and receiving no response can be discouraging, but Shadé turned those setbacks into motivation. Turning instead to focusing on refining her website and striving to improve her business model in the hopes of securing space for her business to grow. For Shadé, every setback serves as an opportunity for success.
When starting a business there will always be stages of growth. Starting small with less funding and getting the lockers to kick off the business is the goal. Another tactic Shadé is trying to start EZ stash with is using third-party lockers that are already present in train stations and renting them out. Driven by her goals, Shadé is persistent.
The business landscape is completely changing with the presence of AI, and through ICUBE’s Ideation Lab sessions Shadé has learned to take full advantage of its capabilities. Shadé intends to program and implement AI from managing refunds and basic complaints to responding to any queries that clients may have while conveying over more complex questions to her. AI is building a whole new level in the business world and Shadé’s recognition of its potential will undoubtedly put her business on the path to success.
The Ideation Lab empowers entrepreneurs with essential tools to develop their venture and hone their talents. Although Shadé went to university for an engineering degree she has always known deep down it wasn’t right for her. With the Ideation Lab she has found her calling. Shadé testifies that ICUBE facilitated her success with her venture. Weekly sessions have made her accountable for her own progress and put her on track. Connecting with third parties and seasoned entrepreneurs substantially aided in her progression and gave her the opportunity to learn how to use AI tools. Sparking her idea to take advantage of AI tools and apply them to further enhance her business model.
Shadé encourages any aspiring entrepreneurs to grow their venture with ICUBE noting that they aid in laying the foundation of a start-up business and gives insight to all the minute details of running a business. Equipping entrepreneurs with all the tools they need and helping with every stage of development, ICUBE brings your venture to life.
