Interview with Erwin Germain, Founder of TreadShare

Thayer Hirsh: Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Erwin Germain, the founder of TreadShare, a promising new tech company based out of Copper Mountain, Colorado here in Summit County. Erwin, congratulations on your recent acceptance into the Rockies Venture Club HyperAccelerator program. Can you tell us a bit about TreadShare and what it aims to achieve?

Erwin Germain: Thank you! TreadShare is a mobile app that links drivers and riders heading in the same direction so they can carpool in the driver’s personal vehicle, while sharing the associated costs. Our goal is to make transportation more efficient and eco-friendly by reducing the number of vehicles on the road, particularly in mountainous regions. It is also a cost-effective travel solution for residents and visitors in Summit County and beyond.

Thayer: That's a fantastic initiative. What does being accepted into the Rockies Venture Club HyperAccelerator program mean for you and TreadShare?

Erwin: Being accepted into the HyperAccelerator program is a huge milestone for us. It provides us with a unique opportunity to refine our business model, scale our operations, and connect with potential investors. The program is incredibly competitive, so being selected is a testament to the potential impact of TreadShare. It means access to invaluable mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities that can help propel our company to the next level.

Thayer: How do you see this development impacting Summit County?

Erwin: By providing a more environmentally friendly transportation solution, we can help preserve the natural beauty of our region, reduce traffic year round, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents. It also puts a spotlight on the innovative potential within our community. We hope that TreadShare, and other local startups, will stimulate local economic growth by creating great paying year round jobs.

Thayer: I’m not trying to self promote too much, but the Summit Economic Partnership played a role in helping you get into the HyperAccelerator program. Can you elaborate on that?

Erwin: You and SEP have been instrumental in our application. I received help reviewing and refining our pitch deck, ensuring it is concise yet compelling. Your guidance was crucial in highlighting the potential of TreadShare and presenting our vision clearly and effectively. 

Thayer: What are your next steps as you enter this program?

Erwin: We’re excited to meet with the seven other companies from Colorado, and to begin fundraising for our seed round. Also, by the end of the year, we will be launching a new feature for ski resorts and other businesses so that their employees will be able to carpool under private groups. This has been a long time request from one of the county’s resorts.

Thayer: It sounds like an exciting time for TreadShare and Summit County. Is there anything else you'd like to share with our readers?

Erwin: I just want to express my gratitude for the support we've received from the Summit Economic Partnership, the Summit Founder Coopetition and now the Rockies Venture Club HyperAccelerator. We're committed to making a positive impact and are excited for what the future holds. If anyone is interested in learning more or joining our ride-sharing community, they can visit our website at treadshare.com.

Thayer: Thank you for your time, Erwin, and best of luck with TreadShare and the HyperAccelerator program.

Erwin Germain: Thank you!