Daren Trousdell is the Founder & CEO of OneUp Games, developers of an innovative mobile gaming platform called “Connect” that makes watching live sports more fun and rewarding.
Prior to founding OneUp, Daren founded Mindblossom, an award-winning digital creative and advergaming agency that was acquired by Aegis Media (AGS.L) in 2007. Following the acquisition, Daren became Managing Partner of Isobar North America, Aegis Media’s global digital and mobile marketing arm.
Daren and his wife Vanessa are also active participants in the Canadian & US Start-Up and Digital Marketing community through various advisory roles and investments in transformational, consumer mobile technology. In his spare time, Daren sits on the board of the Walrus Magazine – Canada’s most awarded magazine.
1. What made you take the entrepreneurial leap?
This is my second start-up venture so the leap was pretty easy to make. However, I think this company has more disruptive qualities, which is something I am looking to focus more on than in my first. What drives me every day is that I really want to impact an industry and build products that enhance the overall consumer experience. Although I have had start-up success in the past, I feel the success of this venture will help me reach a new point in my professional life.
2. How would you rank the following factors in determining a startup’s success: Idea, Market, Team. Please explain.
The idea represents 10% and is the spark for success… but it doesn’t necessarily appreciate over time because it’s constantly changing with iteration and market feedback.
The Team (naturally) represents 50%. Although our team will evolve the core-group is so critical to the short and long-term success of the business. Without the team an idea is worthless and success in the market is a long-shot.
The Market is 40%. Without customers or users to consume or use the products and services the best idea and team will amount to nothing. The idea needs to be there to solve a real market problem.
3. What is the hardest part about being an entrepreneur?
The hardest things are the uncertainty and fragmented priorities. Each day a new opportunity or problem arises and it needs immediate attention. For those who can’t multi-task or who are not decisive this is the kiss of death. For me, I thrive in uncertainty because one of the doors we open could be an instant game changer.
4. What is the most rewarding part of being an entrepreneur?
(In no particular order).. The freedom, creativity, constant learning, friendships, dress code (or lack thereof) and opportunity to solve real consumer problems.
5. What’s your advice for someone who is thinking about starting a business?
It is the single most rewarding thing I have ever done. However, it is also the single hardest thing I have ever done. I usually advise most people against it. It has to be in your blood. This is not something you can learn. You either have it or you don’t.
6. Where can we learn more about your company?
Our products and company information are located at http://www.1up.me. We are always looking to connect with smart people and sports fans alike. Feel free to reach out to us anytime!
