10 questions for Marcio Nigro, founder of Caronetas

The easiest way to explain Caronetas is …
smart ridesharing - a free website that offers security by authenticating users through the companies they work for. Besides the value generation, it also contributes to the environment, helping to reduce CO2 emissions.

The idea came…
to me in 2009 from a desire to actively reduce traffic in cities.

I believe it is the right time for Caronetas to take off because…
Collaborative Consumption is top of mind - at the moment people are re-thinking their consumption habits and at the same time, many cities have exceeded their capacity to absorb new cars.

Favorite Caronetas success story so far…
A short story that represents the Caronetas spirit - we matched two people who work together (5 feet away from each other), but did not know that they lived at the same street. They were able to form a carpool and save money on their way to work.

The biggest challenge to overcome is…
People’s understanding is that carpool is not safe (old view). Our mission is to show that our site provides safe carpooling and it’s possible through the authentication of users by the companies they work for.

A unique fact that surprises people is…
that Caronetas is free for companies and users and we provide sustainability reports to the participant companies.

The greatest start-up advice you were ever given…
Some time ago, someone gave me a book called “Getting to Plan B”, by Mullins & Komisar - that has become my real guide during this journey.

What advice can you share about building the right team?…
Look for 3 basic characteristics in people: character, those who pursue excellence and potential.

Another Brazilian start-up you admire is…
DescolaAí , founded by Guilherme Brammer, a site that fosters exchanges and rental of used products. This site creates value and nurtures rational and smart consumption.

It’s 2015 and Caronetas has become…
the biggest and safest carpool site in the world. It has become a viable alternative in people’s lives.

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POSTED IN: CC Pioneers and Protagonists / FOR: September 15, 2011