In our previous blog post, we explored the transformation and opportunities within the urban mobility topic in collaboration with the EIT Urban Mobility’s Growth Lab. Within this framework, we interviewed Álvaro Suárez, co-founder and CEO of WAIIS, a pioneering startup in the multimodal and shared mobility area. Suárez shares his journey, insights, and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in urban mobility, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that define this industry.  

When did you decide to pursue a career in urban mobility and why?  

It all started three years ago when my partner Paulo and I had a lunch meeting. Paulo had some intriguing insights about urban mobility and pitched the idea of tackling the oversaturation of ride-hailing apps. The high cancellation rates and unpredictable prices were frustrating for users, and the traffic jams in and out of Barcelona, caused by low-occupancy vehicles, were affecting everyone’s daily lives. We realized that traditional ride-hailing models were outdated, and we aimed to look at the industry with fresh eyes. Our mission was to create a user-focused solution that could turn these challenges into a sustainable and scalable business model. 

What is your educational background and how is it connected with urban mobility topics and solutions like multimodal and shared mobility?  

I have a background in Industrial Engineering, complemented by expertise in finance and innovation. My career spans 10 years in the corporate world and 8 years as an entrepreneur, always focusing on business model innovation and consumer challenges. Multimodal and shared mobility are critical for European cities, much like they have been for Asian cities previously. The key is to develop solutions that cater to European users while complying with evolving regulations. 

What sparked your interest in becoming an entrepreneur and building your own company?   

After a decade working on Innovations at Bosch, I led the development of a solution and took it to the market and, by chance, became the CEO of a joint venture between two industry leaders. This experience ignited my desire to solve challenges independently. I wanted to build value through my own company, ensuring that every decision was driven by my vision, free from external influences. 

What would be your advice for someone who wants to build their own company in the urban mobility space? Highlight 3 skills that you consider essential for someone taking a step forward to start their own company.  

The urban mobility space is incredibly challenging, more so than any other industry I’ve worked in, including home appliances, fragrances, and food. However, it’s also a space filled with opportunities for innovation due to its global impact and regional diversity. My advice is to:  

  1. Be Adaptable: The industry is influenced by various regional, cultural, and administrative factors, so flexibility is crucial.  
  2. Be Innovative: Differentiating yourself in a competitive market requires creative thinking and a user-centric approach.  
  3. Understand Data: Data is key in urban mobility. Knowing how to leverage data to provide value to users can set you apart. 

As a mobility professional, how do you ensure that your set of skills stays relevant, so you are always at the forefront of the urban mobility sector? 

Staying ahead in urban mobility means constantly updating your skill set. Data plays a crucial role, so I always explore new ways to use data for enhancing user experience. We continuously iterate on how to orchestrate mobility using our user data and collaborate with top predictive AI partners to stay at the cutting edge of innovation. By focusing on these data-driven insights and constantly evolving our approach, we can make a significant positive impact on urban mobility, enhancing the quality of life for millions of city dwellers. 

Álvaro Suárez’s journey with WAIIS highlights the potential of multimodal and shared mobility solutions in urban settings, offering valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs entering this dynamic industry. As urban mobility continues to evolve, the EIT Campus catalogue represents a valuable resource, providing essential skills and opportunities to equip innovators to drive change in areas such as sustainable and shared mobility, among other urban mobility topics.  

If you’d like to further explore these topics, we encourage you to comment below and visit our community, where you can find more resources and engage in conversations.