Gaurav Chauhan. I'm the CEO and Co-founder of KonarkPro.  

What is your company? Describe your value proposition.  

KonarkPro streamlines time tracking and invoicing for companies using an hourly billing model, saving them valuable time and ensuring they get paid promptly. Our software automates the tedious manual tasks of collecting and formatting timesheets, generating invoices, and sending them to clients, so companies can focus on their core business operations.

What inspired you to start your company?  

Before the pandemic, my product development company, Jellyfish Technologies, operated smoothly, but once everyone went remote, tracking our billable hours became a major challenge. Our billing timeline, which used to be between the first to fifth of every month, became extended by 10 days due to the manual task of collecting data from team members and compiling it in the proper format. As a result, we were getting paid in 45 days, which negatively impacted our cash flow. 

To solve this problem, we developed a small desktop app that automatically tracked hours, which proved to be a game-changer. We continued improving the app and eventually built a web-based version. After sharing the app with my friends, I realized that there was a significant demand for this type of software in the market. That's when I decided to turn this solution into a product and founded KonarkPro. 

What does your company name mean to you?  

The name KonarkPro holds deep significance for our company. Konark, an ancient temple in India’s state of Orissa, has been used for centuries to track time, aligning with our focus on providing a time-tracking solution. Additionally, as the temple is dedicated to the Sun God, we drew inspiration from its association with productivity and efficiency. By combining Konark with 'Pro' which stands for productivity, we aim to create a brand that represents our mission to help businesses optimize their productivity and streamline their operations. 

KonarkPro is a cloud-based time tracking and invoicing software designed for businesses that operate on an hourly billing model. Users can sign up for the software as a service and create their own workspace, inviting team members to join. 

Team members can then track their time using the desktop application, which offers granular tracking options, or they can simply log their time and add a description via the web application. This data is automatically collected and organized, allowing project managers and administrators to easily download timesheets and invoices directly from the platform. 

Our software is intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy for businesses of all sizes to streamline their time-tracking and invoicing processes. 

Our ideal client is any company that operates on an hourly billing model and requires an efficient and reliable solution to track their billable hours and generate invoices. This includes small and medium-sized businesses, as well as larger enterprises, across a range of industries such as software development, consulting, marketing, and more. Our software is designed to be customizable to meet the unique needs of each individual business, making it an ideal solution for any company looking to streamline its time-tracking and invoicing processes. 

Users care about our product because it simplifies their time-tracking and invoicing processes, making them more efficient and accurate. When we talk to people, we often hear that they are spending their weekends filling out timesheets instead of spending time with family and friends. Our software helps to give that valuable time back to users, allowing them to use it more effectively and enjoy their personal time without the added burden of manual time tracking. By automating these processes, we take the dirty work off their plate and allow them to focus on the more important aspects of their work and personal lives. 

Although I never had any specific plans to come to Canada, I found myself visiting twice - first in 2016 to meet with clients, and then in 2021 as part of a NASSCOM delegation to explore business opportunities in North America. During the delegation, I had the chance to visit several provinces and I began to seriously consider the idea of relocating to Canada to better serve my clients in this region. 

To make this a reality, I applied for a Start-up Visa Program and was accepted into five different accelerators. After completing all the necessary requirements and receiving an endorsement from LatAm Startups, I was able to secure my visa and relocate with my family to Canada last year. It has been an exciting journey so far, and I'm looking forward to continuing to grow my business in this dynamic and innovative market. 

Can you tell us about any eye-opening moments you had when you first arrived in Canada? 

Yes, I would say that one of the biggest surprises for me upon coming to Canada was the need to unlearn certain habits and approaches that had served me well in my home country but were not necessarily applicable in this new context. As an entrepreneur, I had to be open to feedback from others and willing to constantly learn and adapt in order to succeed in this new market. 

In particular, I found that being receptive to feedback and constantly striving to improve myself and my business has been a key factor in my success here. I have learned to approach each challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow, and to leverage the insights and expertise of others in order to drive innovation and create value for my clients. Overall, I would say that the biggest surprise for me has been the need to remain humble and flexible in the face of new challenges, and to embrace a mindset of continuous learning and improvement as a key driver of success. 

There are a number of ways we are marketing our product to potential clients. One of the key strategies we're currently using is targeted proof-of-concepts (POCs) to ensure that we are providing value to the right companies. In addition, we're reaching out to potential clients in Canada through LinkedIn, particularly in the accounting and call center industries. 

Moving forward, we plan to increase our focus on email marketing and content-based marketing to expand our reach and build our brand. We also plan to connect with Chambers of Commerce to build relationships with businesses and spread awareness of our product. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that we are providing a valuable service to our clients and that they are able to see the benefits of using our software for their time-tracking and billing needs. 

What makes Konark pro? Describe your team.  

Konark Pro is a company founded by myself and Amit Kumar Pandey, who is based in India. Our partnership started with the founding of Jellyfish Technologies in 2011, which still employs over a hundred people and continues to be a successful business. In 2016, we founded Jellyfish Telecommunications, where we built IoT products, and now Konark Pro is our third venture. 

Our team in India assists us with product development and marketing, while I handle the operations in Canada. We are planning to expand our team in Canada this year and continue to grow our company. 

What kind of person would succeed in your company?  

At Konark Pro, we value individuals who are self-motivated, adaptable, and passionate about what they do. We are a fast-paced startup, so it is important that our team members can take initiative and work independently, while also collaborating effectively with others. A successful person at Konark Pro is someone who is willing to learn and grow with the company, and who has a strong work ethic and attention to detail. We also value diversity and inclusion, so we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply and join our team. 

What do you consider your biggest accomplishments?  

In 2016, my co-founder and I faced a major setback as our first company was about to fail. But instead of giving up, we decided to rebuild it from the ground up. The ability to persist in the face of adversity and turn things around is something that I consider to be our biggest accomplishment. 

What are new and exciting things you are working on?  

We are constantly innovating and enhancing our product based on customer feedback. We are excited to bring new features and functionalities to our platform that will make time tracking even more effortless and efficient for businesses. Additionally, we recently completed the Acceleration + program, and we are excited to apply the valuable insights and strategies we gained from the program to our business. We are always looking for ways to improve and grow, and we are excited for the future of KonarkPro. 

Tell us a little bit about your experience with Acceleration + and what you found beneficial.  

Acceleration + was an intensive program that demanded a lot from me, but I was determined to make the most of it despite my busy schedule as an entrepreneur. Even though I had to juggle many responsibilities from my home country and Canada, I attended every meeting and found it to be a great achievement. One of the most valuable aspects of the program was having access to experienced mentors who challenged me with tough questions, pushing me to think more deeply about my business. The insights and knowledge gained from the program have been extremely beneficial in helping me take my company to the next level. 

What is your long-term vision for your company?  

Our long-term vision for KonarkPro is to become the go-to solution for businesses struggling with time tracking. Our goal is to empower people to work more efficiently without sacrificing their personal time to do invoicing, project tracking, or billing. We want KonarkPro to be recognized as a brand synonymous with friendly, efficient, and effective time tracking. Achieving this vision will be a significant milestone for us, and we are committed to making it a reality. 

Are there any trends you see in the market?  

One trend I've noticed is that many of our competitors have a broad approach to market segmentation. In contrast, we are focused on building niche solutions for specific industries, such as time tracking for accounting firms or call centers. This approach sets us apart in the market and helps us to establish a reputation as experts in these areas. We believe this strategy will help us achieve our long-term vision of becoming the go-to company for efficient and friendly time tracking." 

What is your special talent or hobby that no one knows about?  

 I have a passion for riding motorcycles, something not many people know about me. It all started in 2009 when I bought my first bike, a Royal Enfield. I loved taking it on long rides and exploring different parts of India, particularly the beautiful Himalayan mountains. Even after selling that bike, I couldn't resist getting another one. I've owned a Fatboy and most recently a Hayabusa, both of which I've taken on countless adventures. Unfortunately, since moving to Canada, I haven't had a bike, but who knows what the future holds. 

How can anyone reading this assist you or be a part of your company?  

If you know of any firms struggling with tracking their billable hours, we would love to hear from you. We're always looking to connect with businesses that could benefit from our time-tracking solutions and are open to exploring potential partnerships or collaborations. 

TechPlace is a fantastic coworking space that offers a supportive and collaborative working environment. I was first introduced to it in 2021 during a presentation by Izabela, and since then, I have had the pleasure of connecting with some of the other entrepreneurs who work here. The staff are incredibly friendly and approachable, and there are plenty of resources available to help startups grow and thrive. I particularly appreciate the presence of organizations like Haltech and Angel One, which can provide funding advice when needed. Plus, the coffee is great, and the views from the workspace are truly spectacular. 

Is there anything that you are reading or listening to that you find inspiring and willing to share with our readers? 

I'm an avid reader and podcast listener, and I'd like to share some of my sources of inspiration with your readers. A friend of mine, Beatriz Zanatelli, recommended the book "Psycho-Cybernetics" by Maxwell Maltz, which I found amazing. 

I also enjoy listening to "Find A Way," a podcast run by my LatAm's Alumni, which features inspiring stories of immigrants who started their own businesses in Canada. 

In addition to that, I often read blogs such as Farnam Street, Finshots, and The Ken. Finally, there's a quote I love and live by: "Comparison is the thief of joy." 

How can we get in contact with you or your company?

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chauhangaurav/ 

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/konark-pro/ 

In Conversation with Gaurav Chauhan from KonarkPro

Burlington, ON – Burlington Economic Development received a 2023 Excellence in Economic Development Silver Award from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) for its 2021 Annual Report. This recognition highlights Burlington EcDev’s commitment to excellence in economic development and innovative approach to reporting and data.  

“Burlington Economic Development has raised the bar for excellence in economic development with its 2021 Annual Report. This award is a testament to Burlington Economic Development’s dedication to its residents and serves as a great example of how economic development can help transform a community for the better,” said Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO. “It is IEDC’s honor and privilege to present Burlington Economic Development with this award and recognize its leadership and innovation in the field of economic development!” 

Every year IEDC looks specifically for economic development organizations, government entities, initiatives, and programs that have demonstrated consistent, exemplary performance in the economic development profession, leading the execution of projects that have a significant impact on revitalizing communities, and playing a major role in shaping and improving the practice of economic development. 

“We are truly honored to receive this Silver Award from the International Economic Development Council,” said Anita Cassidy, Executive Director of Burlington Economic Development. “This recognition reflects our team’s dedication to driving economic prosperity in Burlington and our commitment to transparency and showcasing the work we do in a creative and interesting format. We are proud to share this achievement with our community, our partners, and all those who have supported us in our mission.” 

Burlington Economic Development’s 2021 Annual Report can be found here.  

Burlington Economic Development (Burlington EcDev) is an agency of the City of Burlington that works to attract high-value companies to Burlington, support the expansion of existing businesses, and encourage the start-up and growth of new companies. The team works across all industries and sectors to deliver personalized support to businesses and collaborates with partners across the private and public sectors to maintain Burlington’s robust and diverse economy. 

About the International Economic Development Council 

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is a non-profit, non-partisan membership organization serving economic developers. With more than 4,300 members, IEDC is the largest organization of its kind. Economic developers promote economic well-being and quality of life for their communities by creating, retaining, and expanding jobs that facilitate growth, enhance wealth, and provide a stable tax base. From public to private, rural to urban, and local to international, IEDC’s members engage in the full range of economic development practices. Given the breadth of economic development work, our members are employed in various settings, including local, state, provincial, and federal governments, public-private partnerships, chambers of commerce, universities, and a variety of other institutions. When we succeed, our members create high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities, and improve the quality of life in their regions. Learn more at iedconline.org.  

Burlington Economic Development Receives 2023 Excellence in Economic Development Silver Award from the International Economic Development Council 

As the scale and impact of Acceleration+ continues to thrive, we’re excited to help ensure 10 more international startups make a successful expansion into Canadian & U.S. markets. We had the privilege of hosting our Acceleration+ Welcome Week event at TechPlace on September 21st, 2023, bringing together program partners and participants for an exciting kick-off to Cohort 3. The event provided an opportunity for the startups to meet one another and connect with mentors and advisors, setting the stage for a successful cohort. 

Acceleration+ supports innovative international startups looking to expand faster into Canadian and U.S. markets by working closely with them to develop and execute a tailored expansion plan. Acceleration+ is a program funded by the Government of Canada, through the Deleral Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), in partnership with LatAm Startups, Haltech Regional Innovation Centre, TechPlace and Innovation Factory.

Related: Three Regional Economic Development Organizations Announce New Program to Support International Tech Startups and Scaleups in Southwestern Ontario

“Acceleration+ Program has been immensely helpful in growing our startup, as they have connected us with the right people and given us access to top industry experts who helped us refine our business strategy and develop a solid plan for growth. The resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities provided by the program are truly invaluable.”

“The Acceleration+ program has been instrumental in our journey towards internationalization, accelerating our entry into the North American market, both in Canada and the United States. We sometimes feel lost when starting to work in a new country. This program has provided us with invaluable guidance and precise tools for every aspect of our work.”

– María Paz Navarro, CEO, AtacamaScope

“Acceleration+ really helped us the with the nuances of building a startup. With the help of amazing mentors and events, the program is accelerating our understanding of how to scale the business, preparing us for the process and putting us in a much stronger position than we were in before.”

The companies scaling into Canada & U.S. markets in Cohort 3 are:

This marks the beginning of an exciting journey. We are committed to providing the highest level of support to Acceleration+ clients, and we look forward to working closely with them over the coming months. We are confident that with our guidance, international startups in Cohort 3 will thrive and make a significant impact in Canadian & U.S. markets.

We would like to thank our partners, LatAm Startups, TechPlace, and Innovation Factory, for their continued support and collaboration. Together, we are helping to build a vibrant and dynamic startup ecosystem in southern Ontario.

To learn more about Acceleration+ and our cohort members, please visit our website. We look forward to sharing more updates on our progress in the near future.

The Acceleration+ program is available to startups currently enrolled in one of the following LatAm Startups programs: Phase III: Acceleration (Startup Visa), New Entrepreneur Accelerator (NEA), Corporate program. For additional details and eligibility criteria, visit https://www.accelerationplus.ca.

Perla Lopez
Program Director
Acceleration+
perla.lopez@haltech.ca  

Haltech is a non-profit corporation supported by Ontario’s Ministry of Research, Innovation & Science, Ministry of Economic Development & Growth, and valued Corporate Sponsors. We empower innovative companies to realize their full potential through education, advisory services, and strategic connections. We support companies in creating jobs, generating sales, creating new markets and securing investment for their growth.

Innovation Factory is a business accelerator, dedicated to helping Ontario-based businesses launch, scale, and succeed. We provide start-ups, and scaling companies with advisory services, training, mentorship, and strategic connections to help bring disruptive technologies to market, leverage intellectual property, increase revenues, attract investment and create jobs. Innovators can also access sector-specific resources including exclusive smart transportation test environments and data; and a formal life science and health innovation ecosystem.

Led by Burlington Economic Development, TechPlace exists to help technology, talent and ideation come together under one roof. But we do more than provide a base camp for tech companies to get work done. Anchored by our two co-location partners, Haltech and Angel One Investor Network, TechPlace provides tech companies (both new and growing) with access to space, resources, programming and mentorship through a growing partnership network and by creating an environment that’s focused on generating opportunities for networking and growth.

LatAm Startups is a non-profit accelerator in Toronto that works exclusively with international startups. A designated sponsor for Canada’s Startup Visa program, LatAm Startups is a pioneer in bringing the world’s top startups to Canada and helping them scale globally from Toronto.

For 13 years, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario, has worked to advance and diversify the southern Ontario economy through funding opportunities and business services that support innovation, growth and job creation in Canada’s most populous region. The Agency has delivered impressive results, which can be seen in southern Ontario businesses that are creating innovative technologies, improving productivity, growing revenues, creating jobs, and in the economic advancement of communities across the region. Learn more about the impacts the Agency is having in southern Ontario by exploring our pivotal projects, our Southern Ontario Spotlight, and FedDev Ontario’s Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Haltech, Innovation Factory, TechPlace welcome 10 international companies into Cohort 3 of Government of Canada-funded Acceleration+ Program

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Blog

In Conversation with Gaurav Chauhan from KonarkPro

October 12, 2023

Burlington Economic Development Receives 2023 Excellence in Economic Development Silver Award from the International Economic Development Council

September 26, 2023

Haltech, Innovation Factory, TechPlace welcome 10 international companies into Cohort 3 of Government of Canada-funded Acceleration+ Program

September 25, 2023

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