Starting a business takes more than just a great idea—it requires dedication, strategic thinking, and the willingness to embrace challenges. For Woo Kim, a CSUF alumnus and entrepreneur, the path to launching his successful venture, LynkMe Cards, was paved with valuable lessons learned through the CSUF Startup Incubator, real-world experience, and a passion for building meaningful connections.
Discovering the Entrepreneurial Spirit
Woo Kim’s entrepreneurial journey began while he was still a student at Cal State Fullerton studying Electrical Engineering. Although his background was technical, Woo’s interest in business began to grow as he explored ways to bridge the gap between technology and consumer needs. This curiosity led him to the CSUF Startup Incubator, a program designed to support student entrepreneurs in developing and launching their businesses.
Reflecting on his time at the Incubator, Woo emphasized how instrumental it was in shaping his entrepreneurial mindset. “The CSUF Startup Incubator was a game-changer for me,” Woo recalled. It provided access to mentors who challenged him to think critically about his ideas, refine his business model, and understand the value of customer discovery.
The Incubator’s hands-on approach allowed Woo to immerse himself in the fundamentals of business development. Weekly meetings with mentors and startup coaches gave him the guidance needed to translate his innovative ideas into actionable steps.
The Birth of LynkMe Cards
During his time at the Incubator, Woo identified a common challenge in professional networking: the inefficiency of traditional business cards. Recognizing the need for a smarter, digital alternative, Woo developed LynkMe Cards—a modern solution that allows users to instantly share their professional profile and contact details with a simple tap.
Woo’s critical insight was that networking is fundamental in business. But he noticed that traditional business cards often get lost or forgotten and he wanted to create something that makes connecting easier, faster, and more effective.
LynkMe Cards leverage NFC (Near Field Communication) technology, enabling users to share customized digital profiles without needing a physical card exchange. This innovative solution allows professionals to make lasting connections with just a tap of their phone.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
Launching LynkMe Cards wasn’t without its challenges. Woo described how customer discovery played a crucial role in refining his product.
When Woo first started developing LynkMe Cards, he had one idea about what his customers wanted. But after talking to real people—entrepreneurs, students, and professionals—Woo learned that the biggest pain point was ensuring that the contact information they shared would stay accessible and organized.
Through this feedback, Woo pivoted his design and improved LynkMe Cards to ensure a seamless experience. By staying adaptable and committed to understanding his customers, Woo was able to create a product that solves real-world networking frustrations.
The Impact of CSUF on Woo’s Success
Woo credits much of his growth to the support he received from CSUF Entrepreneurship. From participating in competitions like Titan Fast Pitch to building connections through the CSUF Startup Incubator, Woo found that these experiences strengthened his ability to innovate and thrive as an entrepreneur.
CSUF provided Woo with an environment that encouraged experimentation and learning The mentorship he received and the relationships he built have had a lasting impact on his journey as an entrepreneur.
His journey also underscores the importance of mentorship. Throughout his time at CSUF, Woo was guided by experienced mentors who helped him refine his business strategy and strengthen his pitch. This guidance was crucial in overcoming obstacles and making smart decisions that helped LynkMe Cards grow.
Advice for Future Entrepreneurs
For students and aspiring entrepreneurs, Woo offers clear advice:
- Embrace Failure: Your first idea won’t always be your best idea. Every setback is an opportunity to learn and improve.
- Listen to Your Customers: Understanding your audience’s needs is essential for building a product or service that solves real problems.
- Build a Support System: Surrounding yourself with mentors, peers, and resources like the CSUF Startup Incubator can provide critical guidance and encouragement when challenges arise.
Looking Ahead
As LynkMe Cards continues to grow, Woo is dedicated to expanding his product’s reach and enhancing its features. His success serves as an inspiring example of how combining technical expertise with entrepreneurial drive can lead to meaningful innovation.
For those inspired by Woo Kim’s story and interested in starting their own entrepreneurial journey, CSUF Entrepreneurship offers a wealth of resources, mentorship, and opportunities to turn bold ideas into successful businesses.
To learn more about CSUF Entrepreneurship or to get involved, visit CSUF Entrepreneurship or email csufentrepreneurship@fullerton.edu.