The Yachting Ventures community is home to a new generation of ambitious startup founders leading the way in leisure marine. Founders Under 33 highlights young entrepreneurs, diving into their journeys and predictions for the future. This week, we feature Cindy Allis, founder of Floatist.

What was the “aha” moment that led you to start your company?

My ‘aha’ moment came from firsthand experience as a skipper in the industry. As a software engineer, I naturally analyse processes through a technical lens, always spotting opportunities for improvement. Time and time again, I watched fleet operators struggle with outdated methods—relying on pen and paper, walkie-talkies, and endless phone calls to manage their operations. It became clear to me that there was a significant gap that technology could fill, offering a smarter, more efficient way to streamline their workflows. That realisation was what led me to start my business.

What has been your biggest challenge as a young founder in this industry?

For me, the biggest challenge as a young founder in this industry was mastering the art of prioritisation. There are a thousand ways to improve the product, but the key is identifying which initiatives will drive the most meaningful impact for current and future customers. It’s not just about building features—it’s about making strategic decisions that balance immediate needs with long-term vision.

 Limited resources, customer demands, and market shifts add another layer of complexity, making it crucial to stay focused on what truly moves the needle. Learning to say “not now” to good ideas in favour of great ones has been one of the most valuable lessons on this journey.

Where would you be without your business?

Without my business, I would still be solving complex problems—just in a different capacity. Given my background as a software engineer, I’ve always been drawn to improving processes and finding ways to make things more efficient. If I hadn’t started my own company, I’d likely be working in product development, SaaS, or operations, helping another company scale and refine their offering.

Any advice for young aspiring entrepreneurs?

My biggest advice? Just go for it. There will never be a perfect moment or the perfect opportunity, you have to create the right opportunity yourself. If you wait for ideal conditions, you’ll never start.

Also, don’t be afraid to share your ideas out of fear that someone might steal them. An idea, on its own, is worth nothing. What truly matters is execution: the time, effort, and resilience you put into turning that idea into reality. The difference between a great idea and a great business is the person willing to put in the work to make it happen.

What are you most looking forward to in 2025?

We have some truly exciting features launching in 2025, and I can’t wait to see the impact they’ll have. I’m especially excited to watch how they help our existing clients streamline their operations even further while making our solution even more compelling for new customers. 2025 is all about growth, innovation, and delivering even more value. It’s going to be a big year!

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