In Founder Focus we introduce entrepreneurs and change-makers working on innovative startups, social enterprises and SME’s around Aotearoa New Zealand.
At a glance
Founder: Corinne Davies
Business: Griefity
Founded: 2023
HQ: Auckland
Can you tell us a bit about your business?
Griefity is a new organisation with a very specific mission: to make a difference for those experiencing grief and loss.
Grief often shows up due to major life changes or events such as bereavement, the ill health or ageing of a loved one, divorce or separation, infertility, or loss during pregnancy.
Globally, billions of people suffer from grief due to these events every day, and frequently need to cope with very little guidance or support, leading to more prolonged and painful experiences.
This can create significant impacts on their mental health, relationships, work performance, finances, and physical health.
We canβt take grief away, but we can create connections through tech to help those experiencing grief where they need it most, help them with self care and taking the next step, and provide access to expert services.
At Griefity we create tech products and a wraparound community to help provide practical support when people need it the most.
What’s the backstory for your business idea?
I was widowed at 29 and struggled to find any support services at the time. I simply muddled through and took a very long and difficult road to piece my life back together.
Over the years I’ve heard similarly heartbreaking stories from so many people. Not just about the grief or loss they’ve experienced, but also about the lack of services and support available in the aftermath and the years that followed.
In fact, when starting Griefity, I got feedback from thousands of people all over the world, who have struggled to access the right grief support. We all have a very similar story to tell.
With over 20 years working in tech, I’m determined to create innovative products and services that make a difference for people going through their toughest times.
What programmes, learning or mentoring, or resources have been of assistance so far?
I’ve participated in Startmate and Founder Catalyst programmes.
I think some of the best resources I’d recommend would be:
- The Naval podcast
- Seeking out stories of successful local and global founders who prove that difficult things can be done!