Follow Wil McReynolds' transformation from a creative youth to a pioneering tech entrepreneur.
TL;DR
In this episode, we interview Wil McReynolds, founder of KP9 Interactive and the WebAR platform WorldCAST. Wil discusses his journey from creative arts to tech entrepreneurship, the impact of COVID-19 on his business model, and the importance of high-speed internet for rural entrepreneurs.
He emphasizes building a supportive community and adapting to challenges, offering practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Wil’s story showcases resilience, innovation, and the potential of rural entrepreneurship.
Introduction
In our latest podcast episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Wil McReynolds, a visionary rural entrepreneur and the founder of KP9 Interactive.
Wil shared his remarkable journey, from his early creative endeavors to his pioneering work in augmented reality (AR).
This blog post captures the highlights of our conversation, offering a glimpse into the mind of an entrepreneur who has successfully navigated the challenges of rural entrepreneurship.
From Creativity to Technology: A Lifelong Journey
Wil McReynolds’ entrepreneurial journey began with a deep-seated passion for creativity. Growing up, Wil was always drawn to artistic pursuits like drawing, music, and photography.
This creative foundation not only shaped his personal identity but also laid the groundwork for his ventures in technology and business.
“I think I'm just a creative. When I was growing up as a teenager, I always felt the need to create or capture. Whether it was video, photos, or music, these outlets helped me understand the world and myself better,” Wil shared.
Wil McReynolds presenting at Silicon Halton meetup in 2018. Silicon Halton is a tech community I co-founded in 2009. I sold my shares in 2024 to focus on the development and launch of AREA 81 a rural entrepreneurship accelerator program and venture.
The Birth of KP9 Interactive
The inception of kp9 Interactive stemmed from Wil’s lifelong fascination with technology and geomagnetic storms. He described himself as a “Tech head” from a young age, always eager to explore new gadgets and innovations.
This curiosity led him to the groundbreaking world of augmented reality (AR).
“In 2011, I experienced augmented reality for the first time and was blown away. I realized this technology had the potential to shape the future,” Wil recounted.
This epiphany drove him to establish KP9 Interactive, a company dedicated to democratizing AR technology and making it accessible to everyone.
WorldCAST: Democratizing AR
One of KP9 Interactive’s flagship projects, WorldCAST, epitomizes Wil’s vision of accessible technology.
WorldCAST is a WebAR platform that allows users to create AR experiences without any coding knowledge, directly through a web browser.
This innovative approach eliminates traditional barriers to entry, making AR creation possible for students, teachers, nonprofits, and anyone with a creative idea.
“Our goal with WorldCAST is to enable anyone, anywhere, to build and consume AR experiences. There are no barriers, no boundaries,” Wil explained.
The platform’s user-friendly interface and broad applicability have garnered attention and praise from various industries, including education and healthcare.
Adapting to Change: Embracing Work-from-Home
During COVID, Wil pivoted his company’s approach to work. KP9 Interactive embraced work-from-home instead of using office space in Owen Sound.
Wil now works out of his home office to be closer to his family, blending work with personal priorities.
He emphasized that high-speed internet is extremely important for rural entrepreneurs.
Building a Community of Innovators
One of the standout features of WorldCAST is its focus on community building. Wil emphasized the importance of creating a space where innovators can connect, collaborate, and support each other.
WorldCAST provides a professional environment with shared services, reducing costs and fostering a sense of belonging among its users.
Challenges and Opportunities in Rural Entrepreneurship
During our conversation, Wil highlighted the unique challenges and opportunities of rural entrepreneurship.
From limited access to financial support to the need for innovative thinking, rural entrepreneurs face a different set of obstacles compared to their urban counterparts.
However, Wil’s positive outlook and resourcefulness have allowed him to thrive. He stressed the importance of being prepared for hard work, long hours, and the willingness to navigate a less conventional path.
The Future of KP9 Interactive and Rural Entrepreneurship
Looking ahead, Wil is optimistic about the future of kp9 Interactive and rural entrepreneurship in general.
He envisions WorldCAST as a launching pad for new businesses, providing the resources and support needed for startups to succeed.
He also sees a growing trend of people moving from urban areas to rural regions, seeking the quality of life and opportunities that places like Grey County offer.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Wil’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is both practical and inspiring.
He encourages them to understand the realities of entrepreneurship: long hours, hard work, and the need for perseverance.
However, he also highlights the rewards of controlling one’s destiny and pursuing a path driven by passion and innovation.
Final Thoughts
Our interview with Wil McReynolds shed light on the resilient and innovative spirit of rural entrepreneurs.
His journey from creative pursuits to pioneering AR technology, and the development of KP9 Interactive and WorldCAST, serve as a testament to what can be achieved with determination and a willingness to adapt.
For those looking to embark on their own entrepreneurial journey, Wil’s story offers valuable lessons and a source of inspiration.
Stay tuned for more insightful conversations with entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their communities.
About the Rural Entrepreneur Podcast Series
The Rural Entrepreneur Podcast Series delves into the stories of rural entrepreneurs, exploring their struggles, triumphs, and the driving force behind their perseverance. The conversations are profound and insightful. If you're interested in being a sponsor or guest, feel free to contact us or book some time with Chris. Now on Spotify
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