Who we are
ConnectEKO is a startup company that's all about connecting with people, helping our environment and using creative technology to bring it all together.
What we do
We are developing fun, consumer-facing systems for the retail industry. We specialize in electronics, wireless systems, digital media; and are working hard to bring our green ideas to market...literally.
Our Team
Steve Wrobel
I'm Steve Wrobel, Co-Founder of ConnectEKO
aka: Noble Wrobel and Wrobotech
I have 20+ years of diverse experience in electromechanical systems design, installation, service, project management and sales/marketing.
About Me:
I figure out how to make things work and have fun doing it!
First Job:
When I was 4 years old I painted rocks I found in the driveway and sold them
to neighbors : ) They called me a little man.
Check out my LinkedIn profile for more recent work history.
Interests:
Building and restoring stuff (cars, homes, etc.) technology, travel, anything outdoors, cooking, creating, writing and rewriting jingles.
Some Favorite Quotes:
"A smile is a curve which can set a lot of things straight.”
~ Victor Borge
“Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life.”
~ ConfuciusContact Info:
Ashley Lybolt
I’m Ashley Lybolt, Co-founder of ConnectEKO.
I have 15 + years of experience in the electronics industry; with a super strong background in office admin and project coordination.
Check out my LinkedIn profile for the full scoop.
About Me:
I’m easy-going; known for my upbeat personality and getting things done.
I learn new things quickly and have a knack for creativity.
Interests:
Art & technology in all forms, environmental issues, finding fun new ways to reuse, repurpose things, exploring new places, the outdoors, antiques and photography.
Fun Facts:
- Love frogs and have collected frog stuff since I was a kid.
- Can recite the lyrics to almost every song in every genre.
- Worked with my fiancé Steve (aka Wrobotech) for nearly half of my life!
Some Favorite Quotes:
"Wherever you go, no matter the weather - always bring your own sunshine."
~ Anthony J. D'Angelo
Contact Info:
About Us
We have worked together for over 15 years and are engaged to be married. In 2011 we decided on a career change; both wanting to try something new, fun and exciting that would make a positive impact on people and the planet.
Please check out our projects, photo gallery and blog for more details.
Our Story
Our startup story began while living in Dunedin, Florida. We were always forgetting our reusable bags in the car at the supermarket and often talked about inventing our own electronic reminder system to fix this annoying problem.
We put our imagination and technical background to work and our idea quickly became a reality. We came up with the fun wireless reminder system aka RBYB FROGS, built a humble prototype and demonstrated our idea at two large events. It was a hit – everybody wanted one! We confirmed a lot of people have the same bag forgetfulness problem we do. That sealed the deal.
Where we are now
We relocated to Ohio to join the Dayton RFID Convergence Center. Still focused on our bag reminder project; we performed extensive research on the paper, plastic and reusable bag debate.
We quickly concluded that there is a HUGE disconnect between shoppers and in-store recycling programs.
- Minimal amounts of plastic bags are returned to the store for recycling.
- Many people are unaware of plastic bag recycling programs.
A-ha! That’s how our idea for the Eco-Collect & Connect project came about...and here we are now. :)
We also recently changed the name of our reminder system to RBit FROGS - hop over and check'em out!
Why we're doing it
Because we care - and it just makes sense. Overall eco-awareness in the retail industry needs a serious boost.
Shoppers tend to forget their reusable bags a lot, are generally confused about eco-friendly products and unaware of in-store plastic bag and film/wrap recycling programs.
To make a difference, going green in-store needs a friendly face and name to connect with.
How?
Using creative wireless and digital technology to engage, interact, encourage, reward!
These are the simple concepts that drive us, our ideas and projects.
There’s good things in-store: We can help deliver a positive message, motivate change and be the gateway to green!
Our Vision
- Promote environmental stewardship.
- Enhance in-store plastic bag, film/wrap recycling programs.
- Encourage eco-friendly products, brands and choices.
- Close the loop and get more involved.
Our Mission
- Deliver the pipeline to help retailers' triple bottom line: people, planet, profit.
- Provide a cost effective, easy-to-use solution that transforms the industry for recycled PE films.
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Create a fun shopper experience that keeps people connected and feeling good about being eco-friendly.
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Give back to the community, causes and organizations that help people and protect our environment.
People
Planet
Profit
Give Back
Our Mascot
Kaeru
I'm Kaeru, ConnectEKO's big bold brand promise to be green!
Experienced icon for eco-awareness and saving the world’s rainforests.
About Me:
Bright, friendly, unique, quirky.
The definition of my name screams “Recycling” – Check it out!
- They turn greener over time. Inspiring! That’s something we can all strive for.
- Scientists often use them as a biological indicator of an eco-systems health.
- They are extremely sensitive to environmental change.
Our Affilliations
Recognized as one of the top 50 startups in the world!
2012 - 2014
Creative Technology Building
Tenant
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Resident Member
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Affiliate Member
Affiliate Member
Portfolio Company
Market Study
Project
Innovation Center Project Sponsor
2013 Environmental Calendar Sponsor