<p><span class="p-body">NYU SPS alumni Joshua Yunatanov ‘21 was inspired to start his business during a ski adventure in Vermont. “The struggle to find suitable charging stations and the lack of quality amenities at existing stops made us realize the need for a more enjoyable and convenient travel experience,” said Yunatnov.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">With the use of personal and commercial electric vehicles (EVs) expected to grow in the coming years, he created his business—Starship Rest Stops—to serve the EV community. In addition, he decided to join the<a href="/content/sps-nyu/experience/how-youll-learn/the-innovation-hub/ihub-incubator.html" target="_blank"> Hospitality Innovation (HI Hub) Incubator Program</a> at the<a href="/content/sps-nyu/about/academic-divisions-and-departments/jonathan-m-tisch-center-of-hospitality.html" target="_blank"> NYU School of Professional Studies Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality</a> to help build his company.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Starship’s mission is to reimagine and transform the road trip and rest-stop experiences while championing the EV revolution. This includes catering to the needs of commercial EV fleets and being a catalyst for a brighter, greener, and more sustainable future.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">According to Yunatanov, “Starship Rest Stop represents the future of travel, revolutionizing how people embark on journeys with their EVs. We look to provide a haven of comfort for both car travelers and truck drivers in an industry that has seen little innovation in decades.”</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">After creating his business, Yunatanov looked to his alma mater for assistance in further establishing his company and making it viable.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">“Our decision to join the HI Hub Incubator Program stemmed from a desire to expand our knowledge of building and establishing a business,” said Yunatanov. “We saw this as an opportunity to engage with experienced mentors, gain insights into the market, and explore potential funding opportunities.”</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">During the program, he collaborated with mentors on various aspects of his business. “The mentor-mentee relationship has been incredibly valuable,” said Yunatanov. Learning from their experiences, understanding what has worked for them, and applying those lessons to our business endeavors has been a highly beneficial experience,” he added.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">For Yunatanov, the most rewarding aspect of creating Starship Rest Stop has been the ability to express his team’s creativity within the business world. “Starting and leading a company has been a lifelong aspiration, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to bring our creative vision to life,” added Yunatanov.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">As others look to begin their startups, he recommends that entrepreneurs not start a company solely for monetary gain.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">“Instead, embark on a venture that you are passionate about and one that has a positive impact on the world,” he said. “When you pursue your passion, financial success often follows naturally.”</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">He envisions establishing Starship Rest Stops in numerous locations worldwide, starting in the US and expanding to other cities and countries. He believes that with the current outdated infrastructure that requires substantial improvement, he will significantly look to his business to contribute to any infrastructure advancement worldwide.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Discover how NYU SPS can help your start-up. Learn more about the<a href="/content/sps-nyu/experience/how-youll-learn/the-innovation-hub/ihub-incubator.html" target="_blank"> NYU SPS Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality HI Hub Incubator Program</a> and its mission to provide NYU-affiliated start-up businesses and young entrepreneurs with core business services.</span></p>