Get to know NextCorps incubation client, circlestar, a platform using natural language AI to help communities and associations strengthen member engagement through purpose-driven connections.
Based on an interview with Valerie Carey, founder of circlestar
It’s easy to join a professional group, but staying meaningfully involved is often much harder. Between busy schedules and competing demands, people tend to network only when they need something: a new job, a referral, or advice in a moment of crisis. This transactional approach can leave individuals feeling disconnected and communities largely underutilized.
circlestar was created to change that dynamic. Its lightweight, mostly email-based platform is designed to spark real conversations around a shared purpose, rather than surface-level exchanges. Using natural language AI, circlestar surfaces connections that align with both individual and organizational goals, encouraging members to engage with their communities regularly, not just when they’re in a pinch.
“Networking shouldn’t be something we only turn to when we have an urgent need,” says Carey. “It works best when it’s part of an ongoing conversation. Something that builds trust, strengthens community, and opens doors to unexpected ideas.”
From pandemic isolation to purposeful innovation
The idea for circlestar emerged from Carey’s own experience navigating connection in a demanding world. As a working mother, she found it difficult to maintain ties with professional communities beyond her immediate work and home life. But during the COVID-19 pandemic, she discovered unexpected value in chance online conversations.
“By connecting my team for informal one-on-one meetings, I saw engagement and collaboration improve,” Carey shared. “Additional serendipitous meetings with colleagues from other groups directly boosted my own career development as well.”
That insight became the spark for circlestar. With over 12 years of experience as a data scientist and analyst, Carey set out to build a tool that blends human intention with the unexpected possibilities of AI, helping people form connections that are both purposeful and spontaneous.
Support that’s fueling early momentum
Launching a startup often means navigating ambiguity with limited time, funding, and bandwidth. For circlestar, having access to expert guidance and a collaborative community through the NextCorps incubation program has provided steady encouragement through the ups and downs of early-stage growth.
“At this stage, every decision carries weight, and it’s easy to feel isolated,” says Carey. “NextCorps offers access to seasoned Entrepreneurs-in-Residence (EIRs) who’ve been in our shoes, as well as peers and mentors who are generous with their insight. The space is beautiful, but even more important is the environment. It’s welcoming, encouraging, and energizing.”
With that support system in place, the circlestar team is now preparing for a major milestone: the pilot launch of its MVP (Minimum Viable Product). Built with flexibility in mind, the platform will test a range of connection strategies, from matching people with complementary skills to aligning them by shared intentions. On the backend, the team is also developing tools to help associations better understand their members, simplify communication, and deliver more meaningful engagement experiences.
Stay in the loop
Circlestar is gearing up for its first wave of users, and you can be among the first to experience it. Join the waiting list at circlestar.ai, and connect with Valerie Carey on LinkedIn to follow the journey and ask questions.