In this interview, we delve into the story of b-line—a company that began in 2016 with a vision of greener, more efficient commuting and has since transformed into a leader in proptech, using AI to shape the future of building operations. The conversation explores the journey from b-line’s early days of mobility data collection to its current role at the forefront of AI-powered solutions for smart building management. We’ll hear from b-line’s CEO, Aaron Short, about the challenges and rewards of steering a company through such a significant pivot, the balance of AI and human elements in tech, and their vision for making Halifax a global hub for technology and innovation. Join us as they share insights on navigating change, the impact of their technology, and what’s next for b-line.

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1. Tell us about b-line. When did you first open, and how have things changed since then?

b-line started in 2016 with a very different focus. Back then, our goal was to make commuting easier, greener, and more efficient by helping organizations gather mobility data for environmental certifications. We developed a platform that enabled building owners to generate real-time insights about how people traveled to and from their properties. It was an exciting space to be in, especially with the growing interest in green buildings and sustainability. But, like any business, change is inevitable—and so is the need to adapt.

When the pandemic hit, the world around us changed. We saw buildings empty out, workforces shift to remote operations, and, more importantly, a new focus on health and safety within physical spaces. That’s when we realized we had to pivot. Today, b-line is a proptech company using AI to reimagine how people interact with the spaces they live and work in. We’ve shifted from tracking commutes to managing every aspect of building operations, from access control to HVAC management to occupancy monitoring. Our technology now helps property managers make buildings smarter, safer, and more efficient. We’re integrating cutting-edge AI to optimize not only how buildings operate but also how they enhance the experience of everyone inside them.

This pivot was bold but necessary, and it’s been incredibly rewarding. We’re no longer just a tech company; we’re at the forefront of the AI revolution in the property technology space. And we’re still evolving every day.

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2. What inspires and motivates you? Can you share a recent rewarding memory/experience from your business?

I’m driven by impact. When I think about what b-line has become, it’s not just about the technology—it’s about how our solutions improve lives. Buildings have always been static entities, but now, they’re becoming dynamic environments that respond to the needs of the people inside them. And b-line is making that possible.

One of the most rewarding experiences for me recently was the launch of our AI Assistant for Hospitality. It’s a product that truly embodies our mission to bridge technology and human experience. We created an AI that not only enhances operational efficiency but also makes people’s interactions with a building seamless and intuitive. Watching our clients use it and hearing how it has transformed their operations has been a proud moment. One client told us that our AI saved them hours of manual work each day while making their guests feel more welcome and cared for. That’s the kind of impact that keeps me motivated—it’s the intersection of efficiency and empathy that excites me.

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3. What challenges have you faced (as a business or business leader), and how did you overcome those challenges?

The journey from mobility data to AI-powered proptech wasn’t without challenges. One of the most significant hurdles was deciding to pivot the entire business. When we realized the world was changing due to the pandemic, we had to ask ourselves some tough questions. Was this the right time to make such a drastic shift? Could we take what we’d built and apply it in a completely new way? It was a challenge both strategically and emotionally, as we had invested so much in the mobility space.

The key to overcoming it was realizing that innovation requires constant evolution. We leaned on our strengths—our ability to collect and analyze data—and applied that to the pressing needs of building management. The second challenge was ensuring our team could grow alongside this shift. We invested heavily in expanding our AI capabilities, brought in experts, and reskilled our existing team to ensure everyone was aligned with this new vision.

Ultimately, our willingness to embrace change and think ahead allowed us to overcome these challenges. It wasn’t easy, but leading a company through such a transition is one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had as a business leader.

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4. What do you see as the place for AI in business? Where do we need to maintain the human element? Can the two work in harmony?

AI is a game-changer, and we’re only scratching the surface of what it can do for businesses. At b-line, we see AI as the key to unlocking efficiency, reducing operational burdens, and providing real-time insights that humans alone could never achieve. For example, our AI-driven HVAC systems can analyze environmental data, predict occupancy trends, and adjust building conditions to save energy without sacrificing comfort. It’s a powerful tool that enables businesses to operate smarter and more sustainably.

But the human element will always be essential. AI can handle the numbers, the data, the processes—but people bring the creativity, empathy, and understanding that technology simply can’t replicate. I believe that AI and the human element aren’t in competition; they complement each other. AI allows us to automate mundane and data-intensive tasks, freeing up human beings to focus on innovation, strategy, and the emotional intelligence required to build meaningful relationships with customers and teams. In our business, we use AI to enhance the user experience, not replace it. It’s about finding that perfect harmony where technology enables people to do their best work.

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5. What needs to happen for Halifax, where the b-line HQ is located, to be seen as a leader in technology and innovation?

Halifax is brimming with potential. We have a growing tech community, world-class universities, and a deep talent pool. But for Halifax to truly be recognized as a leader in technology and innovation, we need to create an environment where entrepreneurship thrives. This means more investment in AI research, more incubators for tech startups, and stronger partnerships between academia, government, and the private sector.

We also need to tell Halifax’s story better. We’re doing incredible things here, but we need to shine a brighter spotlight on our successes. When you look at cities like Austin or Raleigh, it’s not just about what they’re doing; it’s about how they’re promoting their tech ecosystems. Halifax has all the right ingredients—we just need to amplify the message and create more opportunities for collaboration. We’re already on the path, but with continued focus and investment, I believe Halifax can become a global leader in proptech and AI-driven solutions.

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6. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers? What’s on the horizon for you?

At b-line, we’re constantly pushing the envelope. We’re excited about the future, especially as we continue to refine our AI-powered solutions. What’s next for us is taking what we’ve built and scaling it even further—across more industries, more buildings, and more countries. Our AI isn’t just for access control or HVAC; it’s about creating smarter, more connected environments where technology truly serves people.

We’re also exploring how AI can be used to enhance health and wellness in buildings, making sure that the spaces people inhabit are not only efficient but also nurturing. The world of proptech is just beginning, and b-line is ready to lead the charge. We’ve built something special, and I’m excited to see where we can take it next.

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