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Small Business Tuesday: Accelerit

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January 29, 2025

TLDR: Nosipho Radebe talks to Mandela Ngcobo, Founder at AcceleritSee.

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In this episode of Power 98.7’s Small Business Tuesday, Nosipho Radebe interviews Mandela Ngcobo, founder of Accelerit, a leading provider of internet connectivity services in South Africa. Established in 2013, Accelerit has thrived in addressing connectivity needs, particularly in underserved communities. Here’s a summary of the key points discussed in the episode.

The Genesis of Accelerit

Mandla Ngcobo shared insights on how Accelerit was founded out of necessity. Recognizing the lack of connectivity in multi-planning student units, he transformed these areas into hotspots. This innovative approach led to the establishment of a thriving company that now services users nationwide, highlighting the importance of identifying unmet needs as a key entrepreneurial strategy.

Motivation Behind Entrepreneurship

Mandla described his drive to become an entrepreneur as a quest for fulfillment and independence. Influenced by his self-employed parents, he valued the ability to create his path rather than simply working for a paycheck. This mentality fueled his journey toward entrepreneurship and drove him to harness his skills and passions effectively.

Challenges in the Early Days

Launching Accelerit was not without hurdles. Mandla spoke candidly about the initial challenges he faced:

  • Transitioning from Employment: Balancing a day job while establishing a startup proved to be demanding. Managing time effectively between commitments was crucial.
  • Financial Constraints: The early years required heavy reliance on personal savings and the challenging task of gaining credibility in the industry to secure financial backing.
  • Juggling Salaries vs. Startups: The comfort of a monthly salary often drew individuals back from pursuing entrepreneurial ventures. Maintaining focus and commitment during this transitional phase was essential for success.

The Importance of Networking

Mandla emphasized the significance of building relationships early on in one’s career. Networking played a critical role in establishing Accelerit. Key takeaways include:

  • Maintaining Connections: Relationships built while employed can lead to potential partnerships and support in future ventures.
  • Professional Reputation: Consistency in work ethic fosters a positive reputation, enhancing future opportunities.
  • Example of Accenture: Leveraging his former association with Accenture, they eventually became one of Accelerit’s clients, demonstrating how vital networking can be in business development.

Strategic Partnerships for Growth

The episode highlighted the strategic partnerships that Accelerit formed with major industry players such as Liquid Telecom, Seacom, and Metrofiber. These relationships have been essential for:

  • Expanding Market Reach: Collaborating with established firms enabled Accelerit to enhance its service offerings and penetrate underserved markets.
  • Innovative Solutions: Sharing resources and knowledge with partners allowed for the development of tailored connectivity solutions that meet the unique needs of the communities served.

Current Industry Trends in Connectivity and AI

Both industry experts discussed emerging trends:

  • Shifting Focus to Rural Areas: Significant efforts are being made to connect underserved rural communities, reflecting a growing emphasis on inclusivity in internet access.
  • AI’s Role in Connectivity: The integration of AI technologies offers efficiency improvements in service delivery. Automating tasks allows for enhanced customer service and reduced operational costs.
  • Sustainable Growth: While profitability is essential, Mandla stressed the importance of sustainability through viable business models that support continuous community engagement.

The Future of AI in Business

Mandla anticipates that AI will play a pivotal role across various industries. As businesses explore automation, AI can streamline operations, particularly in customer service. Key points include:

  • Operational Efficiency: Automating repetitive tasks increases productivity and reduces the need for a one-to-one employee-to-customer ratio.
  • Advanced AI Models: The emergence of advanced AI technologies, such as deep learning and predictive analytics, will transform how companies interact with users and optimize services.
  • Industry-wide Implications: All sectors, including connectivity, must adapt to the AI evolution, positioning themselves for competitive advantage in a rapidly changing landscape.

Conclusion

The discussion with Mandla Ngcobo highlights critical insights for emerging entrepreneurs, focusing on identifying needs, the power of networking, and the importance of partnerships. With ongoing advancements in AI and shifts towards rural connectivity, the future looks promising for companies like Accelerit that prioritize sustainable growth and community engagement. Entrepreneurs should take note of these industry trends to innovate and thrive in a competitive space.

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