Barclays Black Founder Accelerator 2021 member
Deliciae Limited
Connecting high net-worth individuals with digital, physical and experiential based assets (NFTs).
Why did you join the Barclays Black Founder Accelerator?
To learn from leading experts how to grow and scale my company Deliciae. It's one thing having a great concept / MVP but equally as important is having the firm foundations to propel forward with my endeavours.
Why did you want to start your business?
I saw an opportunity to be the first to capitalise on the exploding demand for Non Fungible Tokens (NFTs) specifically physical, digital and experiential NFTs to the global high net worth community.
To enhance the buying experience of NFTs - Deliciae merges virtual reality exhibitions with a luxury digital marketplace to seamlessly buy and sell high-end assets.
What would be your desired outcome from this programme?
Learn key skills that enable me to run, a leading luxury company that will still be relevant in 50 years time.
Which entrepreneur inspires you the most and why?
Shawn "JAY-Z" Carter. His business acumen is nothing short of incredible. One of the most fascinating things about him, the majority of his business moves are medium / long term manoeuvre which yield great returns.
What has been your biggest win in your entrepreneurial journey?
Being in a position where I'm able to work on my entrepreneurial endeavours full-time with the knowledge I can look after my family.
What has been your biggest challenge?
Raising capital for the project. Getting people to part with their hard earned money is very hard. At times it felt disheartening but I kept trying my hardest and giving my all till I was successful.
Where did you go for business advice and how did it help you?
I'm very fortunate to have friends who run their own successful businesses. Franklin Boateng (co-founder of Green Machine Shoreditch) was my first point of contact as he initially told me about NFTs, I view him as a very dear friend and mentor.
Nigel and Ayo from Jordan James Partners were very helpful when it came to turning my concept into a business proposal and sponsorship opportunity. I then had another friend Taran from The Conscious Sales assist in refining my pitch and deck.
What drives you to make your business a success?
The ability to forge legacy in a growing and exciting new market. I want to show whilst the majority may be doing one thing, that's not the only route to success.
What advice would you give other founders thinking about starting their own business?
Believe, you owe it to yourself to at least try! The fear of failure should not prevent you from starting a business. Speak to business owners within your network and don't be afraid to ask for help.