Female Entrepreneur of the Week 2nd July 2012
This story is about…
Female Entrepreneur: Anita Mongia
Location: Norway & USA
Company: Engineerius
Industry: Educational board games
She started her business because: “When I got the great possibility to launch the English version of a Norwegian product, I couldn’t say no.”
What motivated you to start your business?
I originally started to study engineering, as I was told that with a degree like that I would be able to do anything. This is very true. When I didn’t get admitted into the school of architecture in Denmark, I decided to study innovation and business. Even since, I have been heading in the direction of becoming an entrepreneur. I started a masters within entrepreneurship and engineering and started a business with a couple of other students. When I got the great possibility to launch the English version of a Norwegian product, I couldn’t say no. So I moved to Boston, and I am still here. Currently the motivation is based on both personal, professional and academic goals, which drive me to work 14 hours every day of the week. And I love it!
Tell us about your business…
The business is based on a quiz board game that offer questions and answers within science, engineering and technology. The game is both educational and entertaining for people with an academic and professional background in science and engineering. All the questions and answers have been submitted by students and people interested in the field. They are also verified by well known professors at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. I am working to launch the English edition of the game and well as putting together a championship between the major engineering and science universities in Boston. I never thought I would work with developing board games, but my love and passion for design and product development make this a very interesting business to be in. And I learn something new every day!
What is a day in the life of you like?
Since I am the only person in the company at the moment, I am doing everything. Marketing, sales, product and business development, accounting and everything in between. Lately I have spent a lot of time setting up the actual company and I am also just finishing translating all the questions from Norwegian to English. Yes. All 1800 questions. I also spend a lot of time doing marketing and promoting the game itself.
What have been your biggest challenges so far with running your business?
Time is always a challenge. As I was in the middle of a master degree in Norway, the decision to leave Norway to start my own company in the US was a bit hard. I would have to put off graduation and it would end up costing more money. But I have never regretted making the decision and I still don’t.
How did you overcome these challenges?
My family, friends and personal goals all helped me stay focus and make the right decisions. A lot of people was not at all surprised when I moved to Boston, alone, to start a company. Having them believe in me is very important.
What have you found to be the most effective way to get new clients?
Talk to them! It might be time consuming some times, but it sure is the most effective way to close a sale.
What advice would you give to other business owners?
In the words of Nike – Just do it! Don’t look back and never doubt yourself. If you go all in, great things can happen.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
I keep my eye on the ball. Keeping focused on why I am doing this in the first place (academic, professional and personal reasons) is a great motivational factor. Also, talking to other entrepreneurs is always motivating.
What’s your favourite quote?
I came, I saw, I conquered. Just was i intend to do.
Who inspires you?
Other entrepreneurs, especially other fellow students of me. Many of them have made it and are doing well. I firmly believe I can do it to.
Do you have a business philosophy?
If you don’t like it, don’t do it. There will of course always be things we have to do even though we are not all the time equally excited about it, but the overall enjoyment and desire to do what you are doing is very important. Even when I am sitting here translating 1800 questions AND answers, I am enjoying myself as I see myself developing something that is just mine. It is a wonderful feeling!
Get in touch…
Website: www.engineerius.com/
Twitter Name: @engineeriusgame
Facebook Fanpage: www.facebook.com/pages/Engineerius
