Entrepreneurs need more than access to capital to build successful businesses, according to businessman and former JSE executive Geoff Rothschild.

Speaking at the launch of RINKU at Workshop 17 in Sandton, Rothschild said entrepreneurs need courage, supportive people and an understanding of the environment around them. “You’ve got to trust them to be able to move to another level, and the people around you being successful is part of your success,” he said.

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Strong networks and ethics

Rothschild also stressed the importance of ethics and having the right people in positions of responsibility. He said entrepreneurs should surround themselves with people they can trust and who are willing to challenge them. “If you go to the wrong people around you, do you trust them?” he asked.

AI platform connects business owners

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Rothschild said a connected entrepreneurial ecosystem should allow people to share experiences and make support more accessible beyond privileged communities. “People need one another, and it is definitely a need to be able to share experiences, and to grow one another,” he said.

The discussion formed part of the launch of RINKU, an AI-powered platform designed to connect entrepreneurs with relevant support, including funding, mentorship and other business services. Rothschild said entrepreneurs should also take responsibility for the role they can play in helping others. “Every one of you has an obligation, if you want to, to do better for people closest to you, and to give them the time of day,” he said.

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