Jonathan Schacher is the visionary founder and owner of Grupo Visión, a leading technology firm established in 2002 in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. With a rich background in finance and international business from Bentley University and Florida International University, Jonathan has propelled Grupo Visión to the forefront of technological innovation in Central America and the Caribbean. Under his leadership, the company has not only created over 3000 jobs but also played a pivotal role in transforming the region’s technological landscape. Jonathan’s commitment to philanthropy is evident through his support for various charities, embodying a blend of entrepreneurial spirit and community service. His dedication to leveraging technology for social good has made him a respected figure in the business and technology sectors, inspiring a new generation of innovators.
How did you get started in this business?
I began Grupo Visión in 2002 after recognizing a significant gap in how technology was utilized in Central America and the Caribbean. My vision was to create a company that could deliver robust, scalable, and innovative tech solutions that not only addressed local business needs but also propelled them towards rapid growth and efficiency.
How do you make money?
Grupo Visión earns revenue primarily through the development and implementation of information and communication technology solutions tailored for businesses and government institutions. We design, plan, and execute large-scale IT projects that improve our clients’ operational efficiencies and help them to adapt to digital transformations.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
It took about three years to become profitable. During that period, we focused intensely on building a solid product portfolio, establishing key customer relationships, and streamlining our operations to ensure maximum efficiency and client satisfaction.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work?
Certainly, there were moments of doubt, especially in the early phases when we were trying to establish credibility and a client base in a market that was, at the time, relatively conservative about adopting new technologies.
How did you get your first customer?
Our first customer came through a referral. It was a small business looking to modernize its operations. We provided a customized digital solution that significantly improved their business processes, and from there, word of mouth played a huge role in our gradual expansion.
What is one marketing strategy that works well to generate new business?
A key strategy has been leveraging case studies and success stories. Demonstrating real-world applications and benefits of our solutions has helped prospective clients visualize the potential impact on their own operations, thereby facilitating new business acquisition.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
Recently, I had to decide whether to expand our service offerings to include newer, but less tested technologies. It was a tough call between staying within our comfort zone or pushing the envelope for innovation. We chose the latter, believing that staying ahead of technology curves is crucial.
What do you think makes you successful?
Persistence, a willingness to innovate, and a deep commitment to our clients’ success have been the cornerstones of our success. These principles guide our operations and strategic decisions, ensuring that we continue to deliver value and maintain integrity in all our dealings.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
One of the most satisfying moments was when we completed a national-scale project that significantly enhanced public access to digital services in Honduras. Seeing the tangible impact of our work on everyday citizens was profoundly fulfilling.
What does the future hold for your business?
The future looks promising as we continue to explore new technologies and expand our geographic footprint. We are particularly excited about opportunities in sustainable technology and are committed to being at the forefront of this field in the region.
What business books have inspired you?
“Good to Great” by Jim Collins has been particularly inspirational, providing insights into what differentiates merely good companies from truly great ones. Another influential book has been “The Innovator’s Dilemma” by Clayton M. Christensen, which discusses how companies can do everything right and still lose their market leadership due to new, disruptive technologies.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
I would advise my younger self to be patient and steadfast. Success often takes longer than you expect, and it’s easy to get discouraged when things don’t progress as quickly as you’d hope. Also, value your network and never underestimate the power of building strong relationships.
Are you willing to be a mentor?
Absolutely, I am passionate about mentoring young entrepreneurs, especially those looking to leverage technology to solve real world problems. Sharing my experiences and guiding the next generation is a responsibility I take seriously and find incredibly rewarding.