Mobiera is a company dedicated to software development. We have two business lines: the first is software development for our own exploitation through the commercialization of solutions for mobile operators. For example, we help them grow sales and monetize their databases. The second is software development for third parties, mostly SMEs or large companies with ideas that need to be formalized.

Who could be an ideal customer for Mobiera?

Large groups of operators anywhere in the world. This could be in Latin America, but also in Asia and other continents. Regarding our second business line, there are two types of ideal customers. First, they can be local customers here in Colombia who have an idea and want to bring it to life as a project. This way, we can help them from the beginning until the delivery of the project. We are also looking for European clients; since we have the 29B110 certification, we can guarantee high quality. This quality stems from the great skills of Colombian engineers, allowing us to offer quality at a lower cost, making us very competitive. Additionally, many people in our company speak English and French, enabling us to provide remote services with the same quality as a local company.

Can you think of a client you particularly enjoyed working with?

I have a client I particularly like, even though it was hard to secure. It is a very good client. I met with a Vietnamese company called Vietel, owned by the Vietnamese government. At that time, they had recently established an operator in Peru, so I traveled to Peru to meet with them and negotiate. In the end, we were able to implement all the solutions for mobile operators with them and helped improve their average monthly spend per user by 15% to 20% in six months.

Nowadays, we are in Asia thanks to this first contact we made at the World Mobile Congress.

What are you looking for from Europa Network?

First, to grow our second business line, software development for third parties. Second, I am interested in expanding my network by connecting with other entrepreneurs or people who are part of large companies. Nonetheless, I also want to make friendships and enjoy good wine.

What made you come to Colombia?

I had an experience in Mexico that I really enjoyed. Once I returned to Europe, I had grown accustomed to the Latin lifestyle, so I wanted to come back to Latin America. I chose Colombia for many reasons. The first time I came here, I really liked how people received me and what I saw. Therefore, I decided to sell my house, come here with my wife and kids, and found Mobiera.

Has it been easy to found a company in Colombia?

I have not had any problems creating the company here. I know there could be some issues with visas as a businessman, but it was easier back then than it is now. This is the only aspect; everything else has been easy. Colombian people are verfriendly, and it is a pleasure to work here in Colombia. I like it. People are happy, and the office environment is enjoyable. International clients notice this and tell us we have good energy, which has helped us attract clients.

What advice would you give to a European businessman who wants to come to Colombia?

I would tell him that, thanks to the good education we have received in Europe and the many opportunities here in Colombia, coming and establishing a business locally is a good opportunity. However, it is important to avoid wasting time on excessive research, as only a small part of it will be helpful. To sum up, it is better to come, see how things work, and adapt yourself.

Fabrice Rochette owner of Mobiera