The Cardiff Business Awards 2024 celebrated the outstanding achievements of businesses and individuals who are shaping the future of Cardiff’s economy.
In this series of interviews we spotlight the winners, sharing their stories and celebrating their contributions.
Among this year’s winners is Datamonet, which was honoured with the Technology Business of the Year. We spoke with the company’s representative, Sameer Rahman, to learn more.
1.How does your business contribute to Cardiff's community, and what impact do you hope to have on the local economy or society?
Datamonet is deeply committed to contributing to Cardiff's community and positively impacting the local economy and society.
Our efforts include: Empowering Local Businesses – We collaborate with Cardiff-based companies like Amber, FSEW, Coincover, Aldermore Bank, Hodge Bank, Confused.com to integrate data-driven strategies into their operations, enhancing efficiency and competitiveness. For instance, our work with The Royal Mint involved embedding data and digital transformation into their decision-making processes, reinforcing their business model and driving market share in the car and home insurance.
Job Creation and Skill Development – By establishing data science teams and leading digital transformation projects, we create high-skilled employment opportunities in Our mentorship programs have guided numerous individuals toward successful data careers, with some mentees advancing to ‘Head Of' and ‘Director' positions in various organisations. Supporting Startups – We assist local startups in defining their business models and securing investment, fostering innovation and economic growth. Community Engagement – Our team actively participates in local initiatives, including serving on boards of organizations such as the Football Association of Wales and Glamorgan Cricket Club, contributing to the cultural and social fabric of Cardiff.
Through these initiatives, Datamonet aims to drive economic development, nurture talent, and support the growth of a vibrant, data-informed business community in Cardiff.
2. Are there any emerging trends or innovations in your field that you believe will transform business in Cardiff?
In our view the below trends will transform the data landscape for businesses if all types which will all be driven by data. Al-Powered Decision Making – Automating insights for smarter, faster strategic choices in the boardroom.
Data Democratisation – Enabling accessible data across teams, fostering a data-driven culture for agile responses. Personalisation with Al – Using customer data for tailored experiences, increasing engagement and loyalty. loT and Edge Computing – Real-time data processing for cost efficiency in manufacturing and logistics. Ethical and Transparent Al – Ensuring responsible Al use and trust with explainable models, building compliance and confidence.
3. What keeps you motivated during tough times? Are there any lessons you'd share about resilience and adaptability?
What keeps me motivated during tough times is a strong belief in the positive impact our work can have on businesses and communities. We genuinely believe we can scale and grow businesses through the use of data and tech and the fact that businesses are missing out on opportunities. Seeing how data-driven insights can empower leaders to make strategic decisions and bring real growth, even in challenging environments, drives me to keep pushing forward. Additionally, I find motivation in the support and collaboration within my team, friends, and above all family knowing that we're collectively working toward meaningful goals gives me a sense of purpose and determination. We are drive by a genuine desire to change businesses to be better.
A key lesson I'd share about resilience is the importance of focusing on the long-term vision rather than short-term setbacks. Challenges are inevitable, but viewing them as learning experiences helps me and the team adapt and come out stronger. Adaptability, in particular, comes from staying open to new solutions, being willing to pivot strategies, and continuously evolving with emerging trends. By keeping the big picture in mind and embracing change, you build a foundation for enduring success that can withstand even the toughest times. This is why our proposition is focussed around ‘Data in the Boardroom'.
An example of resilience and adaptability was during the early stages of scaling Datamonet, when we faced unexpected financial constraints due to a delayed client project. With cash flow affected, we had to find immediate ways to manage resources without compromising our service quality or growth goals. Rather than viewing this challenge as a limitation, we turned it into an opportunity to re-evaluate our processes and strengthen our operational resilience. We prioritized essential projects, optimized workflows, and streamlined expenses to maximize efficiency. Additionally, we began exploring alternative revenue streams, offering specialized, shorter-term data workshops that allowed us to bring in revenue while building strong client relationships.
As a result of this ‘Power Hour' and ‘Data Strategy Training' idea was born which are both a significant revenue driver for Datamonet. This period taught us the value of agile thinking and creative problem-solving. By adapting quickly, focusing on our core strengths, and finding new ways to serve clients, we emerged from the situation with a leaner, more flexible business model. The takeaway: unexpected constraints can be valuable opportunities to refine your operations, diversify, and reinforce your foundation for long-term resilience.
4. What advice would you give to budding entrepreneurs or professionals in Cardiff who are inspired by your journey?
To budding entrepreneurs and professionals in Cardiff, here's my practical advice: Start with Clear Goals and a Real Market Need – Understand the problem you're solving and validate it with real data and focus on an unmet need in the market rather than building something you assume people want. This will keep you anchored and attract the right clients or customers from the start.
Network Strategically and with purpose – Connect with other entrepreneurs, industry experts, and mentors within Cardiff and Attend local events, join industry groups, and don't be afraid to ask for advice. These relationships can open doors, bring new ideas, and offer support during challenging times. Embrace Change and re-pivot if necessary – The business landscape changes fast, especially in tech and Be ready to pivot your strategy if new trends or customer needs arise. Flexibility is an asset that can set you apart in a competitive market.
Think Long-Term, but Focus on Small Wins – Break your goals down into achievable steps and celebrate each win. These small successes build momentum and reinforce progress toward your larger vision. Always think of adding on new propositions – For example, I started Datamonet as a data strategy consultancy and subsequently have added Data Strategy Training and also become an online instructor on it giving me new revenue streams and more international reach.
Think Big- While you are there to improve the economy of Cardiff and play your part in developing the city, ensure your funding, investment and clients are much more UK wide. It's not as daunting as you think to expand globally. I have clients in UK, Canada, Middle East and teams in India within two years of setting the business. Do your homework – On the market, the customers, their needs, their points, target market, segment – fit the product to the market and don't try fitting the market to your product/ service.
Never compromise on values and never underestimate and question your talent but at the same time never be complacent and always keep learning.
