We are excited to feature Monika Mantilla, the dynamic co-founder of Altura Capital. Monika has been instrumental in driving impactful investments and fostering economic growth through her focus on diverse businesses. Her commitment to creating opportunities for minority entrepreneurs and generating social impact has earned her widespread recognition and respect in the industry.
Nixon Peabody’s team had the privilege of interviewing Monika to discuss her inspiring career journey, leadership style influenced by her heritage, and advice for aspiring Hispanic entrepreneurs.
Tell us a little about your career and the organization(s) you work with.
My name is Monika Mantilla. I am originally from Bogota, Colombia. I co-founded Altura Capital in 2005 as a vehicle to promote investing in high-potential small and diverse businesses that supply value-added goods and services to corporate America. In my 30-plus year career I have focused on offering above market returns to investors while delivering valuable economic impact to communities. As a result, our firm is recognized as a results-driven social impact investment firm and enjoys the support of repeat investors.
As someone who has had a successful career, what advice can you offer up-and-coming Hispanic entrepreneurs to help develop their own career journey?
My first piece of advice is to have a clear vision and mission for what you want to achieve, while also maintaining a set of values that define you as a person. Once you have this foundation, be confident in your ability to accomplish your goals and work hard to achieve them.
How has your heritage guided your leadership style?
My heritage and the values from my upbringing have guided me in identifying opportunity gaps within minority businesses and among minority entrepreneurs. I believe this untapped market presents incredible opportunities for economic growth in the United States. My heritage has also influenced me to provide opportunities within our organization for employees from diverse backgrounds, including ethnicity, gender, education, and career experience.
Is there a specific project or recent success you’re particularly proud of that you would like to share?
We are currently working on a confidential project that we hope will be made public soon. This initiative aims to enable resources for 169,000 girls in the Miami-Dade County School System and 72,000 girls that attend Miami Dade College. This project intends to provide promising returns to investors while creating a significant social impact in our community.
What inspires you or why do you do the work you do?
I consider myself to be both religious and spiritual. My greatest motivation in everything I do is the desire to tell God about the work I've done to make a positive impact on others when I have an encounter with Him.
Are there shared goals and values that drive the successful relationship between you and Nixon Peabody?
Yes, I appreciate Nixon Peabody’s commitment to making an impact in the community through their time, resources, and talent. We also strive to make a positive impact with every investment we make, and we ensure that we measure and track this impact.
