Juan Montoya, Co-Founder & CEO, Rokk3r Inc.

In an interview with Invest:, Juan Montoya, co-founder and CEO of Rokk3r Inc., discussed the company’s recent milestones, the transformative role of AI, trends in blockchain, the evolving entrepreneurial ecosystem, the impact of economic challenges on venture building, and his vision for Miami’s future.

What have been the key milestones and achievements for Rokk3r Inc. over the last year?

Over the past 12 to 18 months, we’ve continued growing while refining our focus. Rokk3r, a 13- to 14-year-old venture builder, has evolved by learning and adapting to strengthen this once-rare model, especially in Miami.

One milestone was doubling down on efforts with portfolio companies. About 18 months ago, we acquired AdMobilize, specializing in computer vision and AI, deepening our commitment to transformative technologies. We’ve also prioritized scaling portfolio companies over building new ones. For example, Cargologik is progressing toward raising a Series A round next year with support from funds like Ocean Azul Partners, while EmotionTrac, an AI-focused firm, is steadily advancing.

On the corporate innovation side, we’ve expanded beyond venture-building services, which include creating products and addressing operational changes with startup agility. Recently, we added accelerator and open innovation programs tailored for corporate clients, including successful programs for blockchain platforms to enhance corporate adoption.

How has AI influenced your business approach, and what opportunities do you see?

AI has been transformative over the past two years. Generative AI has removed traditional barriers to experimentation; you no longer need teams of engineers or Ph.D.s to explore its potential, which is a game changer.

This shift has led us to rethink our services and tools, from pricing to execution. AI enables us to boost productivity, enhance creativity, and eliminate menial tasks across all levels, from operations to customer service. On a broader scale, AI has the potential to reshape the labor market by freeing up time for creativity and innovation.

What trends within AI and blockchain do you find most promising for startups and corporations?

In AI, the biggest shift is its accessibility. Organizations no longer need to build AI products from scratch; they can implement tools to enhance efficiency, boost creativity, and automate tasks. This democratization allows businesses to integrate AI at every level, from customer service to operations, creating transformative outcomes.

For blockchain, the promise lies in decentralized systems and democratized access to financial products. While regulatory challenges and scams have hurt the industry, the focus is shifting to real-world applications beyond cryptocurrencies, with potential in sectors like real estate, financial services, and asset management.

AI will likely permeate every aspect of business, while blockchain adoption will depend on where its use makes sense. To maximize their impact, companies must build the right infrastructure — robust data systems for AI or scalable platforms for blockchain. Those who invest in foundational capabilities will be better positioned to leverage these technologies effectively.

What shifts have you observed in the entrepreneurial ecosystem in your key markets?

In Miami and Latin America, the venture-building model has matured significantly. Over the last decade, more entrepreneurs and investors have embraced it as a way to mitigate risk, accelerate timelines, and optimize portfolios. I expect to see more corporate and independent venture builder models emerge.

In Miami, the ecosystem has grown remarkably post-pandemic. The talent pool has expanded, venture capital investments surged, and the diversity of startups has improved. In 2023, Miami saw nearly $3 billion in venture funding, ranking seventh nationally. Startups in fintech, blockchain, healthtech, and green technologies are now making waves.

In Latin America, the picture is more mixed. Pre-pandemic, venture capital activity was heating up, but political instability and economic challenges caused slowdowns. However, renewed interest in digital transformation is emerging as companies recognize the need to stay competitive. Decision-making has been slow but shows signs of improving next year.

How has the economic climate impacted venture building and early-stage investments?

The early months of this inflationary cycle felt like a collective hangover, as people realized it wasn’t a transient phase. Over the last decade,  particularly post-2008, interest rates were historically low, leading to abundant capital and a surge in investments.

As rates have risen, institutional investors now see higher yields in lower-risk investments, reducing interest in riskier ventures. This shift has led to more caution in fund allocation, a slowdown in early-stage investments, and tougher scrutiny for entrepreneurs. However, innovation and risk-taking will always have a place in portfolios, particularly at the high-risk, high-reward end.

As inflation eases and the economic outlook stabilizes, we may see a return to more dynamic investment activity. While there are concerns about a potential recession, these cycles are part of broader economic realities, and we’ll adapt.

How do you foster collaboration between corporations, entrepreneurs, and investors to create synergistic opportunities?

Collaboration begins with engaging organizations open to the idea. We use methods like accelerator programs, often called open innovation, to connect corporates and startups. Corporations can challenge startups to solve specific problems or invest in those aligned with their industries, fostering mutual benefit.

We also encourage corporations to create “mini venture builders,” small funds for higher-risk entrepreneurial investments, and support internal venture building to develop ideas from within.

Fostering collaboration means convincing corporations to take calculated risks. Ignoring trends or avoiding innovation leads to stagnation, as history shows with companies disrupted by emerging trends. Our role is to ensure this doesn’t happen by facilitating meaningful, forward-looking partnerships.

What are your top priorities and goals for the next two to three years?

Over the next few years, our priorities are twofold. First, we aim to grow and strengthen our portfolio. This involves helping our portfolio companies achieve exits, gain liquidity, or scale. We take a patient, long-term approach to investment, so while quick exits aren’t a primary focus, we’re actively managing our portfolio with these outcomes in mind.

Second, on the corporate side, our focus is on guiding companies through their transformation and innovation journeys. This could mean integrating AI or helping them embrace risk-taking to drive innovation. The knowledge industry is rapidly evolving due to new tools and technologies, and we aim to remain lean, fast, and adaptable to help our clients navigate these changes.

What is your vision for Miami over the next decade, and what role will Rokk3r play in it?

My vision for Miami is for it to become a place where technology companies thrive in a way that creates opportunities for everyone. We’re seeing that happen now, but I hope it continues to foster homegrown companies that grow into major employers in the region.

Rokk3r’s role is to continue what we’ve always done: support Miami’s tech ecosystem. As one of the first venture builders in the area, we’ve been here for the entire ride. Our goal is to remain a part of Miami’s evolution, contributing to its economy and helping the city establish itself as a global hub for technology and innovation.