Raj Dhonota

Born and raised in Kent, Raj Dhonota first came to the public eye in 2005 during the first series of The Apprentice. Since his time on the reality programme he has gone on to become a successful serial entrepreneur and investor in start-up businesses covering a range of industries from eCommerce, property, language translation, network marketing, recruitment, fashion and consumer goods.

Having previously studied Law at Anglia Ruskin University, Raj has essentially been self-employed and involved in starting and growing businesses for over 15 years. His various business interests means he often undertakes a number of roles within an organisation including; business development and strategy, leading strategic technical direction, all forms of marketing as well as advising on financial matters.

Following his time on The Apprentice Raj set up and focused on his business Global Proximity. Within just three years he grew the business into a multi-million pound company before selling it in order to pursue further business ventures.
Raj is presently involved in a number of business ventures. One of these is Igniva Solutions, a software development firm that specialises in website and mobile application development, desktop software development and online marketing. Raj has been instrumental in growing Igniva Solutions from zero to a team of 400 with a turnover of around £2 million per year.

Raj’s interests, both commercially and non-commercially, are focused on helping people start a business or helping small businesses grow. As an entrepreneur with an international focus, Raj’s particular expertise lies in taking advantage of new and emerging economies such as the BRICS countries. He also uses this expertise to advise others in how to take advantage of the various international opportunities that are available.

As well as his own commercial interests and investments, Raj is involved in a number of schemes that are set up to help nurture entrepreneurial talent. He often donates his time to mentoring school children through schemes such as Apps for Good; as well as providing advice and guidance through public speaking and The Start-Up Academy. He is also very active in charity work and has recently set up The Caring Enterprise Scheme that aims to recognise businesses that are willing to pledge percentage of their profits to good causes each year.