AUT Ventures’ Entrepreneur-in-Residence 2023

Mujtaba created code visualisation and automated linking tools during his PhD in Software Engineering at AUT. He further developed Grappl™ as an Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) with AUT Ventures. The coding companion reduces the time spent on code maintenance and enables designers to spend more time innovating. We asked him about his experience and learnings as an entrepreneur.

What got you interested in entrepreneurship?

I was always passionate about growing financially and personally and having autonomy and flexibility in my work life. I knew I wanted to pursue the entrepreneurship path one day. During my doctoral research, I worked towards a proof-of-concept prototype, including user testing Grappl™ with code developers. Many told us the product would save time or solve a current problem, but it was when the research hit a breakthrough that I knew we had a great opportunity. My supervisor, Prof. Stephen McDonnell, also supported and encouraged the decision to pursue this commercialisation adventure.

What were your biggest learnings as an EIR with AUT Ventures?

Coming from a research background, I tended to work independently and virtually. However, entrepreneurship is all about being out there. You need to find your customers and understand their needs, and to foster connections with Industry. This is because you need strong relationships with the people who will be your customers or connect you to customers. My other key learning was to prepare to receive negative feedback. It is vital because it enables you to refine your product.

What advice would you give an aspiring entrepreneur?

Get out there and talk to people who are on a similar path to you. There is a lot to be learned, and you will have a very short time to learn it! Also, the AUT Ventures team are there to help and guide you, so make the most of them.