Meet Raphael Rohner, CEO & Founder R17 Ventures AG

Please tell us about R17 Ventures AG

R17 Ventures is a digital growth agency specializing in performance marketing, lead generation, e-commerce strategies, and automation. We drive real business growth through data-driven solutions and innovative digital campaigns, tailored to each client’s needs, with performance-based remuneration.

Founded in 2020 by Raphael Rohner, R17 Ventures was built on the belief that performance marketing drives business growth. With a vision to align our success with our clients’, we operate on a results-based remuneration model. Today, we have over 50 full-time employees across offices in Zurich and Cape Town, delivering impactful outcomes.

Tell us more about your plans for 2024 and what is your long-term vision.

In 2024, we plan to expand our service offerings, integrate more advanced AI-driven marketing tools, and grow our client base globally. Our long-term vision is to become a leading digital growth partner for startups and established businesses, delivering innovative solutions and sustainable growth.

What has been the biggest success that you have achieved in your startup?

The success of our internal academy, recognized and supported by the Swiss Embassy in South Africa, has been our greatest achievement. We’ve also helped dozens of companies and entrepreneurs scale their brands online. These milestones underscore our commitment to education and impactful growth in the digital space.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? What are your biggest learnings?

The digital marketing landscape has changed dramatically in the past two years. With our current knowledge, we would have invested in content production and data/analytics capabilities even earlier. Another key learning is the importance of company culture, especially when a team is growing rapidly—it’s crucial to maintaining cohesion and success.

What motivates you to continue your business every day?

What drives us daily is the chance to make a tangible impact on our clients’ businesses, fueling growth and success through innovative digital marketing strategies. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our work deliver real, measurable success for others—this is what makes our efforts truly meaningful.

One piece of advice for someone who is just starting out with their startup?

Focus relentlessly on sales and new business—no company has ever failed from having too many clients. The rest often falls into place naturally. Stay committed to your vision but remain flexible in your approach. Learn from every experience, pivot when necessary, and surround yourself with a supportive, knowledgeable team.

What does it mean to you to be a member of the Swiss Startup Association?

Being a member of the Swiss Startup Association means access to a vibrant community of like-minded entrepreneurs, invaluable resources, and opportunities for networking and growth, both personally and professionally.

Would you recommend joining the Swiss Startup Association? Why?

Yes, we highly recommend joining the Swiss Startup Association. It provides invaluable support, resources, and a platform to connect with other entrepreneurs and industry experts, fostering growth and innovation.

Have you ever visited the events of the Swiss Startup Association? If yes, which ones? Would you recommend them?

Not yet, but 2024 is set to be the year it happens.

Is there anything that we haven’t asked you that you would like to share with us/the community?

If you’re a startup or scale-up seeking a dedicated partner to boost your sales, leads, and downloads using cutting-edge technology, we’re here to help. Visit our website to schedule a meeting with one of our growth consultants and let’s discuss how we can drive your business forward.