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Our Founder Series is a collection of written interviews with our portfolio’s founders, in which we shine the spotlight on the businesses they’ve come to build on the base of disruptive innovation and get to know more about them as people.
The next instalment features Nguyen Hai Ninh, Co-Founders of M Village- a boutique hospitality startup in Vietnam that integrates technology to deliver high-quality, culturally immersive accommodations, combining modern convenience with local charm to meet the growing demand for unique and personalized travel experiences.
How did you first get started on your entrepreneurial journey?
My entrepreneurial journey began with The Coffee House, which I founded and grew into the second-largest coffee chain in Vietnam. During my 20s, I traveled extensively and observed a significant shift in how young people were living and working. With the rise of remote work, many were looking for accommodations that felt like home, even when they were on the move. This realization inspired me to create M Village, a hotel concept that caters to the needs of this new generation—offering a blend of comfort, local culture, and the convenience of home, no matter where they are.
How does the growth of M Village complement the growth of Vietnam?
Vietnam is rapidly becoming a hot destination for both tourism and business, yet travelers often face limited options for accommodation. While international brands like Marriott and Accor are available, they tend to be expensive and lack diversity, offering a somewhat monotonous experience. On the other hand, local mom-and-pop hotels, while charming, often suffer from inconsistent quality. M Village bridges this gap by providing a high-quality, boutique experience that is both affordable and culturally enriching. Our growth complements Vietnam’s development by offering travelers a distinctive, reliable alternative that showcases the best of what the country has to offer.
What is the typical persona of a M Village guest and how long is the typical stay?
M Village offers a wide range of accommodations to suit various purposes, so there’s truly something for everyone. However, if I were to narrow down a typical persona, it would be someone who is modern, young at heart, and values authentic experiences. Our guests are often young professionals, digital nomads, or couples who seek a blend of comfort, style, and convenience. They appreciate thoughtful design, a connection to local culture, and the seamless integration of technology in their stay. The length of stay varies, with some guests staying for just a few days, while others choose to stay for a few months, depending on their needs.
What are major trends you see in the growth of Vietnam which will help to support your business model?
Several trends are driving Vietnam's growth, which in turn supports our business model. The rise in domestic travel, increased disposable income, and the growing middle class are fueling demand for unique and high-quality accommodations. Additionally, Vietnam's burgeoning tech scene aligns perfectly with our tech-integrated hotel experience. Finally, the government’s focus on developing infrastructure and promoting tourism is creating an environment where businesses like ours can thrive.
You recently received a strategic investment. Tell us about how that will shape your longer term strategy?
The strategic investment we received will be instrumental in accelerating our growth. It will allow us to expand our footprint in Vietnam and beyond, enhancing our technological capabilities and improving our customer experience. With this investment, we aim to innovate further, offering new services and experiences that align with our guests’ evolving needs. Our longer-term strategy is to solidify M Village as a leading name in the boutique hotel space in Southeast Asia, known for blending modern amenities with local charm.
What advice do you have for budding entrepreneurs in South East Asia?
Entrepreneurship is tough—there’s no easy path. My advice is to persevere and embrace challenges because they open the door to new opportunities. As I always say, "If there are no difficulties, there’s no chance for new models to emerge."
Take risks and be bold in implementing your ideas. The real test of success is whether customers come back—if they do, you’re on the right track. Remember, nothing worth doing is easy, and failure is part of the journey. But if you don’t try, you’ll never know what you’re capable of. So, dare to take that first step; it’s already a success.
