In today’s climate, accelerating as a business owner isn’t just about growing fast; It’s about rising with purpose, leading with clarity, and breaking through with resilience.
For me, ACCELERATE is not just a theme. It’s a call to action.
When the world tries to hold us back, leadership is our answer, action is our accelerator — and resilience is how we break through.
What ACCELERATE Means to Me
ACCELERATE means boldly moving forward, even when the road isn’t smooth. It means showing up as a leader when circumstances try to make you feel small. It means taking risks, staying grounded in values like honesty, integrity, and respect — and doing the hard work, every single day.
As the founder and CEO of VIVA USA Inc., a company I built from a single-employee firm in 1996 into a nationally recognized business, I’ve experienced firsthand how acceleration happens through clarity, action, and connection.
Actionable Advice to Accelerate Right Now
If you want to ACCELERATE your business success, here are three strategies I recommend to implement immediately:
1. Get Clear on Your Value
Your value proposition is more than a marketing phrase. It’s the real, measurable difference you — and your products or services — make in people’s lives. That clarity helps you focus your messaging, pricing, and partnerships.
2. Start with YOU
Before you pitch a service, present yourself. Your presence — in the room, online, and in your communication — reflects your brand. Be polished, professional, and purposeful. Whether you’re speaking on stage or standing in a hallway, your confidence and authenticity matter.
3. Be Different in a Way That’s Needed
Differentiation isn’t about being flashy — it’s about being useful. Solve real problems. Create real value. When you offer something that others need — and can feel — your growth is inevitable.
Networking: The Ultimate Accelerator
One of the greatest gifts the WBENC network offers is connection.
The WBENC National Conference isn’t just another industry event. It’s a community — a room filled with energy, experience, and endless opportunity. I’ve seen firsthand how networking here can spark strategic partnerships, client relationships, and even lifelong friendships.
To get the most out of the WBENC National Conference:
- Show up with clarity – Know your business, your mission, and your ask.
- Be curious – Listen before you speak. Understand needs before you pitch.
- Follow up – The first hello opens the door. Following up builds the bridge.
- Give value first – Share insight. Make a connection. Help someone. It comes back.
Some of the most powerful growth I’ve seen in my own company began with a simple connection — a shared mission, a quick conversation, a moment of mutual support.
The Long Game: Leadership and Lifelong Learning
For nearly 30 years, I’ve led VIVA USA with one guiding principle: Leadership isn’t about being the boss — it’s about being passionate, focused, caring, and committed to lifelong learning.
Every challenge we face — economic shifts, societal changes, or industry disruptions — is also an invitation to grow. I’ve learned to stay grounded by surrounding myself with trusted networks, giving back to organizations like WBENC, NMSDC, and USPAACC, and aligning with initiatives that reflect my values.
Acceleration, to me, is not just about increasing speed — it’s about deepening impact. And with that mindset, every step becomes momentum.
To the New WBEs Entering the Network
If you’re new to WBENC — welcome! You’re in the right place. Here’s how to make the most of your certification:
- Use your certification actively: Add it to your website, materials, and email signature.
- Engage with your RPO and attend events: Show up, ask questions, and meet people.
- Don’t wait for doors — knock on them: Reach out to corporate partners, fellow WBEs, and mentors. Start conversations. Be intentional.
This network was built to support you — but acceleration starts with your willingness to move.
Final Thoughts
My story — from arriving in the U.S. in 1991 to founding and growing VIVA USA — is rooted in grit, belief, and connection. It’s been a journey of risks, resilience, and relentless purpose.
As a 2025 WBENC Host Committee Member, I am honored to support and amplify women-owned businesses across the country.
So I’ll leave you with this:
Keep building. Keep rising. Keep accelerating.
The future is yours to shape — and now is the time to press the pedal.
Learn More: Viva-IT.com
Author
Vasanthi Ilangovan, CEO of VIVA USA, Inc.
Vasanthi Ilangovan serves as CEO of VIVA USA, Inc., an IT staffing and solutions provider. VIVA USA, Inc. partners with both Corporate and Government agencies, providing tailored solutions to match their clients’ needs.
Learn More: Viva-IT.com
