Dan Holden's self-starter journey reached another milestone at the end of last year, with the founder of HoldenCAPITAL named as one of Australia's Top 100 Young Entrepreneurs.
For Dan Holden, the path to national recognition began in his spare bedroom on Queen Street during 2011.
Having parted ways with his previous employer, specialised real estate investment and advisory group Ashe Morgan Winthrop, he laid the foundation for what would go on to become HoldenCAPITAL, his own specialised contruction finance group.
Eight years later, HoldenCAPITAL has more than 160 active debt and equity providers, as well as offices in Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Hong Kong.
The company's progress has not gone unnoticed, with its founder coming in at 35 in Business News' recent Top 100 Young Australian Entrepreneurs list
Mr Holden joined other entrants on the list at a special function in Brisbane at the end of last year to celebrate the milestone.
Despite his success, the 38-year-old admitted to WILLIAMS MEDIA that he was a "reluctant" entrepreneur.
"It wasn't what I had initially set out to do," he said.
"What happened was more a consequence of the GFC coming in and forcing corporate firms to reduce their staff.
"I ended up backing myself and going out on my own, but that was not my original intention."
Intentional or not, Mr Holden's move toward autonomy has paid dividends.
HoldenCAPITAL was named Australia's number one commercial brokerage firm by The Advisor from 2015-2017, also ranking at 25 in BRW's list of Australia's fastest growing businesses for 2017.
It has led to further business opportunities for its founder, who now also has a regular podcast.
While it may seem as though the company has experienced a rapid rise, Mr Holden said having patience would be the best piece of advice he could pass on to others who are thinking of going down the same road.
"It's very easy to get excited by being involved in projects all over the country, but it's important to stay disciplined and stick to the ones you are comfortable with," he said.
"Everything looks like a deal at the start, but you've got to pick the ones you can confidently win on.
"If you try and take over the world tomorrow, you'll probaby run into trouble."
For information about HoldenCAPITAL, phone or email Dan Holden via the details below.