The Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

Matti Anttila, the 28-year-old investment banker turned spirits entrepreneur, doesn't spend his time theorizing about what his customers might want from his premium, double-distilled Cabana Cachaca.

His most valuable research, rather, comes from trips to Brazil, hosting swanky Manhattan parties and his own cocktail preferences.

While at J.P. Morgan (JPM Quote), Anttila spent a lot of time on business in Brazil, where one can't help but be immersed in the cachaca culture.

The light bulb went on while he was sitting in Santa Barbara, Calif., drinking a caipirinha (made with lime and cachaca), and today he is part of a growing breed of adventurous entrepreneurs whose age gives them an edge over those with more traditional business models.

Age Matters

"[Young entrepreneurs] are not weighed down by preconceived notions," says Jennifer Kushell, founder of Young and Successful Media Corporation, the first network to connect young entrepreneurs in more than 100 countries.

They also tend to be much more idealistic, she says, a trait that can actually help them push through rough spots. The concept of analysis paralysis (the more educated you are, the more you fear failure) coupled with a growing list of responsibilities make Anttila's style of entrepreneurship more difficult as one gets older, she points out, because "it's harder to walk a fine line or even cross the line."

For now, Anttila isn't afraid to walk that line as he shapes his company to tap into the sexy, sultry image of Brazil that is so appealing from a young-consumer-brand standpoint. Anttila admits he has taken a lot of risks, but believes he is in the right place with the right business strategy.