Why do Indian entrepreneurs choose to study abroad

In recent years, India has emerged as a hotbed for start-ups, with a growing number of young entrepreneurs making significant strides in technology, finance, education, and healthcare. What's interesting is that a substantial number of these start-up founders are alumni of international universities. Their exposure to global education, diverse cultures, and innovative ecosystems is playing a pivotal role in transforming India's entrepreneurial landscape. Let's explore how studying abroad has influenced many successful start-up founders in India and why this trend is growing.

Why Do Indian Entrepreneurs Choose to Study Abroad?

For many Indian students, studying abroad is a pathway to gaining new perspectives, honing entrepreneurial skills, and building networks that go beyond national boundaries. Universities in countries like the USA, UK, and Canada not only provide top-tier education but also offer extensive support systems for aspiring entrepreneurs.

• 1. Access to Cutting-Edge Research and Technology

  Universities like Stanford, MIT, and Harvard are renowned for their innovation-driven approach. They give students access to state-of-the-art research facilities and resources, inspiring them to think outside the box. Many Indian start-up founders have benefited from this environment, where creativity and practical application of knowledge go hand in hand.

• 2. Exposure to Global Start-Up Ecosystems

  The global start-up hubs of Silicon Valley, London, and Berlin offer more than just a backdrop for learning—they immerse students in vibrant ecosystems that encourage innovation, networking, and risk-taking. Entrepreneurs who have studied in these environments often return to India with a broadened vision and the know-how to apply successful models to the Indian market.

• 3. Networking and Mentorship Opportunities

  International universities provide unparalleled networking opportunities. Many Indian entrepreneurs leverage the connections they make during their study years to find investors, mentors, and co-founders. These networks often become crucial during the early stages of building a start-up.

Indian Start-Up Founders Who Studied Abroad

• 1. Kunal Bahl, Co-founder of Snapdeal

  Kunal Bahl's journey started at the University of Pennsylvania, where he studied engineering and business. He also spent a semester at the Wharton School, learning from industry leaders. After a brief stint at Microsoft, Bahl returned to India to launch Snapdeal, which has since become one of India's largest e-commerce platforms.

• 2. Ritesh Agarwal, Founder of OYO Rooms

  Ritesh Agarwal may not have a typical academic background, but his experience at the Thiel Fellowship—a program in the USA that funds young entrepreneurs—was a game-changer. He returned to India with a unique perspective, and his venture, OYO Rooms, revolutionized India's hospitality industry.

• 3. Deepinder Goyal, Co-founder of Zomato

  Deepinder Goyal studied at IIT Delhi, but it was his exposure to international markets that influenced Zomato's growth strategy. The company's expansion to over 24 countries is a testament to Goyal's global vision and understanding of cross-border business dynamics, something he attributes to his travels and interactions with international business leaders.

• 4. Vivek Ramaswamy, Founder of Roivant Sciences

  Vivek Ramaswamy, a Harvard and Yale alumnus, launched Roivant Sciences—a biotech company—after his experiences in the US healthcare sector. Though primarily US-based, his Indian roots have inspired him to bring healthcare innovations to emerging markets, including India.

• 5. Bhavish Aggarwal, Co-founder of Ola Cabs

  Bhavish Aggarwal studied at IIT Bombay but later spent time at Microsoft Research in the US. His exposure to the American tech landscape and innovative solutions inspired him to create Ola Cabs, which has since disrupted India's transportation sector.

How Studying Abroad Fuels Innovation Back Home

One of the key factors that set these entrepreneurs apart is their ability to merge global best practices with a deep understanding of the local Indian market. They're able to identify gaps and create solutions that cater specifically to Indian consumers while applying strategies that have been successful internationally. This hybrid approach is evident in ventures like:

• OYO Rooms' Expansion Model: Inspired by global hotel chains, but tailored for budget-conscious Indian travellers.

• Zomato's Focus on Hyperlocal Content: Leveraging international experience to build a robust restaurant discovery platform with localised content.

The Ripple Effect: Inspiring the Next Generation

The success stories of these start-up founders have inspired a new generation of Indian students to look beyond national boundaries for education. Many aspiring entrepreneurs now see international education not just as a means of personal growth but as a strategic step toward building successful ventures in India.

With the Indian government's push for start-up growth through initiatives like Start-up India, the role of these globally educated entrepreneurs is becoming even more critical. They bring international expertise, funding, and mentorship to the local market, driving India's innovation ecosystem forward.

Conclusion

As more Indian students seek education abroad, we can expect this trend to continue. The exposure to global perspectives and advanced technology equips them with the tools needed to address India's unique challenges. This fusion of global and local insights is what will shape the future of India's start-up ecosystem, making it more resilient, innovative, and globally competitive.

In the coming years, the intersection of international education and entrepreneurial ambition will continue to redefine what's possible for Indian start-ups, fostering a new era of growth and innovation.