TechHub Opens Its First Non-European Branch In Bangalore

TechHub founded by Mike Butcher and Elizabeth Varley opened in London on July 9th, 2010. TechHub is a community of entrepreneurs and start ups in the field of technology. Its goal was to provide entrepreneurs a place to share ideas, work and congregate with like minded people. They also provide office space to entrepreneurs who otherwise would be forced to work from home or cafes, or even a garage. Google soon took an interest in the venture and became a partner.

TechHub has opened its branches in many European cities like Manchester, Swansea, Riga, Berlin etc. Local entrepreneurs run these branches. But for the first time they have opened a hub in the East. On July 9th this year, TechHub opened a branch in Bangalore, and they have plans to open others in India.

Since its launch TechHub Global has attracted many entrepreneurs and nearly 1000 startups are its members. Though only entrepreneurs are granted membership at TechHub, it also provides a platform that larger tech companies can use to evaluate emerging technological trends. The events organized by TechHub bring great opportunity for companies looking to invest in startups. The entrepreneurs can access TechHub’s network and get the necessary guidance and education without having to give up equity, and investors and corporate can get access to the innovative ideas at work.

The motive behind the company’s expansion into India is to gain access to the country’s technology Industry which is predicted to be worth $100 billion. TechHub estimates that in Bangalore there are nearly 4000 startups in the technology field. TechHub has said that in the previous year alone, Bangalore has attracted more talent in technology than Silicon Valley.

Last year Mohandas Pai, the formar Infosys CFO visited TechHub London. This prompted the company to consider expansion in India. They approached Stewart Noakes, a successful entrepreneur who recently sold his software testing startup. He soon saw the potential of a linkup between the European and Indian startup ecosystem and accepted TechHub’s proposal, becoming the co-founder of TechHub Bangalore. He feels that the international network of TechHub will help Bangalore startups go global.

TechHub’s foray into India will replicate its existing model; a group of mentors and partners will be formed from the industry leaders and this group will then engage with the local startup community. The Hub will serve a dual purpose; that of supporting the innovations of local entrepreneurs and providing European corporate and investors access to the Indian technological talents.