S3 E05 | How Anand Deshpande Built a $9 Billion Powerhouse: The Persistent Systems Story
Blume VenturesNovember 15, 202401:20:47

S3 E05 | How Anand Deshpande Built a $9 Billion Powerhouse: The Persistent Systems Story

This episode provides a deep dive into the journey of Persistent Systems, from its humble beginnings to becoming a global technology powerhouse.



Anand Deshpande shares insights on company growth, leadership transitions, and the importance of adapting to market changes. His perspectives on entrepreneurship, technology trends, and social impact offer valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and established business leaders alike.



Key Topics:




1.

Persistent’s growth journey and evolution through multiple business orbits




2.

Entrepreneurship challenges, scaling strategies, and leadership transitions




3.

Technology trends, including the impact of AI on the IT industry




4.

Social impact initiatives and philanthropic efforts 




5.

Global expansion and understanding international markets






Timestamps 



00:03:18 - Early life



00:06:55 - IIT Kharagpur experience



00:09:59 - US education and work



00:19:34 - Founding Persistent Systems



00:26:29 - Indian IT challenges in 1990



00:32:00 - Business model evolution



00:35:25 - Persistent’s S orbits 



00:39:46 - Transition from ‘My’ to ‘Our’ company



00:56:18 - VC funding and IPO



01:01:42 - Philanthropic initiatives



01:08:16 - Research projects



01:14:12 - AI impact on IT



01:16:36 - Rapid-fire questions