Outlook Business,

Brijesh Agrawal, COO, IndiaMART InterMESH Ltd. Alumni of NIILM Centre for Management Studies says, “When you nurture and raise an idea, everything attached to it is new, experimental and undergoes many transitions to evolve into a full-fledged entity. When we started IndiaMART, it was a fresh idea in India and not many people were aware of online B2B platforms. To spread awareness was the first major task followed by educating SMEs about the vitality & benefits of internet and online business promotion. And we understood clearly that doing all of this profitably, in a self-sustained manner was the real key to growth & success. With hand holding and diligent efforts, we over came these major challenges eventually. SMEs know us, rely on us and grow with us now.”

It is the perseverance which has enabled Brijesh reached where he has. IndiaMART.com was started in April 1996, at a time when there were only 500 odd internet connections in the country. Being an early believer in the power of internet, the team built this business step-by-step and reach this stage today. As Agrawal says, “I totally believe in what NIILM CMS stands for – ‘Shaping Leadership through Values & Vision’. The environment, the faculty here allows you to explore your true potential. Those learning years at my alma mater laid the foundation of what I am today.”

A great believer in education and strategy he is bullish on the future despite present time slowdown. He adds, “This is a global phenomenon and all companies are reeling under it. However, it is just a phase which shall get over soon. At IndiaMART.com, we have been focused on our business strategy and prepared for any adversities in the economy or industry. This is what has helped us sail through the dot com bust, economic downturns, among others. We believe that this uncertainty has very little impact on our growth plans.”