From a young computer science graduate in India to a billionaire entrepreneur in the US, Jyoti Bansal’s story exemplifies ambition, perseverance, and the immigrant dream. His journey, chronicled by Business Insider, reflects how vision and determination can turn obstacles into opportunities.
Early passion for startups
Bansal’s interest in entrepreneurship began during his computer science studies at one of India’s premier institutions. Fascinated by the idea of building a company from scratch, he was drawn to Silicon Valley, the global hub of innovation.
In 2000, at the age of 21, Bansal secured an H-1B visa, allowing him to work for a Silicon Valley startup with around 30 employees. The experience immersed him in a dynamic environment, interacting with some of the world’s brightest minds. “There was a buzz everywhere, even in the coffee shops,” he recalled.
Struggles with visa restrictions
Despite his skills, Bansal faced limitations. The H-1B visa restricted him to employment, preventing him from founding a company. “I knew I could create technology to solve a specific problem. I just needed the right immigration status,” he said.
For seven years, he waited patiently. When he finally received his green card, he immediately quit his job and founded AppDynamics, marking the start of his entrepreneurial journey.
Building AppDynamics and achieving massive success
Founded in 2008, AppDynamics specialised in software performance management, helping businesses monitor and optimise applications. Early challenges tested Bansal’s resolve, but his prior experiences proved invaluable.
Under his leadership, AppDynamics grew to employ nearly 2,000 people. In 2017, Cisco acquired the company for $3.7 billion (around ₹24,079 crore), cementing Bansal’s place among the most successful Indian-origin entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley.
New ventures and continued innovation
Even after AppDynamics, Bansal maintained his entrepreneurial momentum. His venture Harness, employing over 1,300 people, focuses on software delivery automation. He also manages a venture capital firm and another tech startup. Across these initiatives, Bansal has hired approximately 4,000 employees since becoming a permanent US resident.
He remains a vocal advocate for immigrant talent in Silicon Valley, highlighting the crucial role of H-1B visa holders in driving innovation and economic growth. “We attract the top talent globally, and that’s good for the country and the economy,” he noted.
Dual identity, single vision
Five years after receiving permanent residency, Bansal became a US citizen, embracing both his Indian heritage and American identity. “I have my Indian roots, which I’m proud of. But I am also proud to be an American,” he said.
From India to Silicon Valley, Jyoti Bansal’s story demonstrates that resilience, vision, and determination can transform dreams into global achievements, inspiring countless aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide.