From a young computer science graduate in India to a billionaire entrepreneur in the US, Jyoti Bansal’s rise stands as a powerful symbol of ambition and perseverance. His journey, reported by Business Insider, captures the essence of the modern immigrant dream — turning obstacles into opportunities through determination and vision.
Early Passion for Startups
While pursuing computer science at one of India’s premier institutions, Bansal developed a deep fascination for entrepreneurship. “I was fascinated by startups, the idea that you could start a company from scratch that provided outstanding services, technologies, and jobs,” he said. For him, Silicon Valley — the heart of global innovation — was where he wanted to be.
Moving to the United States, however, came with challenges. In 2000, at just 21, Bansal managed to secure an H-1B visa, which allowed him to work for a Silicon Valley startup of about 30 employees. The experience opened his eyes to a new world of innovation. “I was surrounded by some of the smartest people in the world. There was a buzz everywhere, even in the coffee shops,” he recalled.
Struggles with Visa Restrictions
Despite his growing expertise and passion, Bansal faced a major roadblock. His H-1B visa allowed him to work only as an employee, not as a founder. “It was very frustrating. I knew I could create the technology to solve a specific problem. I just needed the right immigration status,” he said.
For seven years, Bansal waited patiently, unable to legally start his own business. His persistence finally paid off when he received his green card. “I immediately quit my job, even before the final paperwork came through, and started my company, AppDynamics,” he said.
Building AppDynamics and Making History
Launched in 2008, AppDynamics focused on software performance management — helping businesses monitor and optimise their applications. The company’s early days were filled with uncertainty, but Bansal’s years of experience proved critical. “I learned what went right and, even more importantly, what went wrong,” he shared.
Under his leadership, AppDynamics grew rapidly, employing nearly 2,000 people at its peak. In 2017, Cisco acquired the company for a remarkable $3.7 billion (around ₹24,079 crore), making Bansal one of the most successful Indian-origin entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley.
New Ventures and the Spirit of Innovation
Even after the massive success of AppDynamics, Bansal didn’t slow down. His new venture, Harness, employs over 1,300 people and specialises in software delivery automation. Alongside it, he runs a venture capital firm and another tech startup. “Since becoming a permanent resident, I’ve hired about 4,000 people,” he noted.
Bansal continues to advocate for both American jobs and immigrant talent. “That’s the beauty of immigration. Silicon Valley is successful because of the people, many of whom come on H-1B visas. We attract the top talent globally, and that’s good for the country and the economy,” he said.
Dual Identity, Single Vision
Five years after obtaining permanent residency, Bansal became a US citizen — a moment of pride that reflected both his Indian roots and his American success story. “I have my Indian heritage, which I’m proud of. But I am also proud to be an American,” he said.
From his early fascination with startups in India to building multi-billion-dollar companies in the US, Jyoti Bansal’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering belief in one’s dreams.