What does TiE stand for and what does it represent?
TiE stands for "The Indus Entrepreneurs"; the name reflects the Indus or South Asian origin of the individuals who chartered the organization. It has been a strong belief of the TiE team that the organization offers a significant platform to bring together the Indus entrepreneurs with roots in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal) for shared purpose and vision. TiE is a global, not-for-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of Entrepreneurship. It is an open, inclusive, and transparent organization in all its beliefs and actions.

Is TiE membership limited to people of Indus origin?
No! In fact, TiE welcomes all entrepreneurs to join its membership and activities. The Charter Membership is by invitation, based on one's accomplishments as a professional and/or an entrepreneur. Annual dues are required from all.

How does one become a member of TiE?
Any one interested in affiliating with TiE as a member can sign-up by paying annual dues. The recommended way for sign-up is to fill up the membership form at this website. [ Become a member now ]

What is the philosophical base of TiE?
TiE's philosophical base is a strong mix of the Silicon Valley culture of economic value creation through Entrepreneurship, and the ancient Indian tradition of Guru/Chela or Teacher/Disciple) relationship. This gives rise to a very productive mentoring relationship between experienced and budding entrepreneurs through the two-way exchange of value in experience and knowledge.

Does TiE have any religious or political agendas or objectives?
No! TiE does not engage in political or religious activities, which tend to divide people. TiE is an inclusive organization for the benefit of all entrepreneurs who subscribe to its objectives.

Is TiE also a venture/investment organization?
No! TiE is not a venture/investments organization. However, TiE members, through their network relationships, often invest in companies with TiE affiliations. TiE also does not endorse any investments, even though companies may be presented at TiE events.

How and when was TiE started?
The concept of TiE was born at the end of 1992 at a lunch meeting of Silicon Valley entrepreneurs and professionals. Initially a small group of individuals launched the monthly activities and attracted others. By 1994, TiE became a formal organization with a larger group and significant visibility. TiE remains a strong volunteer organization with the single-minded focus on its objective of advancing entrepreneurship.

In addition to the impressive membership numbers, what are TiE's other accomplishments?
It is our estimate that those associated with TiE have created businesses with market value of about $75 Billion since 1992. There are hundreds of new companies in the making. The role and impact of TiE, as one can surmise, in these enterprises varies.

Please give us some examples of TiE related known companies?
Exodus Communications, Sycamore Communications, Hot Mail, Junglee, Versata, Selectica, are some of the highly visible examples.

How does a TiE chapter get started?
There are three prerequisites for the start of a chapter in a city or geographical area.

• A core team of successful entrepreneur (most of whom are potential charter members) makes an assessment of the feasibility of a TiE chapter in their location.
• Among the team there are 2 or 3 individuals who are willing to act as the "lightning rods" and are able to take the ownership of the TiE activities.