IIT Kanpur Alumni Donate Rs 100 Crore to Set Up New School
In a remarkable show of support for their alma mater, the alumni of the 2000 batch of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur have pledged a record donation of Rs 100 crore. This significant contribution will be utilized to establish the Millennium School of Technology and Society (MSTAS), a new educational institution aimed at integrating technology, policy, and societal transformation.
About the Donation
The donation, which is the largest batch contribution in the history of IIT Kanpur, reflects the commitment of successful entrepreneurs to give back to their educational roots. Leading this initiative is Naveen Tewari, the founder of InMobi, who has personally contributed Rs 30 crore. Under Tewari’s leadership, InMobi became India’s first unicorn startup, achieving a billion-dollar valuation in 2011.
Contributors to the MSTAS Fund
Alongside Tewari, several other notable alumni have joined in this philanthropic effort. Contributors include:
- Amit Kumar Agarwal, founder of NoBroker
- Amit Gupta, founder of Yulu
- Founders of startups such as Knowlarity and Card91
Goals of the Millennium School of Technology and Society
The MSTAS aims to foster critical thinking, leadership, and a global perspective among its students. By focusing on the intersection of technology and policy, the school aspires to prepare future leaders who can navigate and influence societal transformation effectively.
Growing Trend of Alumni Contributions
This donation is part of a broader trend among successful Indian entrepreneurs who are increasingly supporting their alma maters. Notable contributions from other alumni include:
- Nandan Nilekani, co-founder of Infosys, who has donated Rs 400 crore to IIT Bombay over the years.
- An anonymous alumnus who contributed Rs 160 crore to IIT Bombay in 2023.
- Rakesh Gangwal, founder of Indigo, who donated Rs 100 crore to IIT Kanpur.
- Ashok Soota of Happiest Minds, who contributed Rs 20 crore to IIT Roorkee.
- Rakesh Kapoor of Reckitt, who donated Rs 10 crore to BITS Pilani.
Impact of Alumni Support on Educational Institutions
The establishment of MSTAS at IIT Kanpur marks a significant step in fostering innovation and leadership among future Indian technologists and entrepreneurs. With alumni support on the rise, educational institutions are becoming increasingly recognized as hubs where education meets real-world impact.
Conclusion
The generous donation from the IIT Kanpur alumni not only underscores their commitment to advancing education but also highlights the importance of integrating technology and societal needs. As the Millennium School of Technology and Society takes shape, it promises to be a vital contributor to the development of future leaders equipped to tackle the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
Note: This article reflects the latest developments as of December 30, 2025.
