InMobi, Glance, NoBroker, Yulu, Knowlarity Founders Pledge Rs 100 Cr for IIT Kanpur School
The Class of 2000 alumni from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur has made a significant commitment of Rs 100 crore to establish a new academic unit at the institute. This initiative was announced during the batch’s silver jubilee reunion held in Kanpur.
Introduction to the Millennium School of Technology and Society (MSTAS)
The proposed academic unit, named the Millennium School of Technology and Society (MSTAS), aims to explore the intersection of technology, public policy, ethics, and societal impact. This new school is designed to complement IIT Kanpur’s existing strengths in engineering and science, reflecting the evolving landscape of technology and its implications for society.
A Historic Contribution
This pledge is notable as it represents one of the largest contributions made by a single graduating batch to an Indian academic institution. The Class of 2000, often referred to as the Millennium Batch, is recognized for its strong presence in entrepreneurship and global technology leadership.
Notable Alumni and Their Contributions
Members of the Class of 2000 have founded or co-founded several successful companies, including:
- InMobi – A leading mobile advertising platform.
- Glance – A content platform that brings personalized content to users’ lock screens.
- NoBroker – A real estate platform that eliminates brokerage fees.
- Yulu – A sustainable mobility solutions provider.
- Knowlarity – A cloud communications provider.
- Card91 – A fintech company focused on card issuance.
Additionally, some alumni were early employees at WhatsApp, contributing to the development of one of the world’s most popular messaging applications.
Leadership Roles in Global Organizations
Many alumni from this cohort have held or currently hold senior roles in renowned global organizations, including:
- Nvidia
- Microsoft
- Amazon
- Intel
- Boston Consulting Group (BCG)
- Morgan Stanley
- Government of Singapore Investment Corporation (GIC)
The Class of 2000 has produced three unicorns: InMobi, Glance, and NoBroker, marking it as the batch with the highest number of unicorns from IIT Kanpur to date.
Focus and Vision of MSTAS
The new school aims to foster interdisciplinary education and leadership development. It will emphasize understanding the broader implications of technology-driven change on society. Alumni involved in the initiative have described it as a long-term institution-building effort, aiming to create a significant impact on future generations of students.
Future Plans and Implementation
While the announcement has generated considerable excitement, the timeline and operational details for MSTAS are expected to be outlined by IIT Kanpur in the coming months. This will include specifics on the curriculum, faculty recruitment, and the overall structure of the new academic unit.
Conclusion
The establishment of the Millennium School of Technology and Society (MSTAS) is a landmark initiative that underscores the commitment of IIT Kanpur’s alumni to contribute to education and society. With a focus on technology’s role in shaping public policy and ethical considerations, this school is poised to become a significant player in the academic landscape of India.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest available data as of December 2025.
