July - 2002 issue > Inbox

TiE Khumb Mela

In view of the recent TiE annual event, I would like to bring out to your readers my experience at TiECon of last year for which I made my trip from Florida. I had gone through two successful startups before. We had a working prototype of a product and I was looking to tap into the TiE network. I contacted 20 charter members through email. I received only a few replies. I only got one member to meet with me who did not even show at the meeting place. That's as far as I got at TiE.

Overall, TiE is just like any other old-boys network. It is who you know at the top that matters. These people wanted some recognition from their Indian peers and some sort of worthiness. Not about all the grand mission statements it puts out.

In the end, what is TiE? Is it an Incubator, Angel group, VC gateway or what? I have yet to look for success stories, even the link on success stories comes up blank. I am not doubting the success and achievements of individuals who make up TiE. They have made their mark on their profession and endeavors.

Every group has every right to do and preach what they want. I would like your readers not to fall for some organization which are long on their publicity and short on their proclaimed mission.

Jyoti Das, Founder and CEO