Vijay Shekhar Sharma is a seminal Indian technology innovator and entrepreneur, globally known as the Founder and CEO of Paytm and its parent company, One97 Communications. He is credited with leading India’s shift toward a mobile-first economy and pioneering innovations such as QR code-based payments, Soundbox, and card machines that redefined the transaction landscape in the country.
Sharma's journey is a powerful demonstration of entrepreneurial grit. Born in a small town, he enrolled in college at 15 and graduated from Delhi College of Engineering at 19. While still in college, he started the website indiasite.net, selling it two years later for $1 million. In 2000, he founded One97 Communications, which evolved into Paytm in 2010. The company's 2021 IPO raised $2.5 billion at a $19 billion valuation, making it India's largest initial public offering at the time.
A firm believer in the power of emerging technologies, Vijay has been at the forefront of India's Artificial Intelligence revolution, driving advancements that enhance financial inclusion and strengthen digital infrastructure. He is also a prolific angel investor, supporting over 200 startups and reinforcing India’s position as a global leader in digital advancements. His achievements include being named the Youngest Indian Billionaire by Forbes and being featured in the Time 100 list in 2017.
As a highly sought-after speaker, the former ET Entrepreneur of the Year provides audiences with a blend of inspirational storytelling and practical, strategic insights on how to build a high-growth, disruptive tech venture. He is also a committed social advocate, serving as the UN Environment's 'Patron for Clean Air', helping to drive environmental action and awareness through the global Breathe Life campaign.
