Asian business schools have consistently nurtured some of the world’s most innovative and resilient entrepreneurs. With their rigorous curricula, extensive networks, and a focus on emerging markets, these institutions provide the perfect ecosystem for ambitious minds. Here, we spotlight several successful entrepreneurs who have made a mark globally after graduating from top Asian business schools.

1. Ankur Warikoo – Founder of Nearbuy

Alma Mater: Indian School of Business (ISB), India

About Nearbuy
Nearbuy is a leading online discovery and deals platform in India, offering discounts on dining, spas, travel, and more. Launched in 2015, it quickly became a household name for its innovative approach to local commerce.

Journey to Success
After completing his MBA at ISB, Ankur Warikoo ventured into entrepreneurship with a clear understanding of India’s burgeoning e-commerce market. His time at ISB equipped him with strategic insights and a robust network that played a critical role in scaling Nearbuy.

Key Takeaways from ISB

• The curriculum emphasized leadership and strategic thinking, which helped Warikoo make critical business decisions.
• The strong alumni network provided mentorship and funding opportunities.

2. Piyush Gupta – CEO of DBS Group

Alma Mater: NUS Business School, Singapore

About DBS Group
DBS Group, headquartered in Singapore, is one of the largest banks in Asia, known for its digital transformation and customer-centric approach.

Journey to Success
Piyush Gupta has been instrumental in driving DBS Group’s growth, particularly in the areas of fintech and digital banking. Under his leadership, DBS has won numerous accolades, including “World’s Best Bank” by Euromoney.

Key Takeaways from NUS

• Gupta credits NUS for instilling a global business perspective and analytical skills that helped him navigate the complexities of the banking industry.
• The school's strategic location in Singapore provided access to the region’s top financial institutions.

3. Maggie Wu – Former CFO of Alibaba Group

Alma Mater: CEIBS, China

About Alibaba
Alibaba is one of the world’s largest e-commerce and technology conglomerates, founded by Jack Ma. Maggie Wu played a pivotal role in the company’s financial management and IPO on the New York Stock Exchange, one of the largest in history.

Journey to Success
Maggie Wu joined Alibaba in 2007 and rose to become the CFO, where she oversaw the company’s financial strategies and expansions. Her experience at CEIBS gave her a deep understanding of both Western and Chinese business practices, which was crucial in Alibaba’s global expansion.

Key Takeaways from CEIBS

• The curriculum's emphasis on global and local market dynamics prepared Wu to operate in a dual economic environment.
• CEIBS’ strong industry ties helped her build a robust professional network.

4. Ho Kwon Ping – Founder of Banyan Tree Holdings

Alma Mater: NUS Business School, Singapore

About Banyan Tree Holdings
Banyan Tree Holdings is a leading global developer and operator of premium resorts, hotels, and spas. Known for its focus on sustainability and luxury, the brand has a presence in over 28 countries.

Journey to Success
Ho Kwon Ping founded Banyan Tree in 1994, transforming it into a global luxury brand. His education at NUS provided him with the business acumen and leadership skills to build a brand that merges profitability with sustainability.

Key Takeaways from NUS

• Ho credits his time at NUS for nurturing his entrepreneurial spirit and providing a solid foundation in business management.
• NUS’s focus on innovation and sustainability deeply influenced his business philosophy.

5. Hari Menon – Co-founder and CEO of BigBasket

Alma Mater: Indian School of Business (ISB), India

About BigBasket
BigBasket is India’s largest online grocery store, offering a wide range of household essentials and fresh produce. The platform revolutionized grocery shopping in India with its convenient and efficient service model.

Journey to Success
Hari Menon co-founded BigBasket in 2011, identifying a gap in India’s retail market. His time at ISB played a crucial role in shaping his entrepreneurial journey, providing insights into market dynamics and consumer behavior.

Key Takeaways from ISB

• ISB’s emphasis on technology and innovation helped Menon design BigBasket’s scalable and tech-driven model.
• The extensive alumni network provided access to investors and business mentors.

6. Anthony Tan – Co-founder and CEO of Grab

Alma Mater: INSEAD Asia Campus, Singapore

About Grab
Grab is Southeast Asia’s leading super app, offering services ranging from ride-hailing to food delivery and financial services. Founded in 2012, it has transformed urban mobility and digital finance in the region.

Journey to Success
Anthony Tan co-founded Grab as a response to inefficiencies in Southeast Asia’s transportation system. His experience at INSEAD provided the entrepreneurial mindset and strategic vision needed to scale the business across multiple countries.

Key Takeaways from INSEAD

• INSEAD’s focus on leadership and global business prepared Tan to manage cross-border operations.
• The school’s entrepreneurial ecosystem encouraged Tan to turn his ideas into a viable business model.

7. Richard Liu – Founder of JD.com

Alma Mater: CEIBS, China

About JD.com
JD.com is a leading e-commerce platform in China, known for its extensive logistics network and innovative technology. It competes closely with Alibaba, providing high-quality products and services to millions of consumers.

Journey to Success
Richard Liu founded JD.com in 1998, starting as a brick-and-mortar electronics store. After completing his studies at CEIBS, he transformed the business into one of the largest e-commerce platforms globally.

Key Takeaways from CEIBS

• Liu credits CEIBS for enhancing his understanding of supply chain management and digital transformation.
• The school’s case-study approach helped him tackle real-world business challenges effectively.

Why Asian Business Schools Foster Entrepreneurial Success

1. Focus on Emerging Markets
Asian business schools emphasize the unique challenges and opportunities of emerging markets, providing students with insights into high-growth economies.

2. Strong Industry Connections
Top institutions maintain close ties with industries, offering students internships, mentorships, and networking opportunities critical for entrepreneurial success.

3. Global Perspective with Local Insights
These schools blend global business practices with local market knowledge, enabling graduates to operate effectively in diverse environments.

4. Entrepreneurial Ecosystems
With incubators, accelerators, and innovation hubs, Asian business schools provide the necessary resources for students to test and launch their ventures.

Conclusion

The success stories of Ankur Warikoo, Piyush Gupta, Maggie Wu, and others underscore the pivotal role of Asian business schools in shaping global business leaders. These institutions not only provide world-class education but also foster a culture of innovation and resilience.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, studying at a top Asian business school can be a transformative experience, offering the skills, network, and vision needed to turn ideas into successful enterprises.