Motive, a San Francisco-based AI-powered fleet management startup, has announced plans to significantly expand its operations in India. Over the next two years, the company aims to hire more than 300 engineers, product managers, and designers for its Bengaluru development center. This move will more than double its current India headcount, which stands at approximately 250 employees2.
Why India?
India has become a strategic hub for AI talent, with Bengaluru emerging as a hotspot for innovation. According to Motive’s CEO, Shoaib Makani, the AI talent density in Bengaluru rivals that of Silicon Valley, making it a critical location for the company’s global growth strategy. The expansion aligns with Motive’s vision to leverage India’s exceptional engineering talent to develop cutting-edge AI solutions for industries like transportation, construction, and energy3.
Focus Areas
Motive’s India team will play a pivotal role in:
- AI Research and Development: Building foundational AI models tailored to diverse datasets.
- Product Innovation: Developing advanced tools like AI-powered collision detection systems and fleet management solutions.
- Global Expansion: Supporting the company’s plans to enter new markets, including Europe3.
Commitment to Talent Development
Motive is not just hiring; it’s investing in the future of AI talent in India. The company has partnered with premier institutions like IITs to acquire talent through internship programs. It is also actively recruiting senior leaders to drive its R&D initiatives3.
A Broader Trend
Motive’s expansion is part of a larger trend of AI unicorns and tech giants like Meta and Microsoft deepening their presence in India. The country’s growing pool of skilled AI professionals is attracting global companies looking to accelerate innovation and product cycles.
This strategic move underscores Motive’s commitment to innovation and its belief in India as a long-term destination for AI and technology talent. With its ambitious hiring plans, Motive is set to make a significant impact on the AI landscape, both in India and globally.