TiE, a not-for-profit global network of entrepreneurs and professionals, was founded in 1992 in Silicon Valley, California, USA. Although its birth name, The Indus Entrepreneurs, signifies the ethnic South Asian or Indus roots of the founders, TiE stands for Talent, Ideas and Enterprise. It is an open and inclusive organization that has rapidly grown to more than forty chapters in nine countries. TiE endeavors to cultivate and nurture the ecosystems of entrepreneurship and free-market economies everywhere, as it sees this to be the single most powerful instrument of prosperity.

Membership fees, event fees, and contributions from sponsors financially support TiE. These sponsors, some of the biggest names among corporations and service providers (venture capital, law, accounting, and consulting), also participate in designing and conducting various programs for TiE members. Elected officials and other volunteers conduct most of the TiE operations and activities.

The membership structure of TiE includes Charter Members, who are invited based on their accomplishments and willingness to help the next generation of entrepreneurs. The general membership of TiE is open to anyone who pays nominal dues and can thus access the various activities and services, including mentoring by Charter Members.

TiE Philosophy

To:
• Create an open, inclusive, and transparent organization
• Provide positive leadership role models
• Emphasize value-creation through informed entrepreneurship
• Maintain high ethical standards
• Display rigorous, intellectually honest behavior
• Pursue a modern, scientific and forward looking approach
• Remain socially responsible
• Do not tolerate pettiness, divisiveness and corruption
• Strive to remain an idea and value-driven organization

TiE respects religious, ethnic and political diversity, and expects the same from its members. TiE does not have any political or religious affiliations. The values and beliefs of TiE reflect the culture and value system of the Silicon Valley: entrepreneurship and wealth creation are invaluable human endeavors, and successful entrepreneurs find fulfillment in helping budding entrepreneurs.