Biography of Ankit Agarwal: Founder and CEO of Phool.co- Entrepreneur
Ankit Agarwal: Transforming Temple Flowers into Sustainable Innovations
A Journey Begins in Kanpur
Ankit Agarwal’s story begins in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, where
he grew up with a strong sense of purpose and a keen interest in technology and
innovation. His educational journey started at local schools such as Woodbine
Gardenia School and Seth Anandram Jaipuria School, eventually leading him to
Dr. Virendra Swarup Education Center. It was here that he began to explore his
potential and develop a foundation for his future career.
Academic Pursuits in Engineering and Innovation
Ankit’s academic ambitions led him to Pune Institute of
Computer Technology, where he earned an engineering degree in Information
Technology. His drive for innovation did not stop there; he pursued further
studies at Symbiosis International University, completing a Post Graduation in
Innovation and Corporate Entrepreneurship. These academic experiences equipped
him with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle complex problems and
drive change.
Entering the Professional Realm
After completing his engineering degree, Ankit embarked on
his professional journey with an internship at Symantec, where he gained
valuable insights into automation engineering. This was followed by a role as a
Research Engineer at Uniken Inc., where he honed his research skills. His
tenure at Symantec as an Automation Engineer solidified his technical expertise
and prepared him for future entrepreneurial ventures.
Founding oikos International
In 2013, Ankit’s leadership potential was recognized when he
became the Founder President of the Pune Chapter of oikos International. His
role involved shaping global strategies, fundraising, and overseeing Central
and Eastern European chapters. This position not only demonstrated his ability
to lead but also his commitment to social and environmental causes.
Early Career Insights
Before his entrepreneurial journey, Ankit worked in various technical roles, including as a Project Intern and Automation Engineer at Symantec. These positions provided him with a solid technical foundation and problem-solving skills that would later inform his approach to business and innovation.
The Birth of Phool
The inception of Phool.co was driven by a simple yet profound idea: to recycle temple flowers that were otherwise polluting the Ganges. Co-founded with Prateek Kumar, the company has grown to offer a range of products that contribute to environmental sustainability and provide economic opportunities for women.
A New Chapter with Phool.co
The turning point in Ankit’s career came in 2017 with the
founding of Phool.co, a groundbreaking enterprise dedicated to transforming
temple flowers into eco-friendly products. Phool.co addresses two major issues:
the environmental impact of flower waste in the Ganges River and the economic
empowerment of underrepresented women. Through innovative processes, the
company converts discarded temple flowers into incense sticks, essential oils,
soaps, and even a leather-like material called Fleather.
From Flowers to Fleather
Phool.co’s approach to sustainability includes the creation
of Fleather, an alternative to traditional leather made from recycled flower
waste. This product not only offers a sustainable alternative to leather but
also highlights Phool’s commitment to reducing environmental impact while
providing employment opportunities to marginalized communities.
Recognizing the Impact
The work done by Phool.co has not gone unnoticed. Ankit’s
efforts have earned him recognition as a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree and various
awards such as the UN Global Climate Action Award and the Fast Company
World-Changing Idea Award. These accolades underscore his significant
contributions to sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
Expanding Global Reach
In addition to local success, Phool.co has attracted
international attention and investment. The company secured funding from
prominent organizations including Social Alpha and Draper Richards Kaplan
Foundation. Plans for international expansion, including potential ventures in
Germany and Switzerland, reflect Phool’s growing influence and impact on a
global scale.
Biography of Ankit Agarwal: Founder and CEO of Phool.co- Entrepreneur/ Startup/Success story of Ankit Agarwal/Age/Net worth/Wife/Fleather/leather
Leading with Vision
Ankit’s leadership extends beyond Phool.co. He is an Acumen
Fellow and an Asia 21 Young Leader, roles that allow him to collaborate with
other change-makers and address global challenges. His involvement with these
organizations demonstrates his commitment to fostering innovation and social
change on a broader platform.
Contributions to oikos Foundation
During his time with oikos Foundation, Ankit worked on global strategy and fundraising, and managed the Central and Eastern European chapters. His contributions helped shape the foundation’s direction and amplify its impact in promoting sustainability and social entrepreneurship.
Sustainable Innovations
Phool.co’s product line includes charcoal-free incense
sticks, essential oils, and organic soaps. Each product is a testament to the
company’s dedication to sustainability and its innovative approach to using
discarded flowers for meaningful purposes.
Empowering Women
A core aspect of Phool.co’s mission is to empower women from
underrepresented communities. By providing employment opportunities, the
company supports the economic independence of its workers and contributes to
their personal and professional growth.
Recognition and Awards
Ankit’s innovative work with Phool.co has garnered numerous
awards, including the Spirit of Manufacturing Award and the PETA India Award.
These accolades highlight his dedication to creating sustainable solutions and
making a positive impact on both the environment and society.
Expansion and Investment
Phool.co’s success has led to significant investments,
including a notable funding round in 2020. The company’s plans to expand
internationally and its association with high-profile investors such as
Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt reflect its growing reputation and potential for
global impact.
A Vision for the Future
Ankit’s vision for the future involves expanding Phool.co’s
reach and continuing to develop innovative products that address environmental
and social issues. His dedication to sustainability and entrepreneurship
remains at the heart of his endeavors, driving him to explore new opportunities
for impact.
Balancing Innovation with Tradition
Ankit Agarwal’s journey is a blend of honoring traditional
practices and pushing the boundaries of innovation. By transforming temple
flowers into eco-friendly products, he bridges the gap between cultural
practices and modern sustainability efforts.
Personal and Professional Growth
Ankit’s achievements are not only professional but also
deeply personal. His journey from a young student in Kanpur to a recognized
global leader in sustainability reflects his growth and commitment to making a
difference in the world.
A Legacy of Change
Ankit Agarwal’s story is one of transformation, innovation,
and leadership. Through Phool.co and his various roles, he continues to inspire
others with his vision for a more sustainable and equitable future. His work
exemplifies the power of entrepreneurship to address pressing global challenges
and create lasting positive change.
Timeline for Ankit Agarwal’s story
Early Education in Kanpur – Attends Woodbine Gardenia
School, Seth Anandram Jaipuria School, and Dr. Virendra Swarup Education
Center.
Pune Institute of Computer Technology – Earns engineering
degree in Information Technology.
Symbiosis International University – Completes Post
Graduation in Innovation and Corporate Entrepreneurship.
Internship at Symantec – Gains experience in automation
engineering.
Research Engineer at Uniken Inc. – Enhances research skills
and technical expertise.
2013 – Becomes Founder President of the Pune Chapter of oikos International.
2017 – Founds Phool.co to recycle temple flowers into
eco-friendly products.
2020 Funding Round – Secures significant investments and plans for international growth.
Creation of Fleather – Develops an alternative to
traditional leather from flower waste.
Recognition – Earns Forbes 30 Under 30, UN Global Climate
Action Award, and Fast Company World-Changing Idea Award.
International Expansion – Secures funding and plans for
expansion into Germany and Switzerland.
Acumen Fellow and Asia 21 Young Leader – Engages with global
change-makers and leaders.
Contributions to oikos Foundation – Manages global
strategies and fundraising.
Awards – Receives Spirit of Manufacturing Award and PETA
India Award.
