Biography of Milind Datar: Founder and CEO of Canebot- Indian Entrepreneur
Biography of Milind Datar:
Early Beginnings and Education
Milind Datar's professional journey began with a solid
educational foundation. He pursued a Bachelor of Science in Physics from The
Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, which set the stage for his analytical
and problem-solving skills. Following this, he earned a Master’s in Social Work
with a focus on Human Resource Management from the same university. His
academic quest didn’t stop there; Milind furthered his expertise through
multiple specialized diplomas in Psychological Counseling, Training &
Development, and Industrial Relations & Personnel Management. These qualifications
provided him with a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and
organizational dynamics, crucial for his future endeavors.
Building a Strong HR Career
Milind’s career in Human Resources began with significant
roles in the IT sector. He worked with various renowned companies, accumulating
over 15 years of experience. His roles spanned from strategic positions to
operations management, giving him a broad perspective on managing employee life
cycles. His expertise included everything from recruitment and talent
management to performance evaluation and employee engagement. This diverse
experience shaped him into a seasoned HR professional with a deep understanding
of corporate dynamics and human potential.
Leadership in Corporate HR
In 2011, Milind took on a pivotal role as Director of HR at
Entercoms Solutions Pvt. Ltd. Here, he was responsible for overseeing global HR
activities across three delivery centers located in India and the US. His
responsibilities included developing HR programs, shaping compensation
strategies, and implementing talent management processes. His strategic input
was vital in aligning HR practices with business goals, enhancing employee
engagement, and driving overall organizational success. Milind’s role was
instrumental in establishing a strong HR framework that supported the company’s
global operations.
Venturing into Training and Consulting
Milind’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Circles
of Influence, a corporate training and consulting firm. This venture allowed
him to leverage his extensive HR background and offer specialized services in
talent management, organizational development, and training. Through Circles of
Influence, Milind provided valuable insights and solutions to various
organizations, helping them enhance their HR practices and employee development
strategies. His role as a consultant and trainer further solidified his
reputation as an expert in the field.
A Leap into the Unknown
In 2012, Milind and Kirty Datar, both seasoned professionals
in the IT industry, took a significant leap by leaving their secure corporate
jobs to start something entirely different. They embarked on an entrepreneurial
journey driven by a vision to transform the sugarcane juice market in India,
which they believed had untapped potential. The idea was to revitalize a
traditional beverage and make it a popular choice for health-conscious
consumers.
Inspiration from the Corporate World
During their years in the IT sector, Milind observed that
while fancy coffee shops thrived, simple juice counters, especially those
serving sugarcane juice, were often neglected. He noticed that sugarcane juice
was perceived as seasonal and unclean, which deterred people from choosing it
over other beverages. This gap in the market sparked an idea that would later
shape their business venture.
The Birth of Canebot
In 2010, Milind's idea began to take shape. He discussed it
with Kirty, and they decided to pursue it seriously. After extensive research,
they realized that the primary issues with sugarcane juice were hygiene and the
outdated methods used for extracting it. This led them to the development of
Canebot, a startup dedicated to providing fresh, hygienic sugarcane juice using
innovative technology.
Biography of Milind Datar: Founder and CEO of Canebot- Indian Entrepreneur/ Startup/sugarcane juicing/Age/Net worth/Wife/Canebot story/Milind Datar
Designing a Revolutionary Machine
Milind and Kirty focused on creating a new type of sugarcane
juicing machine that addressed the problems they identified. Their machine was
designed to crush sugarcane efficiently, ensuring high juice extraction with
minimal manual effort. It featured a food-grade stainless steel construction to
prevent contamination and included IoT technology to monitor juice production.
Overcoming Challenges
The journey was not without its obstacles. The COVID-19
pandemic brought their operations to a halt as their outlets, primarily located
in IT companies, were forced to close. This unexpected challenge required them
to rethink their business strategy and adapt to the new circumstances.
Innovative Solutions During a Crisis
Determined to continue their mission, Milind and Kirty
explored alternative ways to deliver their product. They decided to blend
sugarcane juice with raw mango juice to create a preservative-free drink that
could be bottled and sold. This innovation resulted in the creation of Ganna
Panna, a new product that combined the freshness of sugarcane juice with the
tangy taste of mango.
Pivoting to E-Commerce
With their traditional outlets closed, the couple turned to
e-commerce to reach their customers. They began selling their new products
online, including Ganna Panna and immunity shots made with turmeric and black
pepper. This shift allowed them to maintain their business operations and reach
a broader audience during the pandemic.
Building a Strong Market Presence
Despite the challenges, Milind and Kirty's efforts paid off.
Their products gained traction in the Pune and Mumbai markets, leading to a
significant increase in sales. They successfully created a brand that resonated
with health-conscious consumers looking for natural and preservative-free
beverages.
Navigating the Toughest Times
The Datars' journey was marked by perseverance and
adaptability. They faced numerous challenges, from the initial difficulties of
setting up their business to the disruptions caused by the pandemic. Yet, they
remained committed to their vision and found innovative ways to keep their
business afloat.
Establishing a Unique Business Model
Canebot evolved from a simple juice kiosk concept to a
comprehensive beverage solution. The company developed a fully automatic,
unmanned, cashless vending machine that dispenses fresh sugarcane juice. This
innovative solution, which has received a patent, represents a significant leap
in the beverage industry.
Recognition and Growth
Their unique business model and innovative approach caught
the attention of several prestigious organizations. Canebot was incubated by
NSRCEL at IIM-Bangalore and became a part of the Atal Innovation Mission 'AIM
Catalysts' under Niti Ayog. This recognition provided valuable support and
validation for their venture.
The Impact of Shark Tank India
Milind and Kirty's appearance on Shark Tank India was a
pivotal moment for their business. They received valuable feedback and
entrepreneurial advice that helped them refine their strategy and approach. The
experience reaffirmed their commitment to their mission and provided them with
new insights to drive their business forward.
Expanding Their Reach
With their patented vending machines and a successful range
of bottled products, Canebot is poised for further expansion. The company aims
to install its vending kiosks in high-traffic areas like airports and
hospitals, making fresh sugarcane juice more accessible to a wider audience.
The Power of Innovation
The Datars' story is a testament to the power of innovation
and perseverance. By combining their IT backgrounds with a passion for
transforming a traditional beverage, they created a brand that is redefining
the sugarcane juice market. Their journey highlights the importance of
addressing market gaps with creative solutions and a commitment to quality.
From Corporate Jobs to Entrepreneurial Success
Milind and Kirty's transition from corporate professionals
to entrepreneurs showcases their willingness to take risks and embrace change.
Their journey from working in IT to creating a successful beverage brand
demonstrates the potential for success when following one's passion and addressing
real-world problems.
The Future of Canebot
As Canebot continues to grow and innovate, the Datars remain
focused on their mission of making sugarcane juice a popular and accessible
beverage. Their dedication to quality, hygiene, and customer satisfaction sets
them apart in the competitive market, and they are well-positioned for
continued success.
A Vision for a Healthier Future
Milind and Kirty Datar's story is not just about building a
business but also about promoting a healthier lifestyle through their products.
By providing fresh, preservative-free beverages, they are contributing to the
well-being of their customers and supporting the agricultural community. Their
vision extends beyond their company, aiming to make a positive impact on
society.
A Vision for the Future
Milind’s journey reflects a deep commitment to blending
technology with traditional practices to drive positive change. His work with
CaneBOT represents not just an entrepreneurial achievement but also a vision to
transform the beverage industry through innovation. By continuously researching
and incorporating new technologies, Milind aims to make sugarcane juice a lifestyle
choice, demonstrating his dedication to both technological advancement and
cultural revival. His career trajectory showcases a blend of strategic HR
expertise and entrepreneurial innovation, marking a unique path in the business
world.
A timeline for Milind Datar’s journey:
Early 2000s: Completes BE in Physics and Master’s in Social
Work, and multiple HR-related diplomas.
2000s-2010: Gains HR experience in various IT companies.
2011: Becomes Director of HR at Entercoms Solutions Pvt.
Ltd.
2010-2012: Develops and co-founds Canebot with Kirty Datar.
2012: Launches Canebot, focusing on innovative sugarcane
juicing technology.
2017: Creates new products and pivots to e-commerce due to
COVID-19.
2017: Canebot’s vending machine technology is patented.
2021: Canebot is incubated by NSRCEL at IIM-Bangalore and
joins AIM Catalysts.
2021: Appears on Shark Tank India, gaining valuable support.
Ongoing: Expands Canebot’s market presence with new vending
machines and product
