Kolkata’s digital transformation journey has received another major boost.
US-based global digital business transformation company Publicis Sapient has announced plans to explore joint ventures with Bengal-based startups to accelerate AI-led innovation and strengthen the state’s growing Global Capability Centre (GCC) ecosystem.
The company recently opened its first office in Eastern India in Kolkata, marking a strategic expansion into the region. With this addition, Publicis Sapient now operates from eight offices across India, positioning Kolkata as the hub of its eastern operations.
Speaking on the company’s roadmap, Sanjay Menon, Managing Director and Executive Vice President (India), highlighted that Artificial Intelligence and GCCs are currently witnessing strong demand across private enterprises, including multinational corporations operating in Kolkata. The company is actively looking at collaborating with local startups to implement scalable AI-driven business models while enabling these startups to expand through Publicis Sapient’s global client network.
“Our focus remains on building and evolving AI platforms that deliver sustained enterprise value,” Menon stated, underlining the company’s long-term commitment to digital transformation.
The move signals significant opportunity for Bengal’s startup ecosystem. Joint ventures with a global player like Publicis Sapient can provide startups with access to international markets, enterprise-grade projects, and technological expertise.
Looking ahead, the company is also scouting expansion opportunities within the state and may consider setting up a facility at Bengal Silicon Valley in the future — a development that would further strengthen Kolkata’s position as a rising technology and innovation hub.
With multinational presence growing and the talent pool expanding, Kolkata is steadily emerging as a serious contender in India’s digital economy landscape.