Founder Magazine Team
In the culturally rich and historically vibrant city of Kolkata, a remarkable story of perseverance, vision, and leadership has unfolded over the past twenty years. Siddhartha Dikshit, the Managing Director of ILICO Services Limited, has emerged as a trailblazer in the world of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solutions, making a significant impact on the global software industry. Starting with just $1,000 in capital, Siddhartha has transformed his initial vision into a thriving enterprise with a group turnover of $25.8 million. This is the inspiring journey of a visionary who dared to dream grandly and succeeded in turning those dreams into a remarkable reality.
Early Life and Entrepreneurial Spirit
Born and raised in Kolkata, Siddhartha Dikshit was always fascinated by the world of business. From a young age, he exhibited a keen interest in the industrial sector, often visiting factories and industrial sites with a sense of wonder. Unlike many of his peers, Siddhartha never envisioned himself as an employee. Instead, he harbored a deep-seated desire to create something of his own—a company where he could channel his passion for technology and innovation.
Siddhartha’s academic journey began with a degree in Computer Science, which laid the foundation for his future endeavors. He further honed his business acumen by pursuing a Master’s degree in Business Administration. These educational pursuits were not just academic milestones; they were the stepping stones that led him to the path of entrepreneurship. Siddhartha was driven by an unwavering belief in his abilities and a relentless pursuit of excellence in his work.
The Inception of ILICO Services Limited
The year 2006 marked the official inception of ILICO Services Limited, a company that would go on to redefine the ERP landscape. Siddhartha started his entrepreneurial journey by participating in government tenders for supplying computer hardware, such as monitors, keyboards, and other peripherals. However, he quickly realized that his true passion lay in software development, particularly in the realm of ERP.
With a vision to provide customized ERP solutions that could cater to the unique needs of businesses across industries, Siddhartha shifted his focus from hardware to software. He was particularly drawn to the potential of ERP systems to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and drive growth for businesses. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in his entrepreneurial journey—a journey that would see the birth of ERP.BZ, a revolutionary ERP platform.
Building ERP.BZ: A Customized Solution for the Global Market
ERP.BZ was not just another software product; it was the embodiment of Siddhartha’s vision to create a dynamic, user-friendly, and highly customizable ERP solution. The platform was designed to address the specific challenges faced by industries, particularly in the manufacturing sector. With modules for inventory management, production planning, customer and supplier relationship management, payroll, and GST compliance, ERP.BZ quickly gained traction in the market.
One of the key factors that set ERP.BZ apart from its competitors was its ability to offer tailored solutions to clients. Unlike off-the-shelf ERP systems, which often require businesses to adapt their processes to fit the software, ERP.BZ was designed to be flexible and adaptable. This customization capability allowed clients to seamlessly integrate the software into their existing operations, resulting in higher efficiency and productivity.
As Siddhartha’s company grew, so did its impact on the market. ERP.BZ became a go-to solution for businesses ranging from startups to large enterprises. The software’s ability to solve complex problems with ease, coupled with its user-friendly interface, made it a preferred choice for companies looking to optimize their operations. Today, ERP.BZ is recognized globally as a leading ERP solution, thanks to Siddhartha’s relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence.
Overcoming Challenges and Learning from Experience
The journey to success was not without its challenges. As a first-generation IT professional venturing into the world of entrepreneurship, Siddhartha faced numerous hurdles. The decision to start a business in the IT sector was fraught with risks, especially in an environment where trust and reliability were paramount. However, Siddhartha’s deep understanding of business strategy and his unwavering commitment to ethical practices helped him navigate these challenges.
Building trust with clients was a critical aspect of Siddhartha’s success. He believed that honesty, loyalty, and transparency were the cornerstones of any successful business relationship. By personally engaging with clients, understanding their needs, and delivering on promises, Siddhartha was able to establish long-lasting relationships that formed the backbone of his business. He attributes much of his success to the support and trust of his clients, who played a crucial role in his journey from a fledgling entrepreneur to a successful business leader.
Siddhartha’s personal life also played a significant role in shaping his professional journey. One of his close friends, Ms. Rizwana Begum, an advocate in the Calcutta High Court, served as a constant source of inspiration and support during his early days in business. Her encouragement and moral support helped Siddhartha stay focused and motivated, even during the most challenging times.
Professional Ethics and the Road to Sustainable Growth
For Siddhartha, the essence of successful entrepreneurship lies in adhering to professional ethics and maintaining a strong sense of moral values. He believes that ethical conduct is not just a business necessity but a fundamental principle that should guide all professional interactions. By upholding these values, Siddhartha has been able to build a company that is not only successful but also respected in the industry.
Siddhartha also emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adaptation. Entrepreneurship, in his view, is a lifelong learning process that requires constant evolution and innovation. By staying attuned to market trends, understanding the needs of clients, and embracing new technologies, Siddhartha has ensured that ILICO Services Limited remains at the forefront of the ERP industry.
The Future of ERP.BZ: Embracing AI and Digital Transformation
Looking ahead, Siddhartha envisions a bright future for ERP.BZ, driven by the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies. He believes that the future of ERP lies in creating systems that are not only responsive to user commands but also capable of anticipating needs and delivering personalized solutions. By integrating AI into ERP.BZ, Siddhartha aims to enhance the platform’s ability to transform data with a single click, thereby boosting productivity and improving the user experience.
Siddhartha’s vision for the future also includes expanding the global reach of ERP.BZ and exploring new markets. With a strong foundation built on innovation, customer trust, and ethical business practices, he is confident that ILICO Services Limited will continue to grow and make a positive impact on the global business landscape.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
As someone who has successfully navigated the challenges of entrepreneurship, Siddhartha has valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. He advocates for a balanced approach to business—one that prioritizes steady, sustainable growth over quick, short-term gains. “Slow but steady wins the race,” he says, emphasizing the importance of patience, careful planning, and consistency in the entrepreneurial journey.
Siddhartha also underscores the importance of balancing professional ambitions with personal well-being. He believes that a happy and prosperous personal life is essential for long-term success in business. By maintaining this balance, entrepreneurs can ensure that they remain focused, motivated, and resilient in the face of challenges.
Recognitions and Awards
Siddhartha’s contributions to the industry have not gone unnoticed. Over the years, he has received several prestigious awards, including the Bharat Joti in 2012 and the Bharat Nirman Ratna in the same year. Most recently, in 2024, he was honored with the Blindwink India Business Award 2024, a testament to his leadership and the success of ILICO Services Limited.
Mr. Siddhartha Dikshit (Managing Director) receiving Blindwink India Business Awards 2024 by Bollywood Actress Amrita Rao for India’s Most Innovative Complete Business Management Software Providers 2024 – ERP.BZ By ILICO SERVICES LTD
Connect with Mr. Siddhartha Dikshit
Website: https://erp.bz
https://www.instagram.com/siddharthavtpl
https://www.facebook.com/sc.dikshit
