Dallas, Texas, USA: Manoj Balraj, one of the five co-founders of Experion Technologies—a digital product engineering company with strong connections to Kerala—is bridging the worlds of technology and culture from a quiet Dallas street. His journey spans Bangalore, Kerala, and Texas, emphasising sustainable growth over rapid expansion.
Nearly 30 years after leaving his hometown of Bangalore, Balraj vividly remembers his father’s advice: “One day, you should create something of your own. Let your work generate more opportunities for others.” He credits this principle with guiding both his career and his leadership philosophy.
Balraj co-founded Experion Technologies with four partners. “We’ve been operating for 19 years. At the outset, we had to make a difficult decision—focus on one core area. We chose digital product engineering, building products that help clients generate revenue,” he explained.
Currently, Experion employs over 1,600 staff and has served more than 300 clients across the US, Europe, Australia, Japan, and India. Its work ranges from electric vehicle charging platforms for luxury car brands to onboarding software for thousands of nurses across 20 US states.
Focusing on Tier-Two Cities
The company intentionally established operations in tier-two Indian cities rather than major urban centres. “We committed to finding top talent, even if it took longer. Our goal was to develop high-quality products,” Balraj said.
This unconventional approach paid off. Major corporations sought their expertise. “We work with leading motorcycle and automobile manufacturers. We ideate, build, and deliver products that clients monetise, and we continue supporting them,” he said.
Healthcare projects have been equally significant. “A leading US home healthcare provider engaged us to create a platform for onboarding registered nurses. Thousands of nurses across 20 states use the system, which has also won awards for design and user experience,” Balraj added.
Finding the Right People
Scaling the business wasn’t without challenges. “It’s never easy. We have many employees, but the real struggle has always been finding people with the right mindset. Product development demands a unique way of thinking,” he acknowledged.
Instead of focusing on rapid hiring, Experion invested in rigorous training. “We don’t just want to grow in numbers; we want to grow in quality. Our programs last six months before new recruits work on live projects,” he said.
Balraj believes this investment builds confidence among young engineers. “After two or five years, they can sit in a video call with a client and explain why a technical decision could be improved. That confidence is invaluable,” he noted.
Kerala’s Support
Choosing Kerala as the company’s base has been strategic. “The state treats IT as essential, like milk or hospitals—no disruption to its growth,” Balraj said. He highlighted government support, from sponsoring delegations to global tech events to arranging meetings with international leaders.
Insights from the US Market
Balraj divides his time between Dallas and India, observing the American market closely. “Some US clients I’ve never met in person, yet after six or seven years, they trust us implicitly. That faith is remarkable,” he said.
But he cautions, “Competition is fierce. The best talent in the world is here, so you have to deliver consistently to succeed.”
Trade and Tariffs
Recent US tariffs on Indian imports have not heavily impacted Experion yet, though Balraj anticipates indirect effects. “Automotive clients may have tighter budgets next year, which could create ripple effects,” he explained. Fortunately, Experion’s focus on revenue-generating products shields it from major disruption.
Personal Roots
Balraj’s personal life reflects creativity and individuality. At 14, he combined letters from his parents’ names to form his surname, which is now official. His parents encouraged independence and allowed him freedom in academics and activities, fostering resilience and versatility.
Family Life
Now based in Texas, Balraj lives with his wife and two children—his son pursuing a master’s at UTB and his daughter studying at UT Austin.
Artistic Pursuits
Balraj’s interest in theatre and film began in school, leading to university-level plays and collaborations with filmmaker Shyamaprasad. He continues to engage in theatre in Dallas, even forming a dance troupe with friends for weddings and children’s events. “It’s about staying playful and shedding ego,” he said.
Observing Indian Cinema
A fan of Indian films, Balraj appreciates the rise of regional cinema in mainstream culture, particularly Malayalam films. He credits OTT platforms and changing trends for giving small-budget films a wider audience.
Settling in Dallas
Dallas became home almost serendipitously after guidance from a friend in Atlanta. With a thriving economy and tens of thousands of businesses, the city offered a fertile environment for Experion. Balraj also contributes to civic life, from Boy Scouts to local nonprofits.
Reflections on the Diaspora
Three decades in the US have given him perspective on the Indian diaspora. “Many under-the-radar individuals are running mid-sized organisations successfully. It’s inspiring,” he said, adding a wish for more cohesion among Indian Americans in Dallas and across the US.
Asked for advice for the next generation, Balraj humbly responded, “I’m learning from them. They are better human beings than I am.”
