Recognize Partners Fund II Closes at $1.7 Billion

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  Fund II advances Recognize’s strategy of accelerating the growth of next-generation Digital Services companies seeking to deliver transformative solutions

• Strong participation from existing LPs and significant demand from new blue-chip investors

• Oversubscribed fund reached its hard cap in under five months 

Recognize, a proven investor in and builder of next-generation Digital Services companies, today announced the final close of its second fund, Recognize Partners II/II-A, L.P. (“Recognize II”), with over $1.7 billion in total commitments. Co-founded by Managing Partners Francisco D’Souza, Charles Phillips, and David Wasserman, Recognize has quickly established itself as a notable investor-operator and trusted partner to digital services innovators.

 

Recognize seeks to back visionary founders and management teams who are building differentiated businesses that leverage AI, software, and digital platforms to deliver transformative outcomes to enterprises. With Recognize II, the firm continues to focus on investing in companies with enterprise values between approximately $50 million and $500 million – businesses that Recognize believes offer strong potential for accelerated growth with the support of Recognize’s partnership-driven value creation approach.

 

Recognize II was oversubscribed and closed less than five months from launch, with strong support from existing investors, including a significant GP commitment, and a curated group of new investors. The LP base includes leading global institutions such as endowments, foundations, pensions, insurers, family offices, outsourced CIOs and fund-of-funds across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Latin America.

 

Over the last six months, Recognize has made four new platform investments: SDG Corporation (cybersecurity services), Sprout (Digital Infrastructure Services), TRANZACT (insurance services), and HealthEdge (SaaS for healthcare payers).

 

The firm also completed two realization events earlier this year: the exit of AST, sold to IBM (NYSE:IBM), and a partial exit of 2X through a strategic investment by Insight Partners. In 2024, Recognize also sold Torc, an AI-powered talent platform, to a subsidiary of Randstad (AMS:RAND). These realizations, in Recognize’s view, further reinforce the firm’s thesis that next-generation Digital Services firms are increasingly attractive to strategic buyers.

 

“We are incredibly grateful for the continued support of our partners,” said Debbie Park Munfa, Partner and Head of Investor Relations at Recognize. “We remain focused on building Digital Services businesses for the future and partnering with excellent management teams to deliver long-term value for our investors.”

 

Recognize was advised on the fundraise by Rede Partners Americas LLC, with Goodwin Procter LLP serving as legal and tax counsel.

 

About Recognize 

Recognize is a distinguished investor and business builder focused on next-generation Digital Services companies. Headquartered in New York, the firm seeks to back visionary founders, entrepreneurs, and management teams who are building innovative businesses that leverage AI, software, and digital platforms to deliver transformative outcomes to enterprises. Recognize provides deep operational expertise, industry relationships, and strategic capital to drive accelerated growth of these specialized businesses. To learn more, visit www.recognize.com. 

"Innovation is the Key to a Self-Reliant India," says Karnataka Governor at National Innovation Movement Launch

"In today's fiercely competitive global environment, innovation is the only path that can lead India towards self-reliance and global leadership," said Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Hon'ble Governor of Karnataka. He was addressing the gathering at "Innovasthan – A Vichar to Vikas Yatra", a national campaign focused on fostering innovation, intellectual property (IP), and enterprise-led growth. The event was jointly organized by the Council for Industrial Innovation & Research and Jain (Deemed-to-be) University in Bengaluru.

Highlighting India's rich heritage of innovation, the Governor stated, "India has always been a land of ideas. From the ancient universities of Takshashila and Nalanda to medical pioneers like Charaka and Sushruta, and mathematical legends like Aryabhata – innovation lies at the heart of our civilization. Today, it's not just about thinking; it's about transforming ideas into impactful reality."

He noted India's remarkable rise in the Global Innovation Index, moving from 81st position in 2015 to 40th in 2023, and emphasized that innovation in India must expand beyond laboratories to influence policy, education, industry, and society at large.

"To become a global innovation leader, India must bring together its higher education institutions, startups, MSMEs, corporate sector, and policy bodies onto a common platform," he said. "Coordination and collective commitment must make innovation a national mission."

The Governor also stressed the growing potential in India's startup ecosystem. "With over one lakh startups and 110 unicorns, India is now the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world. However, only a fraction of these are protected by intellectual property rights. This gap must be bridged through greater awareness and institutional support for IP protection," he said.

Referencing the Patent Annual Report 2022–23, he lauded Karnataka for filing over 6,500 patent applications but urged stakeholders to further accelerate these efforts, especially within higher education, MSMEs, and startups.

"Innovation is being encouraged at every level—schools, colleges, universities, industries. The government is also supporting this with the National Intellectual Property Policy. Our universities must be encouraged to establish IP centres and adopt frameworks to manage and commercialize intellectual property," he said.

Calling for a mindset of "Innovate – Protect – Scale," the Governor highlighted the significance of national initiatives like Startup India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, Innovation Mission, and Make in India in nurturing innovation ecosystems. "An idea, a tool, a device, or an app that improves lives is more than just technology—it is development in action," he added.

Praising Bengaluru as a hub of technology, education, and cultural vibrancy, he commended Jain (Deemed-to-be) University for its contribution to the city's emergence as a premier education centre.

The Governor also described "Innovasthan" as a movement aligned with the vision of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to build a self-reliant and innovation-driven India. "This national journey of thought and development—Vichar to Vikas Yatra—aims to institutionalize innovation across higher education, industry, and startups. It envisions a nation where every citizen can be an innovator, and every idea can create impact," he concluded.

The event witnessed the presence of several prominent dignitaries including Dr. Chenraj Raichand Jain, Chancellor, Jain Deemed-to-be University; Dr. Shweta Singh, Chairperson, Council for Industrial Innovation and Research; Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, President, Indian National Science Academy; and Prof. T.G. Sitaram, Chairman, All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), among others.

Marriott International Inks Deal with Vardhman Amrante to Debut Westin Hotels & Resorts in Ludhiana

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  Anticipated to open in 2030, The Westin Ludhiana will introduce endless opportunities for guests to relax and recharge

 

Marriott International, Inc. today announced the signing of an agreement with Vardhman Amrante (An Oswal Group Venture) to bring Westin Hotels & Resorts to Ludhiana. Scheduled to open in the last quarter of 2030.  The Westin Ludhiana is expected to feature 200 keys and will be part of a dynamic mixed-use development that includes retail spaces, a multiplex, and a gaming zone. The bustling city of Ludhiana, renowned as a vibrant hub of commerce and culture, offers the ideal backdrop for the debut of the Westin brand — one that places a strong emphasis on well-being and is thoughtfully designed to inspire guests, promote rejuvenation, and support wellness routines while on the move.

 

On the signing occasion, Ranju Alex, Regional Vice President – South Asia, Marriott International commented- “Through this strategic collaboration with Vardhman Amrante we aim to redefine excellence in guest service while unlocking growth opportunities in Ludhiana. With its signature programming, The Westin Ludhiana will bring to life the brand’s promise of empowering guests to be the best version of themselves, maintaining their well-being even as they travel. As the city’s inaugural Westin Hotel, this milestone underscores our unwavering commitment to catering to the evolving needs of travelers while strengthening our presence in India's high-growth markets.”

 

On the signing occasion, Adish Oswal, Chairman, Oswal Group, said, “We are excited to bring the globally acclaimed Westin brand to Ludhiana in collaboration with Marriott International. This partnership is a significant milestone in our vision to elevate the city's hospitality landscape with a wellness-driven luxury experience. We are committed to creating landmark destinations, and the Westin hotel will serve as its crown jewel, catering to discerning business and leisure travellers. With Ludhiana rapidly emerging as a regional powerhouse, we believe this development will not only complement the city's growth but also set new standards in hospitality and lifestyle offerings for North India.”

 

Ludhiana stands as one of Punjab’s most influential centres for industry, trade, agriculture, and logistics. Its strategic location enables seamless connectivity to key cities like Patiala, Bathinda, Delhi, Jalandhar, Moga and Amritsar, reinforcing its importance as a regional powerhouse. Conveniently located, the hotel will sit at a 20-minute drive from Ludhiana Railway Station, a 1.5-hour drive from Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, and a short 10–15-minute drive to the bustling city center. The upcoming airport at Halwara will be at a convenient 15- 20-minute drive from the hotel.

 

The Westin Ludhiana will feature multiple dining options including a Lobby Bar, a WestinWORKOUT® Fitness studio, the brand’s signature Heavenly Spa by Westin, a swimming pool, as well as an exclusive Executive Club Lounge. Plans also include to feature a large and versatile banqueting space, including an expansive outdoor lawn, perfect for both large-scale and intimate gatherings, as well as social and corporate events. Poised to embody the brand’s leadership in wellness-focused hospitality, the hotel will offer travelers a sanctuary to rejuvenate and thrive through its signature programs and pillars of well-being.

AIFI Launches “GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum” to Forge the Future of Indian Forging Industry

In a landmark initiative set to redefine the future of India’s forging sector, the Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI) has announced the launch of the “GenNext Entrepreneurs “, a first-of-its-kind platform in India aimed at nurturing emerging leaders in the forging industry. The Forum is a visionary step to empower the new generation of business leaders as they step into a globalised industrial landscape marked by innovation, rapid product evolution, and sustainability imperatives.

With India’s economy accelerating at an average growth rate of 7.2% over the past three fiscal years, and industries swiftly embracing disruptive technologies such as AI, IoT, robotics, and fintech, the forging sector stands at the threshold of a significant transformation. The GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum is AIFI’s proactive response to this new industrial paradigm, recognising the enthusiasm, adaptability, and global outlook of the next generation in family-owned forging businesses.

Speaking on this transformative initiative, Mr. Yash Munot, President, Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI), said, “The GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum is not just a platform, it’s a movement to shape the future of the Indian forging industry. Our vision is to position Indian forging as a global benchmark for innovation, quality, and sustainability. Through this forum, we aim to harness the creativity, energy, and ambition of the next generation of entrepreneurs. We are committed to offering them strategic insights, access to industry’s best practices, leadership training through academia-industry partnerships, and global exposure. This initiative will play a critical role in addressing succession challenges, updating traditional business models and building a collaborative ecosystem that ensures the industry's sustained growth and global competitiveness. Our mission remains focused on promoting excellence in technology, operations and leadership anchored firmly in sustainable and inclusive development.”

The Forum seeks to provide a dedicated platform for young forging entrepreneurs to engage in peer-to-peer knowledge exchange, participate in leadership development programmes and stay aligned with emerging global trends and technologies. Its activities include strategic sessions, academic collaborations, policy discussions, and exposure visits to innovation hubs. The initiative marked its first milestone with a launch event in Hyderabad, which included a visit to the CII-Godrej Green Business Centre, India’s first LEED Platinum-certified green building and an engaging leadership workshop titled “Re-inventing Family-Owned Businesses and Shifting Orbits of Growth”, conducted by renowned innovation strategist Dr. Rahul More.

Mr. Ankit Mehta, Director, KLM Forge Pvt. Ltd., Pune, said, “In an evolving industrial landscape, collaboration and innovation are more critical than ever. AIFI GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum invites young forgers like me to actively engage with peers, exchange ideas on modern forging practices and explore the latest technologies shaping our industry”

Future activities under the Forum will include interactions with young leaders from across industries, leadership programmes in collaboration with top academic institutions, overseas study missions, and capacity-building initiatives on cutting-edge topics such as artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning, cybersecurity and ESG frameworks. By creating a culture of continuous learning and forward-thinking, the AIFI GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum is set to become a defining platform for shaping the future of the forging industry in India.

Mr. Sivarjun Rachamallu, GM,  Rachamallu Forgings Pvt. Ltd., Hyderabad, said, “I am honoured to be part of the GenNext Entrepreneurs Forum, a visionary initiative by the Association of Indian Forging Industry (AIFI). GenNext serves as a platform for the next generation of forging professionals, where fresh perspectives meet seasoned expertise. The forum aims to drive positive transformation in the forging sector by advancing technology, promoting sustainability, and contributing to the development of progressive industry policies at the governmental level.” 

This initiative aligns seamlessly with AIFI’s broader vision to position the Indian forging industry as a global leader in manufacturing excellence, innovation, and sustainability. Through strategic advocacy, skill development, and a strong focus on collaborative growth, AIFI remains committed to empowering the sector and driving its transformation on the world stage.

Odysse Electric Clocks 344 Units Sold in June, Records 54% Monthly Growth

Odysse Electric Vehicles, one of India’s fastest-growing premium electric two-wheeler manufacturers, recorded total sales of 344 units in June 2025, registering a robust 54% month-on-month growth. This strong performance underscores the rising preference for practical, reliable, and sustainable mobility solutions among Indian commuters. 

The standout performer this month is the newly launched Odysse HyFy, a smart, low-speed electric scooter designed for daily urban commutes. Affordable, stylish, and hassle-free to maintain, the HyFy has quickly become a preferred choice for first-time EV buyers and young riders looking to switch to greener alternatives without compromising on convenience.

Mr. Nemin Vora, CEO, Odysse Electric Vehicles Pvt. Ltd., said, “We are encouraged to see our efforts translating into steady growth month after month. This milestone reflects the growing trust our customers place in us and the broader shift towards cleaner mobility. We remain focused on bringing more innovative and accessible EVs to the market while delivering a seamless ownership experience.”

The company’s consistent product innovation, combined with its expanding presence in both urban and semi-urban markets, has been instrumental in driving this growth. Odysse’s diverse electric scooter portfolio continues to attract a wide range of first-time EV buyers and daily riders seeking cost-effective alternatives to conventional two-wheelers.

Established in 2020, Odysse Electric is at the forefront of reshaping India's electric vehicle landscape. Odysse Electric offers one of the largest product portfolios, comprising 7 models which includes 2 low-speed scooters, 2 high-speed scooters, a delivery scooter targeted to B2B segment, an EV sports bike, and a commuter bike for daily users. The product range includes: -

• Electric motor cycle Vader (with 7” Touchscreen Android Display, AIS-156 approved battery, five drive modes, 18-liters storage space, Robust build)

• Odysse HyFy (25 km/h (compliant with low-speed EV regulations with Up to 70-89 km on a single charge)

• Electric bike EVOQIS & Evoqis Lite(with four drive modes, keyless entry, anti-theft lock and motor cut-off switch)

• Latest addition of High-Speed Electric scooter SNAP (AIS 156 approved smart Portable Battery, waterproof motor, Distance to Empty & CAN enabled display)

• High Speed Electric scooter HAWK Li (India’s first electric scooter with cruise control & Music system along with portable battery)

• Low Speed - E2Go Lite, E2go+ and E2GO Graphene (electric scooter with portable battery, USB charging, digital speedometer and keyless entry)

• Low speed electric scooter V2 Lite , V2 Graphene and V2+ (waterproof motor, huge boot space, dual battery and led lights)

• Electric scooter TROT 2.0 for last-mile delivery (Loading capacity of 250 kgs and IoT).

MAHE BLRU’s MIT Reports Stellar Placement Season with ₹52 LPA Top Salary

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  Highest package offered is ₹52 LPA

• 250+ top recruiters participated in the placement drive 2025

• Highest internship stipend offered was ₹1.1 LPA

• Top 3 streams garnering maximum packages: ₹22 LPA for Computer Science dept., ₹18.6 LPA for Computer Science & Engineering- AI & Cyber Security dept., ₹15 LPA for Information Technology dept.

Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), located at the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) Bangalore campus. It is a top-tier constituent of MAHE, which ranked 4th in the NIRF 2024 University Rankings. MIT Bangalore has achieved incredible placement results this year.

The highlight of the season was a ₹52 LPA package secured by Vijval Narayana, a B.Tech student from the Electronics and Communication Engineering department. This marks a significant milestone for MIT Bengaluru’s first graduating batch. The season also witnessed several high-value offers, the standout packages being ₹22 LPA for Pradyota Kirtikar (Computer Science); ₹18.6 LPA each for Himavarshini Beedala and Shreeya Khera (CSE - AI & Cyber Security); and ₹15 LPA for P. Yasmeen Begum (Information Technology).

Prof. (Dr) Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Bengaluru, said “At MAHE Bengaluru, we are always committed to extend beyond traditional education to foster industry-ready professionals. By aligning our curriculum with modern market demands and enhancing practical skills development, we ensure our students are always well-prepared for the competitive landscape. The impressive placement outcomes and handsome packages our students secure are a testament to this strategic approach.”

Sharing his thoughts, Dr. Iven Jose, Director of MIT Bengaluru, said, "At MIT Bengaluru, we create an exciting learning ecosystem shaped by innovation, industry immersion, and holistic development. Being in the center of India's and specifically Karnataka's technology hub, our students have easy access to incredible companies, research institutes, and start-up ecosystems. Through advanced infrastructure, interdisciplinary working, and engaged faculty, we commit to our students working on real-world challenges and place importance on honing skills such as entrepreneurship, sustainability, and digital transformation."

 

MIT Bengaluru also reported encouraging statistics in its internship placement drive:

• ₹1.1 LPA - Highest internship stipend

• ₹38 KPM - Average stipend

• ₹30 KPM - Median stipend

Over 250 Top Recruiters Participated

The placement season saw participation from more than 250 recruiters spanning sectors like technology, consulting, healthcare, energy, and finance. Major companies included: Microsoft, Amazon, McKinsey & Company, Komprise, Optum, Saviynt, Shell, HPE, Infosys, TCS, Intel, Goldman Sachs, Philips, Unilever, Dell, Capgemini, Swiggy, LumiQ, BlackRock, Cognizant, Siemens Healthineers, and many others.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education Bengaluru (MAHE B’LRU):

Established in 1953, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant research contributions, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, honoured MAHE with the prestigious designation of Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. Currently ranked sixth in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience. MAHE Bengaluru, an off campus of MAHE, excels in delivering comprehensive education to students, supported by highly qualified faculty, and dedicated mentors. The MAHE Bengaluru campus has an inspiring, future-relevant learning ecosystem, on a new-age tech-enabled living campus. Here, the students immerse themselves, transform, and discover multiple choices and opportunities. At MAHE Bengaluru, the potential for growth and the opportunities available are boundless.

Konica Minolta Unveils Phase II of PAN India Brand Marketing Campaign via Metro Trains in 6 Key Cities

Konica Minolta Business Solutions India Pvt. Ltd., leading player in digital production printing and business solutions, is scaling new heights with the launch of the second leg of its PAN India brand marketing campaign through Metro trains, covering six major metropolitan cities: Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kolkata.

Building on the success of the initial activation in Delhi and Mumbai earlier this year, this larger rollout will span 7 metro trains across 6 cities, starting June 23rd in Delhi, Mumbai, and continuing across the rest of the cities.

Under the campaign theme ‘Shaping New Heights, Together’ and ‘India Prints on Konica Minolta’, the brand is showcasing its vision of innovation and collaboration through high-visibility branding on the exteriors and interiors of metro trains. The exterior branding ensures maximum city-wide visibility, while the interiors are designed to engage commuters with detailed information about Konica Minolta’s product portfolio and core business solutions.

On this, Mr. Katsuhisa Asari, Managing Director, Konica Minolta Business Solutions India Pvt. Ltd., said, “With this expansive branding exercise rollout, we are entering a significant phase of brand awareness across India’s most dynamic cities. Each train we brand is a mobile showcase of our technological edge. For our customers and our stakeholders, this signals that Konica Minolta is ready for the next phase of growth in India that is deeper, more integrated, and sharply aligned with the evolving business needs of tomorrow.”

Konica Minolta has consistently invested in high-impact branding efforts such as Digital OOH, One PowerHouse, and Print Xpress, but this metro campaign marks a landmark initiative in terms of scale, reach, and immersive engagement.

As urban India continues to evolve and digital printing becomes a cornerstone of modern businesses, Konica Minolta is ensuring it remains at the forefront, connecting with millions of commuters every day, and reinforcing its position as a trusted partner in progress.