09/01/2025
Chetan Gowda: From Small-Town Roots to Signage Industry Success
Chetan Gowda, a name that resonates with ambition and resilience, embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship in Karnataka. Born and raised in the picturesque town of Chikkamagaluru, Chetan’s journey from a small-town boy to the founder of a thriving signage business is a testament to his determination and vision.
Chetan's story begins in Chikkamagaluru, where he was born to Eregowda and Kalavathi. Growing up in a nurturing family environment, he was instilled with strong values and a work ethic that would serve him well in the future. After completing his primary education, he moved to Kundapura, where he completed his schooling up to the tenth grade. The transition from a small town to a new school environment was challenging, but Chetan faced it head-on, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.
Following his school education, Chetan pursued a diploma in Mechanical Engineering at DACG Polytechnic in Chikkamagaluru. This technical background would later play a crucial role in his career. After completing his diploma, Chetan took a significant step by relocating to Bengaluru to further his education and career prospects. He enrolled in an MBA program, which he pursued through long-distance education while working at Prime Progression, a company where he honed his skills for two years.
The Corporate Journey
After his stint at Prime Progression, Chetan joined AXYZ Automation Private Limited, where he dedicated 13 years of his career. This role was pivotal, allowing him to gain extensive experience in the automation and signage industry. It was here that Chetan cultivated the skills necessary for his entrepreneurial venture, understanding the intricacies of business operations, customer service, and market dynamics.
Chetan's desire to be an entrepreneur grew during his time at AXYZ. Inspired by the idea of creating something of his own, he set a goal to start his business by the age of 34. With a clear vision in mind, he took a leap of faith.
Launching Info Signs
In 2020, amidst the global pandemic, Chetan launched Info Signs in JP Nagar, Bengaluru. Specializing in creating boards, signages, and internal and external displays, Info Signs quickly carved a niche in the competitive signage market. The initial team consisted of just eight people, but Chetan's leadership and vision were instrumental in fostering a collaborative work environment.
However, the onset of COVID-19 posed significant challenges for many businesses, and Info Signs was no exception. Like many entrepreneurs, Chetan faced tough times as the company struggled to stay afloat. The pandemic-induced economic downturn led to a loss in revenue, testing his resolve and commitment to his dream.
Resilience and Growth
Despite the setbacks, Chetan's perseverance paid off. After navigating through the rough waters of the pandemic, Info Signs rebounded and began to grow rapidly. In just three years, the company transformed from a small startup to an organization employing around 80 people. The workforce expansion was not only a testament to the recovery of the business but also highlighted Chetan’s ability to inspire and lead a growing team.
Under Chetan's leadership, Info Signs achieved a remarkable milestone, reaching an impressive turnover of 8 crore. This achievement reflects not only the hard work put in by Chetan and his team but also the growing demand for quality signage solutions in the region. The company expanded its reach with branches in Anjanapura and Bommasandra, further solidifying its presence in the Bengaluru market.
Looking ahead, Chetan has ambitious plans for Info Signs. His vision extends beyond Bengaluru, as he aims to establish more branches across Karnataka. The next step in his expansion strategy is to set foot in Mangalore, tapping into new markets and diversifying his business operations. Chetan believes that with the right strategies and a dedicated team, Info Signs can achieve even greater heights.
A Family Man
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Chetan values his family deeply. He is married to Shruthi, a devoted housewife, and together they have two daughters, Hitha and Vibha. Balancing family life with a demanding business career is no easy task, but Chetan believes that his family provides the support and motivation needed to pursue his dreams.
Chetan Gowda's journey from Chikkamagaluru to becoming a successful entrepreneur in Bengaluru is a remarkable story of determination, resilience, and growth. His ability to adapt to challenges, coupled with a strong vision for the future, sets him apart as an inspiring figure in the business community. As Info Signs continues to grow and expand, Chetan's story serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere, proving that with hard work and perseverance, success is indeed within reach.
