About Balu Masti

DeepTech Startup Enabler, Strategic Consultant, and Veena Vidwan - Bridging the worlds of technology innovation and classical music artistry.

Balu Masti - Professional Portrait

My Journey

From the intricate melodies of Carnatic music to the complex algorithms of deep technology, my path has been one of continuous learning, innovation, and passionate pursuit of excellence.

Professional Excellence

DeepTech Strategist

Over two decades of experience in guiding startups through the complex landscape of emerging technologies, from AI and blockchain to quantum computing and biotechnology.

Ecosystem Builder

Passionate about creating connections between innovators, investors, and industry leaders to accelerate breakthrough technologies from lab to market.

Mentor & Coach

Dedicated to nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs with hands-on guidance, strategic insights, and unwavering support throughout their journey.

Experience Overview

Current Leadership & Advisory Roles

Co-Founder & Director

HUM Consulting Services • 2016 - Present

Technology Enabler & DeepTech Consultant

Advisor/Mentor

Beta University • Berkeley SkyDeck • CMU Swartz Center

Early-stage startup advisor in Silicon Valley & Pittsburgh

Academic & Ecosystem Leadership

Director, International Collaborations

RV University • 2023 - Present

Industry-Academia collaboration & strategic partnerships

Ecosystem Advisor

AI Entrepreneurs at Berkeley • 2023 - Present

Guiding AI startups in product development & strategy

Corporate & Startup Experience

Co-Founder & Director

Vigyanlabs Innovations • 2013 - 2016

Led engineering development and revenue growth across USA, APAC & Europe

Engineering Manager

Intel Corporation • 2006 - 2012

Led Intel In-Target Probe & Graphics Tools teams in Bangalore

Staff Software Engineer & Tech Lead

Qualcomm • 2000 - 2006

Product Owner for logging & data analysis tools, wireless protocols development

Core Expertise

Product Design Startup Development AI & DeepTech Go-to-Market Strategy Early-Stage Startups Ecosystem Building Strategic Consulting STEAM Education

My Ethos

The principles that guide my approach to business, technology, and life.

Authenticity

Being genuine in all interactions, staying true to values, and building trust through transparency and honest communication.

Excellence

Pursuing mastery in every endeavor, whether it's crafting business strategies or perfecting musical compositions.

Empathy

Understanding and connecting with others' perspectives, challenges, and aspirations to create meaningful solutions.

Guiding Philosophy

Harmony in Complexity

Just as Carnatic music finds beauty in intricate ragas and complex rhythms, I believe that the most elegant solutions often emerge from embracing and orchestrating complexity rather than avoiding it.

Improvisation with Structure

The art of improvisation in music teaches us that creativity flourishes within well-defined frameworks. Similarly, successful startups need both solid foundations and the flexibility to adapt and innovate.

"Innovation is like a raga - it requires deep understanding of fundamentals, respect for tradition, and the courage to explore new expressions."
- Balu Masti

Music as Passion

Beyond the world of technology, I am a dedicated Veena Vidwan in the rich tradition of Carnatic music, where discipline, creativity, and spiritual expression converge.

The Veena Journey

The Veena, often called the queen of Indian instruments, has been my companion for over three decades. This ancient instrument teaches patience, precision, and the art of finding melody within structure.

Classical Training

Rigorous training in traditional Carnatic music under renowned gurus

Performance Experience

Regular performances at cultural events and music festivals

Teaching & Mentorship

Sharing the beauty of Carnatic music with the next generation

Balu Masti - Musical Heritage

Where Music Meets Innovation

The discipline of Carnatic music has profoundly shaped my approach to business and technology. The same principles that guide a perfect raga - structure, creativity, timing, and emotional resonance - are essential for building successful startups and fostering innovation.

Rhythm

Perfect timing in music mirrors strategic timing in business decisions

Harmony

Balancing different elements to create something beautiful and meaningful

Innovation

Creative expression within traditional frameworks drives breakthrough solutions

Let's Create Something Extraordinary

Whether you're looking to accelerate your startup, explore deep technologies, or simply share a conversation about the intersection of music and innovation, I'd love to connect with you.