Tech

Indian-Origin MIT Engineer Apurva Shrivastava Turns Missed Calls Into ₹8,000 Crore Empire

Tech desk
NRI HeraldJuly 12, 2026
3 min read
Avoca logo with the word "AVOCA" in white text on a blue background

Shrivastava, who studied at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, founded Avoca to address a persistent problem in service industries: missed calls that lead to lost revenue. The platform operates around the clock, handling inbound communication, scheduling appointments, and sending automated follow-ups to customers.

Avoca targets blue-collar sectors including HVAC, plumbing, and electrical contracting, where small businesses often lack the staff to answer every call. By using artificial intelligence to manage these interactions, the company says it converts what would otherwise be missed opportunities into confirmed jobs.

The startup has grown to a valuation of ₹8,000 crore, reflecting strong demand for its services. Shrivastava's background in engineering from MIT helped him design a system that integrates seamlessly with the daily operations of service providers.

The company's approach has resonated with contractors who juggle field work and office duties. Avoca's AI not only answers calls but also learns to schedule jobs based on technician availability and customer preferences, reducing administrative burden.

Shrivastava's journey from an MIT classroom to founding a multi-billion-rupee enterprise highlights the growing role of AI in traditional industries. Avoca's success suggests that even the simplest customer touchpoint, the missed call, can be transformed into a revenue driver with the right technology.

Tech desk · July 12, 2026
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