iBUS Network and Infrastructure Private Limited has announced that it has secured an investment of Rs 2,800 million (US$34 million) from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group for a minority stake in the company. This strategic partnership is set to further bolster iBUS’s plans for both domestic and international growth, enhancing its ability to deliver cutting-edge solutions for in-building connectivity, outdoor small cells (a radio access point), managed wi-fi services and intelligent internet of things (IoT).
Commenting on the announcement, Subash Vasudevan, chief business officer, iBUS Network, said, “We are excited to welcome IFC as a key partner in our journey toward global expansion and innovation. IFC’s investment aligns with our vision to transform the digital infrastructure landscape. With their unparalleled expertise and global reach, IFC will play a pivotal role in helping us scale our operations, enter new markets, and deliver world-class digital solutions. This partnership marks a significant milestone for iBUS, as we aim to accelerate our growth, improve our technological capabilities and continue to strengthen our position as a leader in the industry. We look forward to contributing to the digital transformation of economies worldwide.”
This is IFC’s first investment in infratech in the Asia-Pacific region and aligns with the organisation’s broader strategic focus on improving access to high-quality digital connectivity and supporting India’s digital transformation.
Meanwhile, Wendy Werner, country head, IFC India, said, “Boosting reliable digital connectivity is critical to bridging the digital divide. IFC’s investment in iBUS Network reflects our strong commitment to supporting India’s vision of a digital inclusive economy. Through this partnership, we aim to strengthen last-mile connectivity and elevate the quality of digital infrastructure for both individuals and businesses in the country. By scaling innovative technologies and boosting market competitiveness, we will create new growth opportunities for businesses and job creation in the telecom sector.”
Under the partnership iBUS Network will also leverage IFC’s gender advisory to increase representation of women across all organisational tiers. The investment also marks a significant milestone for iBUS as it continues to scale operations and extend its market presence beyond India and across emerging sectors, including IoT and other advanced digital infrastructure solutions.
Further, Vinod Giri, managing partner, Master Fund, NIIF, said, “We are delighted to welcome IFC as a partner alongside National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) in iBUS Network. IFC’s investment is not only a testament to iBUS’s robust growth trajectory and strong fundamentals, but also underscores the critical role that digital infrastructure will play in India’s growth story. At NIIF, we are committed to backing companies like iBUS that are reshaping India’s digital landscape and driving sustainable growth. We look forward to partnering with IFC to further accelerate iBUS’s mission to digitise India with innovative solutions like In-building connectivity and managed wi-fi services.”
This investment follows a series of major developments for iBUS, including the recent US $200 million funding from the NIIF and plans for three significant acquisitions this year. These moves underline iBUS’s commitment to leading the digital infrastructure revolution in India and beyond.
