Meet these self-made and successful Indian-origin entrepreneurs in the UK
ETimes July 31, 2026 03:39 AM
For years, entrepreneurs of Indian origin have played a significant role in shaping the UK's business landscape. From manufacturing and pharmaceuticals to finance, hospitality and cutting-edge technology, they have built internationally recognised businesses through innovation, resilience and long-term vision. Many arrived in Britain with little more than ambition and determination, overcoming challenges to create enterprises that today employ thousands of people, contribute significantly to the UK economy and strengthen commercial ties between the United Kingdom and India. Their stories continue to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs who see business not only as a path to success but also as a platform for creating lasting economic and social impact.
While each entrepreneurial journey is unique, they all share common characteristics—calculated risk-taking, perseverance, innovation and an unwavering commitment to building organisations that create long-term value. From global industrial groups and healthcare companies to technology firms and consumer brands, Indian-origin entrepreneurs have established themselves among Britain's most respected business leaders. Here are some of the leading self-made Indian-origin entrepreneurs who have made a significant contribution in the UK economy.
Herman Narula
Net Worth: £700 million
Being a well-known person in the IT industry, Herman Narula is the co-founder and current CEO of Improbable, which is one of the most famous UK startups in the tech industry. The company is a prominent technology firm that builds massive distributive simulation systems. The company developed SpatialOS and later Morpheus technology which are back end computation platforms designed to host over 10,000 real users simultaneously.
Rishi Khosla
Net Worth: £650 Million
Rishi Khosla is a modern tech entrepreneur and is one of the top self-made and successful Indian-origin entrepreneurs in the UK. He is the co-founder and CEO of OakNorth Bank. The company operates as a digital lending platform and is reportedly highly profitable. It is currently aggressively expanding the lending operations in the US market.
Raj Manak
Net Worth: £295 million
Construction helped Raj Manak to build his fortune and currently, he has an estimated net worth of about £295 million. The core services of the company include the dry lining, plastering, external facades and glazing with a speciality in building envelopes, interior fit outs and external finishes. The company is regularly shortlisted for major industry awards. It has received the Specialist Contractor of the Year at the Construction News Awards.
Arun Kar
Net Worth: £109 million
India born Captain Arun Kar (Retd), who currently lives in Britain, is the founder of Xpertnest and has invested in numerous rapidly growing businesses. His net worth is estimated according to an independent valuation performed in May 2025, taking into account business valuations and property assets.
Dinesh Makhija
Net Worth: £100 Million
Another self made successful Indian-origin entrepreneur and businessman who revolutionized the UK travel industry, Dinesh Makhija is the founder and chairman of the company Ebookers. The company is considered as one of Europe's first major online travel agencies.
These achievements highlight the lasting impact of talent and innovation in the UK's business space. Their achievements demonstrate not only commercial success but also the important role that entrepreneurship plays in strengthening the UK economy, fostering innovation, and deepening international business relationships. As Britain's innovation economy continues to expand, Indian-origin entrepreneurs are expected to remain at the forefront of creating globally competitive businesses and shaping the next chapter of British enterprise.
