From the heart of Mithilanchal, Bihar, comes a unique startup that's shaking up the creator economy in India – meet Sponso, the mobile app that's simplifying brand-influencer collaborations. And behind this idea is none other than Avinash Jha. We caught up with him to learn more about his journey, vision, and the real story behind the screens.
🌱 Origins of the Idea: It All Began When...
Q. While others were partying, you were busy dreaming up an app – where did that passion even come from?
Answer: It came from watching my friends struggle to monetize their content. I realized there's a real gap between creators and brands. I just couldn’t stop thinking, “What if there was a simpler way to connect them?”
Q. Before launching Sponso, did you ever feel that ‘influencer marketing’ could become such a massive opportunity in India?
Answer: Honestly, no. I thought it was a niche thing for celebs. But once I saw micro-influencers growing and brands shifting their budgets, it was clear this was the future.
Q. When you first told someone you're building a platform that connects creators and brands – what was their first reaction?
Answer: They laughed and said, “Why would brands trust small influencers?” Today, some of those same people are using Sponso to run their campaigns.
Must Read : Top 10 Emerging Startups from Bihar That Are Solving Real Problems in 2025
📲 The App, The Growth & The Vision
Q. For someone who's never heard of Sponso, how would you describe the app in a tweet (280 characters max)?
Answer: Sponso is the Tinder for creators and brands—just swipe, match, and collaborate. We’re helping creators earn and brands grow—no agents, no delays, just pure connections.
Q. There are influencer apps out there already – what makes Sponso truly different?
Answer: We focus on Bharat, not just India. We empower local creators with real tools, vernacular support, and instant campaign access. Plus, it’s 10x easier to use.
Q. What was your biggest ‘Aha!’ moment while building this platform?
Answer: When a college student from Patna told me she paid her semester fees through her Sponso collaborations. That’s when I knew we were doing something meaningful.
Q. And what was your biggest ‘Oh No!’ moment?
Answer: Our server crashed during a major festival campaign. Brands were furious. But it forced us to scale better and build stronger tech.
Q. Did you ever fake confidence in front of investors or users when deep down, you were panicking? (Be honest!)
Answer: Many times! I think every founder does that. You smile, pitch like a rockstar, then go cry into your pillow later. 😅
🚀 Startup Life, Bihar Pride & Beyond
Q. You’ve built something so relevant from Bihar – how do you feel representing your state in the startup world?
Answer: I feel proud and responsible. If my story inspires even one small-town dreamer to start up, that’s a win.
Q. What’s your go-to productivity mantra on tough days?
Answer: “Done is better than perfect.” I remind myself to keep showing up. Even on the worst days.
Q. Three things you absolutely love about being a founder?
Answer: 1) Freedom to create, 2) Learning every day, and 3) The crazy, unpredictable ride—it’s like being on a rollercoaster without a seatbelt.
Q. One weird/funny client or creator story you’ll never forget?
Answer: A creator once asked a brand if they could shoot a promo video with goats—because the product “felt natural.” The brand actually loved it!
Q. Who’s the first person you call when Sponso hits a new milestone?
Answer: My mom. She doesn’t get the tech, but she celebrates like I won the World Cup.
Q. If your journey with Sponso were a movie, what would the title be?
Answer: “From Likes to Legacy” — a story of turning scrolls into success.
📝 Final Thoughts
From humble beginnings in Mithilanchal to disrupting the influencer marketing space nationwide, Avinash Jha’s journey with Sponso proves that big ideas don't need big cities—just bold vision. His story is a reminder that with passion, persistence, and a deep understanding of your users, even the most ambitious digital dreams can take shape.
Whether you're a budding creator, an aspiring founder, or someone cheering for Bihar’s startup scene—Sponso’s journey is one to watch.
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