“Anybody Can Build Tech”: In Conversation with Ritesh Hegde, Founder of ABCD by Ritz7

As artificial intelligence and no-code platforms begin to redefine how technology is built, a new category of creators is emerging—individuals who may not come from traditional programming backgrounds, yet are capable of building real, scalable solutions.

At the centre of this shift is ABCD by Ritz7, a fast-growing learning ecosystem founded by Ritesh Hegde. Built on the philosophy that anybody can design, develop and deploy, the platform is helping thousands of learners navigate the evolving landscape of AI and automation.

In this conversation, Ritesh reflects on his journey, the gaps in tech education, and the larger vision of making technology creation accessible to all.

Q. Take us back to the beginning—what led to the genesis of ABCD by Ritz7?

My journey with automation started nearly 17 years ago. I began with Excel-based automation, then moved into Google Sheets, and eventually into no-code platforms and web application development using tools like Bubble.io.

Over the last five to six years, my team and I worked on more than 450 projects for over 100 clients across 30+ countries—most of these solutions were built without writing a single line of code.

Coming from an electrical engineering background, I realised that if someone like me could build complex tech solutions using no-code tools, then many others could do the same. That’s what led to ABCD, which stands for Anybody Can Design, Develop and Deploy.

Q. What did your career look like before starting ABCD, and how did it shape your approach?

Before entrepreneurship, I worked with Robert Bosch and Continental for close to 10 years.

Later, I moved into freelancing and eventually built my own firm focused on automation and application development. Education wasn’t the original plan.

But when we started training students and professionals, we realised people needed ongoing support. That’s when we shifted our focus from services to building a system that helps people learn and grow consistently.

Q. What gaps did you notice in India’s tech and AI education ecosystem?

The biggest gap was awareness. During the pandemic, when I was hiring interns, I noticed that most people were only familiar with traditional programming languages like C++ or Python. Very few knew about no-code platforms.

At the same time, AI was evolving rapidly. That combination made it clear that people who don’t adapt to these tools risk being left behind. ABCD was created to ensure people have access to the right knowledge at the right time.

Q. When did you realise ABCD was becoming a scalable business?

Initially, it wasn’t meant to be a business, it was just a community.

But as it grew and crossed 1,000 members, we started seeing the larger impact. Today, we’re helping people build skills, get freelance opportunities, and stay updated with emerging technologies.

Since the entire team is now involved in growing the community, it has naturally become a core part of our business.

Q. Your workshops and institutional collaborations are growing, how did this evolve?

We’ve mentored more than 20,000 learners through different collaborations.

Also Read: ABCD by Ritz7 Hosts No-Code and AI Workshops for 1,700+ Students Across 2 Engineering Campuses

Organizations bring in learners, and I guide them on technology and automation. The institutional focus came naturally because we realised that to create real impact, we need to teach at scale.

Also, since I come from a non-software background, I understand how beginners think. That helps in simplifying concepts for them.

Q. What kind of demand are you seeing from educational institutions today?

Right now, the biggest demand is around AI. Colleges want students to understand AI and build practical solutions. No-code tools are part of the process, but AI is what initially attracts attention.

We’re currently in discussions with multiple institutions, and from April onwards, we expect to conduct several sessions.

Q. What does your current business model look like?

At the moment, it’s quite straightforward. We collaborate with institutions and conduct training sessions and workshops, and they pay for these programs. The model is still evolving as we explore ways to create more value through education.

Q. How do you measure success at ABCD?

For me, success is a “win-win-win.”

There should be a win for: the business, the team and the learners. If all three benefit, then we’re on the right track.

Q. What have been your biggest leadership lessons so far?

Learning to let go of control. Earlier, I felt I had to be involved in everything. But that slows things down. Leadership is about trusting your team and giving them ownership.

Once I started doing that, the team stepped up and delivered excellent results.

Q. How do you see ABCD evolving in the next 3–5 years?

Our biggest goal is impact. We aim to educate at least one million learners worldwide in AI and no-code technologies. If we achieve that, the impact will be massive.

In terms of revenue, we expect significant growth—possibly 25 times—but our focus remains on enabling people with future-ready skills.

Q. How has entrepreneurship changed your lifestyle?

When I started, I thought entrepreneurship would give me more freedom. But instead of 9-to-5, it became 9 AM to midnight. That said, I enjoy the journey. It’s challenging, but also very rewarding.

Q. What does work-life balance look like for you today?

Honestly, it’s still something I’m working on. Most of my time goes into work, but I try to take occasional family trips. Spending time with my kids helps me reset and manage stress.

Q. Outside of work, what do you enjoy?

Earlier, I used to enjoy carrom, trekking, and bike rides, but I haven’t had much time for those recently.

I’m not much into reading books—I prefer learning through conversations and discussions.

Q. Any milestone or recognition that stands out?

One meaningful recognition was at Proficorn, where we received an award for 329% growth.

What made it special was the journey. A couple of years earlier, our team had reduced from 14 members to just 2, and I even considered shutting down.

Later, I joined a business coaching program, which helped me rebuild the company and achieve that growth.

Q. What advice would you give to young founders?

I’m still on the journey myself, but one thing I’ve learned is the importance of trust.

For freelancers, trust with clients is everything. For founders, trust within the team is equally important. If trust is strong, everything else follows.

Closing Note

With the rise of AI and no-code, the definition of a “tech builder” is rapidly changing. Through ABCD by Ritz7, Ritesh Hegde is not just teaching tools—he is enabling a new generation of creators to build without traditional barriers.

And in doing so, he is quietly contributing to a more inclusive and accessible future of technology.