More than a decade ago, Subbu Pericherla and Doug Firestone met through their work connecting entrepreneurs and educators across borders. What began as a professional collaboration quickly grew into a lasting friendship grounded in a shared belief that business should not be limited by geography but powered by global relationships, strategy, and innovation.
Over twelve years ago, Subbu founded CrossBorders in Hyderabad, India, with a mission to help Indian companies scale globally through partnerships, talent, and market access. Meanwhile, Doug was leading growth initiatives in the United States, forging partnerships and ventures that spanned education, technology, and business across the U.S., India, and the Middle East.
Their paths continued to intersect — from conferences to late-night strategy calls — until one day, the conversation turned from “what if” to “let’s do this together.”
Today, that vision is realized. Doug has joined Subbu as Co-Founder and Managing Director for the USA, expanding CrossBorders’ footprint and mission to guide companies seeking to enter new markets from India to the USA and the Middle East.
Their partnership represents more than business it’s the story of two friends, united by purpose, who believe that collaboration is the most powerful bridge between ideas and opportunity.
From Hyderabad to Tampa, CrossBorders exists to help founders, companies, and innovators turn local dreams into global success.
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Founder
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Subba Raju “Subbu” Pericherla is a seasoned entrepreneur, startup mentor, and ecosystem builder whose journey spans several decades of innovation and leadership.
Beginning his career as a data entry operator, Subbu rose to prominence in the HR industry through his empathy, community building, and people-first approach. His entrepreneurial drive has since led him to found and support ventures across technology, manufacturing, F&B, and assisted e-commerce sectors.
Today, he leads CrossBorders and iCollab Hub, building founder-centric business transformation and revenue acceleration ecosystems, while actively mentoring university entrepreneurs through SEE…U.
A passionate ecosystem enabler, Subbu serves as Chair, TYE (TiE Hyderabad), Past Global Co-Chair, TiE University, and Core Team Member, Startup Leadership Program (SLP) India.
I became a Data Entry Operator and Faculty by Need, I turned a Recruiter and HR professional by Chance But I became An Entrepreneur and Enabler by Choice.
Co-Founder & Managing Director, USA
R. Douglas Firestone is a seasoned entrepreneur, strategist, and global advisor with decades of experience scaling organizations across education, technology, and international business.
As Co-Founder and Managing Director (USA) at CrossBorders, he leads North American strategy and global partnerships, helping international startups and institutions expand into the U.S. market.
Doug previously founded Arcus LLC, a staffing and recruiting firm that grew to $28 million in revenue before acquisition, and has advised organizations such as IBaseIT and Qylis across India, the UAE, and the U.S.
A leader who bridges academia and entrepreneurship, he also established Harrisburg University’s Dubai campus and held senior roles at Florida Southern College. His mission at CrossBorders is to connect founders and investors across continents—unlocking growth through collaboration and innovation.
Co-Founder & Managing Director, USA
Whether you’re a founder, investor, or institution looking to expand globally, we’re here to help you build the bridges that make it possible.
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