How I Started an Open Access Publishing Company That Has Published Articles Globally
By Ankit Verma
I remember the moment clearly: sipping chai at my favorite corner café in Delhi, the aroma of cardamom wafting around me, when the thought struck like lightning – why not create a platform for researchers and writers to share their work freely? This was back in 2018, and I had just come across a paper that was locked behind a paywall. I thought to myself, “Yaar, this knowledge should be available for everyone, not just a privileged few.” And just like that, the seed for my open access publishing company was planted.
The Journey Begins
Starting out was like trying to assemble a complicated jigsaw puzzle without the picture on the box. I had a background in literature, not science, and the world of academic publishing felt like an alien landscape. I knew I had to learn quickly. So, I dove into research. I read everything I could find about open access. I joined forums, attended webinars, and connected with experts. It was overwhelming but exhilarating. Every new piece of information felt like a small victory.
One of the first challenges was to define our mission. I wanted to create a platform that would not only publish articles but also foster collaboration among researchers worldwide. I wanted people to feel that their voices mattered, that their work could impact lives. This was not just business; it was a mission.
Finding the Right Team
After months of researching, I realized I couldn’t do this alone. I needed a team that shared my vision. So, I reached out to friends, former colleagues, and even acquaintances who were passionate about academia and technology. You know how it is in India; we have this knack for networking, and I managed to gather a diverse group of individuals with unique strengths. From tech-savvy individuals who could build a website to those with experience in academia, my team was a melting pot of skills.
Our first challenge was to build a user-friendly platform. We wanted a site that was intuitive, where authors could submit their work easily and readers could access articles without any hassle. The brainstorming sessions often turned into late-night discussions filled with laughter and chai breaks. We were determined, and that camaraderie fueled our creativity.
The Launch
Fast forward to early 2019, after countless hours of hard work, we finally launched our website. The excitement was palpable. I remember hitting the “Publish” button for the first article. It felt like sending my child off to school for the first time. I was nervous yet hopeful. Would people even notice us in this vast sea of content?
Initially, the response was modest. We published a few articles here and there, but I knew we needed to generate more interest. So, I started reaching out to universities and researchers. I attended conferences, handed out flyers, and spoke passionately about the importance of open access. Every rejection felt like a personal blow, but I learned to take it in stride.
Building a Community
What made the difference was our approach to building a community. We didn’t just want to publish articles; we wanted to engage with our authors and readers. We started hosting webinars featuring prominent researchers, encouraging discussions around their work. We created a platform where voices from different corners of the globe could converge.
I recall a webinar where an author from a rural part of India shared her findings on sustainable farming. Her passion was infectious, and the audience was captivated. That moment reaffirmed my belief in what we were doing. Knowledge, when shared freely, can empower communities and spark change.
Overcoming Hurdles
Of course, the journey wasn’t all smooth sailing. We faced financial challenges, technical glitches, and the occasional self-doubt. I remember one particularly tough month when our funds were running low, and I felt like giving up. But then, I would think about the authors who believed in us, the readers who were benefiting from our platform, and I found the strength to push through.
We explored various funding options, applied for grants, and even launched a crowdfunding campaign. Each small success fueled our motivation and reminded me that perseverance pays off.
Expanding Horizons
By 2021, we had started gaining traction. Our articles were being read by people across the globe, from students in remote villages to researchers at prestigious institutions. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Authors began reaching out, excited to share their work. It felt surreal to see our platform grow, to witness the ripple effects of our mission.
We started collaborating with international researchers, and our articles began to appear in various languages. It was thrilling to realize that our work was transcending borders. We were not just an Indian company anymore; we had become a global player in the open access arena.
Reflections and Future
Looking back, I often think about how this journey has shaped me. I’ve learned invaluable lessons about resilience, teamwork, and the power of knowledge. I’ve met incredible people – thinkers, innovators, and dreamers who inspire me to keep going.
As I sit here today, reflecting on our journey, I feel a mix of gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead. We are constantly evolving, exploring new ways to enhance our platform, and remain committed to our mission of making knowledge accessible to all.
So, if you’re thinking about starting your own venture, remember this: every big dream starts with a small step. Don’t be afraid to take that leap. You may stumble, but each misstep is a lesson in disguise. Surround yourself with passionate people, stay true to your vision, and above all, never lose sight of the impact you can create.
What do you think? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!