From a Late-Night Search To A Global Powerhouse: The CodeAce Story Born In Kozhikode

Long before it became a global digital marketing company, CodeAce began with a moment of curiosity. One night in Kozhikode, a college student sat in front of his computer and typed a simple question into Google: “How to make money online.” That search, made out of curiosity rather than ambition, would go on to transform into one of Kerala’s most inspiring startup journeys.

Founded by Jijin Mohan, CodeAce today operates out of Kozhikode’s Government Cyberpark and serves clients across Europe and the United States. From a single idea sparked in 2011, the company has evolved into a 120-member organisation that delivers performance marketing, software development, and e-commerce solutions for over 80 global brands.

A Journey Sparked by Curiosity

In 2015, while still in college, Jijin stumbled upon blogging and later affiliate marketing, exploring how online platforms could generate income. What began as an experiment quickly turned into a fascination with the potential of digital performance marketing.

After completing his studies, Jijin moved to Dubai to delve deeper into the digital economy. There, he identified a recurring challenge, a shortage of skilled and reliable digital marketing professionals. The experience convinced him to return home and build a company that could deliver global-quality solutions from Kerala.

“That’s when the ‘Made in Kozhikode’ idea took shape,” recalls Jijin Mohan, Founder and CEO, CodeAce. “The goal was to show that a global digital business could be built and scaled from our own city.”

Building from the Ground Up

In 2018, with an initial investment of ₹25 lakhs, CodeAce was launched from the Mobile10x Acceleration Hub at the Government Cyberpark in Kozhikode - now operating under the Kerala Startup Mission as a startup acceleration hub. The five-member founding team set out with a clear vision: to create measurable, performance-driven digital marketing strategies that help brands grow.

But just as the startup began to gain traction, the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Projects were put on hold, clients withdrew budgets, and operations came to a standstill. It was a defining test for a young company still establishing its reputation.

Instead of retreating, the team used the period to reset and prepare for the surge in digital transformation that followed. As businesses worldwide went online, CodeAce was ready to support them. By late 2021, the company had regained its momentum, expanding its team and strengthening its presence in international markets.

Building a Culture That Endures

Behind CodeAce’s growth was a partnership built on trust and complementary strengths. Sarath Kumar, the company’s Chief Operating Officer and Jijin’s long-time friend, brought operational discipline and structure to balance Jijin’s entrepreneurial vision. Together, they shaped a workplace culture that valued people as much as performance.

That philosophy was reflected in a memorable gesture during CodeAce’s seventh anniversary, when the leadership surprised a long-serving employee with a Hyundai Venue car in recognition of his dedication and contribution. The gesture spoke volumes about the company’s belief in celebrating commitment, not just results.

Scaling Global Ambitions from Kozhikode

Today, CodeAce operates from its standalone office at the Government Cyberpark, Kozhikode, with nearly 90% of its clientele based in Europe and the US. The company’s growth trajectory underscores the potential of regional innovation hubs in powering global technology businesses.

“Our success demonstrates that world-class solutions can emerge from cities beyond traditional tech hubs,” says Sarath Kumar, COO, CodeAce. “Kozhikode has the talent, infrastructure, and mindset needed to build globally relevant enterprises.”

The Road Ahead

CodeAce now has its sights set on scaling further. The company aims to touch ₹100 crore in revenue by 2028. It plans to open a new office in Dubai this October, followed by one in Bengaluru next year. In the coming years, it also intends to establish a corporate headquarters in Kozhikode while doubling its team size.

For Jijin and his team, the journey has always been about creating lasting impact; not just growing a business, but proving that world-class ventures can thrive from Kerala’s entrepreneurial soil.

From a late-night Google search to a global digital powerhouse, CodeAce’s rise reflects the power of curiosity, resilience, and vision, and stands as an inspiring example for a new generation of entrepreneurs building from India’s smaller cities.