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Ankur Capital is a venture capital firm established in 2014 and based in Mumbai, India. The firm focuses on early-stage investments in startups that leverage technology to address significant societal and environmental challenges. Ankur Capital was founded with the mission to support entrepreneurs who are pioneering innovations in overlooked markets, particularly in digital technology and deep science technology.
As of now, Ankur Capital manages assets totaling approximately $150 million and has invested in 31 companies across various sectors. The firm operates from its office located at Unit 5 Jetha Compound, Byculla (E), Mumbai 400027. Ankur Capital has gained recognition for its commitment to creating a positive impact through its investments, emphasizing responsible agriculture, climate mitigation, and inclusive growth.
Notable milestones include the successful exit of Koral, a company acquired by Captain Fresh, which highlights Ankur Capital's ability to identify and support high-potential startups. The firm is currently raising its third fund, targeting advanced technologies and decarbonization.
Ankur Capital invests primarily in two thematic areas: Digital Technology and Deep Science Technology. The Digital Technology sector includes companies that utilize technology to redefine and unlock markets, enhancing accessibility and efficiency. The Deep Science Technology sector focuses on startups that leverage scientific advancements to create fundamental changes across various industries, including synthetic biology, artificial intelligence, and battery chemistry.
The firm targets early-stage investments, specifically in the pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, and Series A stages. Initial check sizes range from $1 million to $2 million, with follow-on investments potentially reaching up to $10 million. Ankur Capital's geographic focus is primarily on Asia, with a strong emphasis on India. The firm seeks passionate founders who are building breakthroughs for a better world, particularly in sectors that address climate change and healthcare challenges.
Ankur Capital's portfolio consists of 31 companies, showcasing a diverse range of innovations across various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies exemplify Ankur Capital's commitment to investing in technologies that address significant societal and environmental challenges. The firm has also achieved notable exits, including the acquisition of Koral, which underscores its ability to identify high-potential startups.
Rema Subramanian: Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Ankur Capital, Rema has extensive experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship. She has a strong background in supporting early-stage startups and has been instrumental in the firm's growth.
Ritu Verma: Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Ritu brings a wealth of knowledge in technology and investment. Her expertise lies in identifying high-potential startups and guiding them through their growth phases.
Krishnan Neelakantan: Partner at Ankur Capital, Krishnan has a background in technology and finance, focusing on investments in deep science and digital technology sectors.
Kamakshi Rao: Venture Partner, Kamakshi specializes in supporting portfolio companies with operational strategies and market entry.
Shiva Shanker: Partner at Ankur Capital, Shiva has a strong track record in venture capital and is involved in sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities.
Burzin Dubash: Chief Operating Officer, Burzin oversees the firm's operations and ensures efficient management of portfolio companies.
Vishal Aman: Member of the Investment Team, Vishal focuses on evaluating potential investments and supporting portfolio companies.
Naveli Jain: Member of the Investment Team, Naveli is involved in deal sourcing and due diligence processes.
Vishal Katariya: Member of the Investment Team, Vishal contributes to investment analysis and portfolio management.
Startups interested in pitching to Ankur Capital should send their proposals via email to info@ankurcapital.com. It is important to include a comprehensive deck that outlines the business model, market analysis, and team background. Ankur Capital appreciates well-structured pitches that clearly convey the startup's vision and potential impact.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
Ankur Capital operates a platform called AnkurGro, designed to accelerate company building by providing support beyond capital. This platform offers resources and mentorship to help startups scale effectively. Specific details about program durations, cohort sizes, or investment amounts were not provided.
Additionally, Ankur Capital publishes insights and reports, including TechSprouts, focused on deep science innovations, and hosts the Deep Science Forum, which is India's flagship deep science gathering.
In recent months, Ankur Capital has been actively engaging with its portfolio companies, showcasing its commitment to supporting innovative startups. The firm has highlighted investments in companies like Vegrow and Niramai, which are making significant strides in digital supply chains and healthcare technology, respectively.
Additionally, Ankur Capital is in the process of raising its third fund, targeting approximately $150 million to invest in advanced technologies and decarbonization efforts. This fund aims to further enhance the firm's portfolio and support its mission of creating a positive societal impact.
What are Ankur Capital's investment criteria?
Ankur Capital primarily invests in early-stage startups in the pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, and Series A stages. The firm focuses on companies that leverage technology to address societal and environmental challenges, particularly in the sectors of digital technology and deep science technology.
How can startups apply or pitch to Ankur Capital?
What makes Ankur Capital different from other venture capital firms?
Ankur Capital distinguishes itself through its focus on impactful investments in overlooked markets. The firm emphasizes supporting entrepreneurs who are pioneering innovations that can lead to significant societal and environmental improvements.
What is Ankur Capital's geographic scope?
The firm primarily focuses on investments in Asia, with a strong emphasis on India. Ankur Capital seeks to support startups that are addressing challenges specific to these regions.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Ankur Capital typically invests between $1 million and $2 million in initial funding rounds, with the potential for follow-on investments of up to $10 million as companies grow and require additional capital.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Ankur Capital have?
Ankur Capital provides strategic support beyond capital through its platform, AnkurGro, which accelerates company building. The firm emphasizes mentorship and resources to help portfolio companies scale effectively.
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