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Arise Ventures is a venture capital firm founded by Ankita Vashistha in 2020, with offices in Bengaluru, India, and San Francisco, USA. The firm has a strong commitment to supporting early-stage technology companies that are making a positive impact on society. Arise Ventures evolved from its predecessor, Saha Fund, which focused on women-led startups, and has since broadened its investment mandate while maintaining a gender-sensitive ethos. Approximately 60% of its portfolio companies are led by women, reflecting its dedication to inclusivity in the startup ecosystem.
As of now, Arise Ventures manages a fund size of $57 million and has invested in over 50 companies across various sectors. The firm emphasizes operational and strategic partnerships, providing its portfolio companies with essential resources, mentorship, and go-to-market execution support. Notable milestones include the launch of the Arise Accelerator and the Climate Change Innovators Cohort, both designed to foster innovation and growth among its startups.
Arise Ventures primarily invests in three key sectors: Consumer, Climate, and Enterprise. The firm targets early-stage companies that are disrupting traditional industries through innovative consumer brands and technology. In the consumer sector, Arise Ventures seeks startups that are transforming how products are marketed and delivered. For climate-focused investments, the firm looks for companies addressing the climate crisis with sustainable solutions, including sustainable foods and waste management.
In the enterprise sector, Arise Ventures focuses on B2B SaaS and DeepTech innovations, particularly in fintech, health tech, and cybersecurity. The firm typically invests at the seed, seed-plus, and Series A stages, with check sizes ranging from $250,000 to $2 million. Arise Ventures also emphasizes a cross-border investment strategy, helping Indian startups enter the U.S. market and other global markets.
Arise Ventures has built a diverse portfolio of over 50 companies, with notable investments including:
Ankita Vashistha - Founder & Managing Partner. Ankita has over 15 years of experience in private equity and venture capital. She previously founded Wavemaker Labs and managed Saha Fund, focusing on women-led startups.
Avinash Vashistha - General Partner. Avinash brings extensive experience in technology investments and operational management.
Frank Pendle - Venture Partner. Frank has a background in scaling tech startups and brings valuable insights into market strategies.
Naimeesha Murthy - Head of Product & Platform. Naimeesha specializes in product development and platform strategies for portfolio companies.
Abhay Vashistha - Venture Partner. Abhay has a strong background in investment analysis and portfolio management.
Sunanda Madan - Venture Partner. Sunanda focuses on operational support and strategic partnerships within the portfolio.
Somdutta Singh - Venture Partner. Somdutta has experience in technology and market entry strategies.
Anisha Patnaik - Venture Partner & General Counsel. Anisha provides legal guidance and support for portfolio companies.
Pushkina Nautiyal - Venture Advisor. Pushkina offers advisory support on investment strategies and market trends.
To pitch Arise Ventures, founders should submit their applications through the provided application form. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and team background. Founders can expect a response within a few weeks, and warm introductions are preferred but not mandatory.
Arise Ventures runs several notable programs to support its portfolio companies:
In February 2025, Arise Ventures confirmed the first close of its third fund at $11 million, targeting a total of $57 million. This fund will continue the firm's focus on early-stage investments in consumer, climate, and enterprise sectors.
Arise Ventures has been actively promoting its mission to support women entrepreneurs and technological innovation. The firm has been featured in various publications, including Inc42 and YourStory, highlighting its commitment to inclusivity and its evolving investment strategy.
What are Arise Ventures' investment criteria?
Arise Ventures invests in early-stage technology companies across consumer, climate, and enterprise sectors. The firm focuses on startups that are led by visionary founders and are addressing significant industry challenges.
How can I apply or pitch to Arise Ventures?
Founders can submit their applications or pitch decks through the Arise Ventures application form available at this link.
What makes Arise Ventures different from other VCs?
Arise Ventures has a strong focus on supporting women-led startups, with approximately 60% of its portfolio companies being women-led. The firm also emphasizes operational and strategic partnerships, providing extensive resources and mentorship to its portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of Arise Ventures?
Arise Ventures primarily invests in the United States and India, with a focus on helping Indian startups enter the U.S. market.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Arise Ventures typically invests between $250,000 and $2 million per deal, depending on the stage and needs of the startup.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
Arise Ventures provides operational support, mentorship, and access to a network of resources to help portfolio companies grow and succeed in their respective markets.
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