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Dekko ISHO Venture Capital (DIVC) is a corporate venture capital firm established in 2021 in Dhaka, Bangladesh. As the venture arm of Dekko ISHO Group, one of the largest conglomerates in the country, DIVC aims to support innovative startups with high growth potential. The firm operates as an evergreen fund, allowing for longer investment horizons compared to traditional venture capital structures.
Since its inception, DIVC has focused on early-stage investments, primarily in Bangladesh, but also maintains a presence in Singapore. The firm emphasizes sectors such as fintech, agtech, and healthcare, aligning its investment strategy with the growth of technology-driven startups. Notable milestones include leading investments in Bangladesh's first venture studio, Turtle Venture Studio, and backing various startups that address sustainability and social impact.
As of now, DIVC manages a portfolio of five companies, leveraging the resources and expertise of the Dekko ISHO Group to provide strategic support to its portfolio companies. This support includes operational expertise, market access, and introductions to potential partners and investors.
Dekko ISHO Venture Capital primarily invests in early-stage, technology-driven startups across several sectors, including fintech, agtech, and healthcare. The firm targets companies at the pre-seed, seed, and seed+ (extension) stages, with check sizes ranging from $1 million to $10 million. This investment strategy reflects a commitment to supporting startups that demonstrate significant growth potential and innovation.
DIVC's investment thesis emphasizes backing founders who possess grit, vision, and a clear understanding of their market challenges. The firm prioritizes sustainability and social impact as thematic filters, seeking startups that not only aim for financial success but also contribute positively to society. The firm is particularly interested in sectors such as CleanTech, Cybersecurity, AI, and deep tech, which align with its focus on addressing complex challenges through technology.
In addition to financial backing, DIVC provides hands-on support to its portfolio companies, assisting with strategy, hiring, legal matters, and marketing. This active involvement distinguishes DIVC from passive investors, as it aims to foster long-term growth and innovation within the Bangladeshi startup ecosystem.
Dekko ISHO Venture Capital has built a diverse portfolio of five notable companies, each contributing to various sectors:
These companies reflect DIVC's commitment to investing in technology-driven solutions that address pressing challenges in Bangladesh and beyond. The firm continues to seek opportunities that align with its focus on sustainability and innovation.
To pitch to Dekko ISHO Venture Capital, founders should use the application page available at di.vc/apply. The firm prefers a clear and concise pitch deck that outlines the startup's vision, market opportunity, and business model. Founders should include information about their team, traction, and financial projections.
Response times may vary, but DIVC aims to review applications promptly. Warm introductions are beneficial, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
Recent activity from Dekko ISHO Venture Capital includes leading a $1 million investment round in Turtle Venture Studio, Bangladesh's first venture studio, which occurred between 2022 and 2023. This investment highlights DIVC's commitment to fostering innovation in the Bangladeshi startup ecosystem.
Additionally, DIVC has made investments in several notable companies, including Markopolo.ai, a deep tech AI marketing platform, and Ecovia, a sustainable tech company. These investments reflect the firm's focus on technology-driven solutions that address pressing challenges in various sectors.
What are the investment criteria for Dekko ISHO Venture Capital?
Dekko ISHO Venture Capital invests in early-stage, technology-driven startups primarily in Bangladesh. The firm focuses on sectors such as fintech, agtech, and healthcare, and looks for companies that demonstrate significant growth potential and innovation.
How can startups apply or pitch to DIVC?
Startups interested in pitching to Dekko ISHO Venture Capital can visit their application page at di.vc/apply. The firm encourages founders to present their vision, market understanding, and the potential impact of their solutions.
What makes Dekko ISHO Venture Capital different from other VCs?
Dekko ISHO Venture Capital operates as an evergreen fund, allowing for longer investment horizons compared to traditional VC structures. Additionally, the firm provides active support to its portfolio companies, including strategic guidance, operational expertise, and access to a broader network.
What is the geographic scope of DIVC's investments?
While DIVC primarily focuses on Bangladesh, it also maintains a presence in Singapore and is open to exploring opportunities in other regions within Asia.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Dekko ISHO Venture Capital typically invests between $1 million and $10 million per company, depending on the stage and potential of the startup.
What kind of post-investment involvement can startups expect?
DIVC takes an active role in supporting its portfolio companies post-investment. This includes assistance with strategy, hiring, legal matters, and marketing, as well as introductions to potential partners and investors.
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