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Shastra VC is a venture capital firm founded in 2022 and based in India. The firm specializes in early-stage investments in frontier technology, climate technology, and artificial intelligence (AI). Shastra VC manages over $60 million in assets under management (AUM) and has built a portfolio of over 30 companies. The firm emphasizes supporting founders who prioritize belief and conviction over traditional metrics, aiming to address some of the world's most pressing challenges through innovative solutions.
Shastra VC actively collaborates with other venture capitalists and engages in initiatives like the SDEX fellowship, which fosters research-to-venture pipelines. This fellowship offers equity-free grants to help convert academic research into venture-ready companies. The firm’s commitment to the deep tech ecosystem positions it as a key player in the global investment landscape.
Shastra VC invests across several sectors, including climate technology, frontier technology, and AI-driven software. The firm targets early-stage companies that are addressing complex global challenges through breakthrough science and scalable solutions. Specific areas of interest include space technology, advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, biotechnology, quantum computing, and AI-native software businesses. Their investment strategy emphasizes backing visionary founders who are developing scalable solutions to complex global issues.
Investment stages range from Pre Seed to Series A, with check sizes between $200,000 and $3 million. Shastra VC seeks to partner with founders who demonstrate a strong belief in their vision and the potential impact of their innovations. The firm’s approach to investment is characterized by a preference for conviction-driven decision-making rather than solely relying on traditional metrics.
Shastra VC has invested in over 30 startups, showcasing a diverse portfolio that spans various sectors. Notable companies include:
These investments reflect Shastra VC's commitment to supporting innovative solutions across various sectors, particularly in deep tech and climate technology.
Vasant Rao: Managing Partner with extensive experience in venture capital and deep tech investments.
Avijeet Alagathi: Managing Partner known for his expertise in scaling startups and strategic investments.
Ashish Nayak: Founding Partner with a background in technology and entrepreneurship, focusing on innovative solutions.
Jivesh Madan: Vice President who brings experience in operational support and portfolio management.
Pratiti Chakraborty: Compliance and Portfolio Management specialist ensuring regulatory adherence and operational efficiency.
Shachi Jalote: Investment Analyst focusing on market research and due diligence for potential investments.
Hansika: Investment Fellow contributing to deal sourcing and analysis.
Aditya Ray: Investment Fellow involved in supporting portfolio companies and research initiatives.
Saarthak Laturiya: Investment Fellow assisting in investment analysis and strategic planning.
To pitch to Shastra VC, founders should visit their pitch page at Shastra VC's website. The firm prefers pitches that include a clear vision, the problem being addressed, and the potential impact of the solution. Founders should expect a response within a few weeks after submission.
Shastra VC runs the SDEX Fellowship, designed for researchers and innovators in deep tech. This program lasts 16-18 weeks and offers up to $100,000 in equity-free funding. The fellowship includes two tracks: a Challenge Track with industry-aligned problem statements and an Open Track for open-ended submissions. The application deadline has been extended to February 28, 2026.
Shastra VC has been actively investing in a diverse range of startups, with notable recent activities including:
These activities highlight Shastra VC's commitment to supporting innovative solutions across various sectors, particularly in deep tech and climate technology.
What are Shastra VC's investment criteria?
Shastra VC focuses on early-stage investments in frontier technology, climate technology, and AI. They seek visionary founders who are addressing complex global challenges through scalable solutions.
How can I apply or pitch to Shastra VC?
Interested parties can pitch by visiting Shastra VC's pitch page. They encourage submissions that highlight the founder's vision and the potential impact of their innovations.
What makes Shastra VC different from other venture capital firms?
Shastra VC prioritizes belief and conviction over traditional metrics, focusing on founders who are tackling significant global challenges. Their commitment to initiatives like the SDEX fellowship further distinguishes them as a deep tech ecosystem builder.
What is the geographic scope of Shastra VC's investments?
Shastra VC invests globally, with a particular focus on India and the United States. They are open to opportunities in various regions as long as the startups align with their investment thesis.
What is the typical fund size and check size for investments?
Shastra VC manages a fund size of $60 million, with check sizes ranging from $200,000 to $3 million for their investments.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Shastra VC have?
Shastra VC provides not only capital but also strategic guidance and access to a network of industry experts and partners, helping portfolio companies grow and innovate.
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