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Stellaris Venture Partners is a Bengaluru-based venture capital firm founded in 2016 by former partners of Helion Ventures. The firm specializes in early-stage investments, focusing on technology companies that are shaping the future across various sectors. Stellaris has successfully closed three funds, raising over $575 million, which positions it as a significant player in the Indian venture capital landscape.
As of now, Stellaris manages total assets under management (AUM) of approximately $320 million. The firm operates with a conviction-led investment philosophy, emphasizing long-term partnerships with founders and deep operational involvement. Stellaris has established a reputation for backing innovative startups that are addressing critical needs in consumer technology, fintech, healthcare, and sustainability.
Stellaris is strategically located in Bangalore, India, and has a diverse limited partner base, including notable institutions such as the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and British International Investment (BII). The firm is committed to supporting its portfolio companies through active mentorship and sector-specific expertise.
Stellaris Venture Partners primarily invests in early-stage companies, specifically targeting Seed and Series A rounds. The firm focuses on sectors such as consumer technology, software, fintech, healthcare, and sustainability. Stellaris employs a founder-first approach, ensuring that they provide informed support through a sector-specialist team that understands the unique challenges and opportunities within these industries.
The firm aims to make 25 to 30 new investments per fund over a three-year period, concentrating on both Indian and global markets. Stellaris emphasizes a conviction-led investment strategy, which means they seek to build long-term partnerships with founders who demonstrate a strong vision and capability to execute their business plans. This approach allows Stellaris to engage deeply with its portfolio companies, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and operational support.
Stellaris Venture Partners has a diverse portfolio of 44 companies, showcasing its commitment to early-stage technology investments. Notable portfolio companies include:
Other notable investments include Arrowhead, a voice AI platform for BFSI, and Cirkla, which focuses on sustainable packaging. Stellaris continues to expand its portfolio with innovative startups that align with its investment thesis.
Ritesh Banglani: Co-founder and Partner, previously with Helion Ventures, specializes in early-stage investments and has a strong background in technology.
Alok Goyal: Co-founder and Partner, also a former Helion Ventures partner, focuses on consumer technology and fintech investments.
Rahul Chowdhri: Co-founder and Partner, brings extensive experience in venture capital and has led numerous successful investments in technology startups.
Naman Lahoty: Partner, promoted recently, has a strong focus on operational excellence and strategic growth for portfolio companies.
Chetan GMS: CFO, responsible for financial management and strategic planning within the firm.
Praseedha Premnath: General Counsel, oversees legal matters and compliance for Stellaris.
Vardhan Dharnidharka: Principal, specializes in AI/ML investments and has a background in technology consulting.
To pitch Stellaris Venture Partners, founders should visit their website at stellarisvp.com and submit their pitch through the provided channels. It is recommended to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market analysis, and team qualifications. Founders can also reach out via email at joveena@stellarisvp.com for direct inquiries.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Stellaris values warm introductions, so leveraging connections within their network can enhance the chances of securing a meeting.
In November 2024, Stellaris Venture Partners closed its third fund at $300 million, with Cisco Investments confirmed as a limited partner. This fund aims to continue supporting early-stage technology companies in India and beyond.
Stellaris has made notable investments in recent years, including companies like Turno, which focuses on EV financing, and Kiwi, a credit-on-UPI platform. The firm continues to expand its portfolio with innovative startups that align with its investment thesis.
What are Stellaris Venture Partners' investment criteria?
Stellaris primarily invests in early-stage technology companies at Seed and Series A stages. The firm focuses on sectors such as consumer technology, fintech, healthcare, software, and sustainability. They look for founders with a strong vision and the capability to execute their business plans effectively.
How can I pitch to Stellaris Venture Partners?
Founders can pitch their startups by visiting the Stellaris website at stellarisvp.com. They can also reach out via email at joveena@stellarisvp.com. It is advisable to include a clear business model, market analysis, and the team’s background in the pitch deck.
What makes Stellaris different from other venture capital firms?
Stellaris emphasizes a conviction-led investment approach, which means they engage deeply with their portfolio companies, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and operational support. Their founder-first philosophy ensures that they prioritize long-term partnerships with the startups they invest in.
What is the geographic focus of Stellaris Venture Partners?
The firm primarily focuses on investments in India but also considers opportunities in global markets. Their expertise in the Indian market allows them to identify and support innovative startups that can scale effectively.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Stellaris targets early-stage investments, typically ranging from Seed to Series A funding rounds. They aim to support 25 to 30 new investments per fund over a three-year period.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive post-investment?
Stellaris provides active mentorship, strategic guidance, and sector-specific expertise to its portfolio companies. The firm engages in deep operational involvement to help startups scale effectively and navigate challenges in their growth journey.
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