An Indian investor, Natasha Malpani, has announced the launch of a new Rs 200 crore fund aimed at backing homegrown AI startups. The move signals a strong push to fuel India’s AI ecosystem and help startups scale from seed to growth stages.
A bold bet on India’s AI future
The fund will focus on Indian founders building practical AI products across sectors such as healthcare, fintech, agritech, education, and enterprise software. It seeks to back early-stage ventures that show clear product-market fit and potential to reach global markets. Along with capital, the fund promises hands-on support to help startups refine technology, scale teams, and navigate regulatory and data challenges specific to India.
What the fund offers beyond capital
- Mentorship from experienced operators who have built and scaled AI platforms.
- Access to a broad network of corporate partners, customers, and industry experts.
- Support with product strategy, go-to-market plans, and talent development.
- Guidance on responsible AI, data governance, and compliance in the Indian context.
Why now for India’s AI scene
India’s AI momentum is defined by rapid digitization, a thriving startup culture, and a growing pool of tech talent. With a large consumer base and rising adoption of AI-driven services, Indian startups are well positioned to create affordable, scalable solutions. The fund taps into this energy, aiming to reduce time-to-market for ambitious AI products and help them compete globally.
How Indian founders can apply
- The fund targets early-stage AI ventures ready to scale.
- Focus areas include healthcare AI, financial services AI, agritech analytics, and enterprise AI applications.
- Applications are expected to come through a streamlined process designed to identify teams with strong technical foundations and a clear path to market.
Building India’s AI future
This initiative aligns with India’s larger push to become a global hub for AI innovation. By pairing capital with operational support, the fund hopes to shorten the journey from concept to commercial impact. For Indian founders, it offers a pathway to scale faster, attract international interest, and create jobs across the country.