As India overcomes its image of a developing nation, it aims to look at solutions that align disruptive ideas, large markets and capable founders. The new generation entrepreneurs here set a vivid example of being at the helm of such a situation. However, transforming young companies into successful, scalable and sustainable businesses, it requires community, capital, partnership, continuous learning and access to resources. Identifying these opportunities and providing the required support for founders venture capital firm, Kalaari Capital, has launched a seed program named Kstart.
Kstart will nurture startups via systematic program to fast-track their growth. The program is based on five key components, which are as follows:
- Capital: The program will offer fair capital to founders of up to $500K via a convertible equity instrument
- Catalysts: The startup founders will have access to experience-based advice, committed guidance or open networks from the mentors called Kstart Catalysts to accelerate startup growth
- Partners: The program will have partners, who will provide portfolio companies an access to their platforms, technology and expertise
- Kstart Institute: Kstart Institute will help portfolio companies focus on important aspects of building and growing a technology-driven venture. Dr. Anil K Gupta, Professor, University of Maryland, will guide the development of the Kstart Institute curriculum
- Respace: Respace is an outcome of collaboration with 15 artists from around the world, who will foster peer-to-peer learning which will be in a form of meetups, workshops and industry events
Kstart has partnered with a set of distinguished leaders who will be called called Kstart catalysts to advise and guide the startups in their entrepreneurial journey. These catalysts include people like Rajan Anandan – VP & MD SE Asia & India Google, Varsha Rao – Head of Global Operations Airbnb, Ratan Tata – Chairman Emeritus, Tata Sons; Zia Mody– Managing Partner, AZB & Partners; Padmasree Warrior-CEO, NextEV Inc, USA; Muthiah V-Consultant, Spencer Stuart; Anil K. Gupta-Professor, University of Maryland and Meeta Malhotra, Former Partner, Ray + Keshavan. Kstart Catalysts will also be co-investors in the companies.
In September 2015, this Bangalore-based VC firm raised $290 Mn as its third India-centric fund. It has decided to use the fund in a span of three to four years, by investing $2-$5 Mn each in about 30 startups.
Startups can apply to the seed program at www.kstart.in. For details, please visit website.
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