IAN Group has closed its second venture capital vehicle, the IAN Alpha Fund, at USD 100 million, strengthening its position as India’s largest early-stage investment platform. The fund will back high-potential early-stage startups and MSMEs led by strong founders solving real-world problems through technology and innovation, particularly in areas tied to India’s strategic priorities.
Deep tech remains central to the fund’s thesis, but IAN has adopted a balanced risk-mitigation strategy that pairs long-gestation innovation-driven ventures with shorter-cycle businesses. This structure aims to deliver competitive returns while supporting frontier technologies that require patient capital.
Since launch, the Alpha Fund has already invested in 10–12 startups spanning AI, space tech, semiconductors, biotech, and indigenous innovations in healthcare, climate, manufacturing and cybersecurity, including founders emerging from Tier II and III cities.
Investor confidence remained strong, with participation from marquee government and institutional investors, including DPIIT’s Fund of Funds (Sidbi-managed), Self Reliant India Fund, ACE Fund, Odisha Startup Growth Fund, Agri Sure Fund of Funds (Nabventures), along with Buimerc Corporation, HDFC Life, DS Group Family Office, NABARD, and several family offices. A large share of commitments came from returning investors, underscoring trust in IAN’s two-decade track record.
IAN’s portfolio now comprises 250+ companies valued at nearly USD 10 billion across sectors such as space tech, biotech, defence tech, AI/ML, SaaS, robotics, fintech and consumer tech. Founder-first mentorship long seen as IAN’s competitive edge remains integral to the fund’s approach, offering startups governance support, strategic direction and market access.
Co-founder Saurabh Srivastava said the fund aims to convert India’s challenges into scalable, innovation-led global businesses. Padmaja Ruparel emphasised the fund’s focus on tech-led solutions for national imperatives, supported by deep mentoring and governance frameworks. Chintan Thakkar, Group CEO, added that IAN’s platform enables founders to raise between Rs 50 lakh and Rs 50 crore with expert handholding.
With its blend of capital, mentorship and strategic networks, the IAN Alpha Fund is helping build the next generation of Indian innovators strengthening national capability, creating jobs and pushing India closer to becoming a global innovation hub.
