Aavishkaar Venture Capital

Aavishkaar Venture Capital, established in 2001 by Vineet Rai, is a pioneering impact investment firm based in Mumbai, India. As a key entity within the broader Aavishkaar Group, the firm has distinguished itself by focusing on early-stage and growth-stage companies that serve rural and semi-urban populations across India, Southeast Asia, and Africa. Its core mission revolves around generating both financial returns and significant social and environmental impact, particularly in underserved markets.

Aavishkaar's investment strategy is deeply rooted in identifying scalable businesses that address critical development gaps. The firm primarily targets sectors vital for inclusive growth, including agriculture, healthcare, education, financial inclusion, clean energy, and water & sanitation. This sector-agnostic yet impact-driven approach allows Aavishkaar to support innovative enterprises that are not only commercially viable but also contribute to improving livelihoods and fostering sustainable development in emerging economies.

Over its two decades of operation, Aavishkaar Capital has successfully raised and deployed multiple funds, solidifying its position as a significant player in the impact investing landscape. The firm's commitment to its mission is underscored by its substantial capital base, with total assets under management (AUM) exceeding $400 million. Notable fund closes include the Aavishkaar Bharat Fund, which achieved a final close of $150 million in 2019, demonstrating strong investor confidence in their model. More recently, they have been raising the Aavishkaar India Fund VI, targeting $250 million, further expanding their capacity to invest. Aavishkaar typically deploys initial cheques ranging from $1 million to $15 million, reflecting their flexibility to support companies from their early growth phases through to more mature stages. The firm has invested in over 70 companies to date, building a diverse portfolio of impact-driven enterprises.