Ritesh Agarwal

Ritesh Agarwal, the visionary founder and Group CEO of OYO, has emerged as a prominent angel investor in the Indian startup ecosystem. Leveraging his extensive experience in building a decacorn from the ground up, Agarwal primarily focuses on early-stage companies, offering not just capital but also invaluable mentorship and strategic guidance. His investment philosophy centers on backing passionate founders with innovative ideas and strong execution potential, often in sectors he understands well, such as consumer technology, mobility, and ed-tech.

Agarwal's personal investment portfolio is diverse, spanning various high-growth segments. He has notably invested in over 20 startups, demonstrating a consistent commitment to fostering the next generation of Indian entrepreneurs. His investments include prominent names like Unacademy, a leading ed-tech platform, and BluSmart Mobility, an electric ride-hailing service, showcasing his interest in disruptive business models.

Typically, Ritesh Agarwal's first cheques for these early-stage ventures range from approximately $100,000 to $500,000. These investments are often part of larger seed or pre-Series A rounds, where he co-invests alongside established venture capital firms. His involvement is seen as a significant validation for young companies, given his journey with OYO, which has become one of India's most recognized global hospitality brands. His active participation as an angel investor underscores his belief in India's startup potential and his desire to contribute to its continued growth.