The D2C (Direct-to-Consumer) landscape in India is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by innovative brands that are forging strong, direct relationships with their customers. For these emerging companies, securing early-stage funding is a critical step to fuel expansion, build brand equity, and stand out in a competitive market. In this dynamic environment, angel networks have emerged as a cornerstone of the startup funding ecosystem, providing not just financial backing but also invaluable mentorship and strategic connections.
Here is an overview of some of the most impactful angel networks in India that are actively shaping the future of D2C startups.
- AngelList India
AngelList India serves as a crucial platform for deal syndication, enabling accredited angel investors to collectively invest in promising Indian startups. The network simplifies the entire investment process, allowing founders to efficiently onboard a group of value-adding investors. It also offers resources beyond funding, such as a talent platform to help startups recruit top-tier professionals.
- Founders: Naval Ravikant and Babak Nivi
- Inception: 2018
- Investments (As of 2024): 500+
- Notable investments: Chingari, Nap Chief, GoodMylk, ScaleNut, Sleepy Owl
- Website: https://www.angellist.com/
- ah! Ventures
Known for its meticulous startup selection process, ah! Ventures is a significant fundraising platform for early-stage ventures. With a network of over 3,000 investors, the platform has a strong track record of backing innovative startups. Its curated approach ensures that it connects high-potential companies with the right investors, facilitating strategic growth.
- Founders: Abhijeet Kumar, Harshad Lahoti
- Inception: 2009
- Investments (As of 2024): 176
- Notable investments: Bibo, Barney’s. Adyaway, Snackible, Flistaa, Zasket, House of Brands
- Website: https://www.ahventures.in/
- Mumbai Angels Network
Mumbai Angels is a top-tier angel investing platform that boasts an impressive portfolio of companies. With a robust network of over 700 investors, the network has successfully facilitated numerous investments and exits. Their focus on a process-driven approach and a commitment to helping portfolio companies achieve successful exits makes them a valuable partner for founders.
- Founders: Prashant Choksey, Praveen Chakravarty
- Inception: 2006
- Investments (As of 2024): 200
- Notable investments: Vahdam, Snackible, Milk Mantra, Purplle, Fitpass, Myntra, WickedGüd, Eat Better Ventures, Woolly Farms
- Website: https://www.mumbaiangels.com
- The Chennai Angels
Established to nurture entrepreneurship, The Chennai Angels (TCA) is dedicated to mentoring and supporting new ventures. Beyond providing capital, TCA’s investor base actively guides entrepreneurs through every stage of their fundraising journey and provides access to a powerful network of industry leaders and potential partners.
- Founders: Ramaraj R.
- Inception: 2007
- Investments (As of 2024): 105
- Notable investments: The Indus Valley, Bumberry, D’Moksha Homes, MangoPoint, The Postbox, Qua
- Website: https://www.thechennaiangels.com
- Venture Catalysts
As an integrated incubator, Venture Catalysts offers comprehensive support that includes funding, mentorship, and a vast global network. With thousands of angel investors across multiple cities and countries, it is a dominant force in the early-stage investment space, providing strategic guidance and leveraging its network to help startups scale.
- Founders: Anil Jain, Anuj Golecha, Apoorva Ranjan Sharma, Gaurav Jain
- Inception: 2016
- Investments (As of 2024): 348
- Notable investments: Beardo, AutoBrix, Betel Leaf Co, Chupps, Cub McPaws, Desi Farms, F5, Fyre, Melorra
- Website: http://venturecatalysts.in/
- Chandigarh Angels Network
The Chandigarh Angels Network (CAN) is a collective of angel investors focused on funding early-stage ventures. The network provides crucial support, including valuable feedback on business plans, mentoring, and access to a professional network to help founders navigate the challenges of the startup journey.
- Founder: Alok Ramsisaria
- Inception: 2015
- Investments (As of 2024): 28
- Notable investments: Biryani by Kilo, The Gourmet Jar, JumboBasket, Paymart India, FREED, Barneys
- Website: https://chandigarhangelsnetwork.com/
- Delhi Angel Network
The Delhi Angel Network is a distinguished player in the angel investment space, focusing on a unique value proposition for startups. The network specializes in transforming a startup’s vision into a professionally crafted, investor-ready pitch deck and a sound financial model. By providing these essential tools, the Delhi Angel Network empowers founders to make a strong and credible case to potential investors, increasing their chances of securing capital. It acts as a vital bridge between a founder’s innovative idea and the strategic presentation required to attract serious funding.
- Founders: Raushan Kumar
- Inception: 2016
- Website: https://www.delhiangelnetwork.in/
- Indian Angel Network
As one of India’s oldest and most respected angel networks, the Indian Angel Network (IAN) provides more than just capital. With hundreds of investors from around the world, IAN offers consistent access to expert mentorship, strategic guidance, and a global network that can be leveraged for sustained growth.
- Founders: Alok Mittal, Padmaja Ruparel
- Inception: 2006
- Investments (As of 2024): 225
- Notable investments: Box8, Fab Alley, Wow! Momo, PMaps, WorkOnGrid, QwikSkills
- Website: http://www.indianangelnetwork.com/
- Let’s Venture
Let’s Venture has revolutionized the fundraising process by creating a platform that allows startups to connect with accredited investors seamlessly. The network is committed to providing actionable insights and mentorship through its “Founders First” initiative, helping entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.
- Founders: Shanti Mohan, Sanjay Jha
- Inception: 2013
- Investments (As of 2024): 261
- Notable investments: Sugar Cosmetics, PMaps, Xook, pumpumpum, Frendy, Almo wear, Bobble, LBB, Yulu
- Website: http://letsventure.com/
- Lead Angels Network
Lead Angels is a prominent alumni-focused angel group that invests in early-stage companies. Beyond providing capital, the network offers post-investment support in key areas such as future fundraising, business development, and talent acquisition, helping them achieve long-term success.
- Founders: Dhruv Nath, Sushanto Mitra
- Inception: 2013
- Investments (As of 2024): 80
- Notable investments: Supr, Indus Valley, ChefKart, Go Desi, Belita, Tin Men
- Website: http://www.leadangels.in