November 27, 2024 : India’s startup ecosystem is being redefined, not just by bold ideas but by the bold women leading the charge in venture capital. These trailblazers are championing diversity, backing groundbreaking ventures, and building a more inclusive future for Indian entrepreneurship. Among the leading lights, five women-led VC firms stand tall—Kalaari Capital, Ankur Capital, Vertex Ventures, She Capital, and Sixth Sense Ventures.
1. Kalaari Capital: Pioneering Innovation
Vani Kola, the driving force behind Kalaari Capital, is a name synonymous with India’s startup story. Known for her sharp eye for innovation, she has backed transformative companies like Dream11, Myntra, and Snapdeal. Beyond funding, Vani is an advocate for mentoring women entrepreneurs, helping them rise above barriers and turn their visions into reality.
2. Ankur Capital: Investing in Impact
Co-founded by Ritu Verma, Ankur Capital focuses on solving India’s most pressing challenges in healthcare, agri-tech, and education. Ankur’s investments prioritise impact, supporting startups that improve lives in underserved communities. Ritu’s mission to drive social change through entrepreneurship has made Ankur a leader in purpose-driven venture funding.
3. Vertex Ventures: Bridging Vision with Venture
At Vertex Ventures, Kanika Mayar is driving change with her expertise and passion for fostering sustainable businesses. Vertex stands out for its ability to combine global insights with local understanding, backing some of India’s most innovative startups, including Licious and MyGate. Under Kanika’s leadership, the firm has carved a niche in sectors like fintech, SaaS, and healthcare, proving that long-term vision can coexist with rapid growth.
4. She Capital: Backing Women Founders
Founded by Anisha Singh, She Capital is laser-focused on women entrepreneurs, providing the financial backing and mentorship needed to scale their ventures. With investments in consumer-tech and health-tech startups, She Capital is helping women founders turn innovative ideas into thriving businesses, breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries.
5. Sixth Sense Ventures: Pioneering Consumer-Centric Investments
Led by Nimisha Nagarsekar, Sixth Sense Ventures is transforming the Indian startup ecosystem with its focus on innovative, consumer-driven businesses. Nimisha has played a pivotal role in identifying and nurturing groundbreaking ventures that resonate with modern consumers. Sixth Sense Ventures actively supports women-led startups, furthering its commitment to diversity and inclusion in venture capital. With investments in brands like SUGAR Cosmetics, the firm continues to empower visionary women founders and redefine India’s consumer landscape.
