In an interview with TechGraph, Dr. Sunil Shekhawat, CEO of SanchiConnect discussed the overall growth and funding environment for deep tech startups in the Indian market.
Read the complete interview:
TechGraph: Can you tell us more about SanchiConnect’s funding platform and how it differs from other investment platforms available to deep-tech startups?
Dr. Sunil Shekhawat: SanchiConnect is a scale-up platform specifically designed for deep tech startups. What sets us apart from other platforms is our focus on streamlining fundraising and early go-to-market processes for founders. We hold a diverse network of over 110 investment partners, including venture capitalists, angel networks, and investment syndicates.
Our platform also connects startups with top-tier talent and a network of service providers specialized in meeting startups’ unique needs. The combination of funding opportunities, customer connections, talent access, and tailored support makes SanchiConnect a comprehensive solution for deep tech startups.
TechGraph: How does SanchiConnect help deep tech startups identify and connect with potential investors interested in their technology?
Dr. Sunil Shekhawat: SanchiConnect helps deep tech startups identify and connect with potential funds with thesis alignment through its proprietary platform and network. Through a rigorous process, startups are curated, who later receive access to our extensive network of investment partners interested in deep tech startups.
We facilitate introductions, organize pitching events, and provide a platform for startups to showcase their technology to potential investors. By facilitating these connections, SanchiConnect enhances the chances of deep tech startups finding the right investors for their technology.
TechGraph: What is the state of the deep-tech startup and funding environment in the Indian market?
Dr. Sunil Shekhawat: The deep tech startup and funding environment in the Indian market is witnessing significant growth and opportunities. India is becoming a global hub for deep tech innovation, with startups emerging in areas such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, biotechnology, and clean energy.
The government and private sector actively support deep tech startups through initiatives, funding programs, and incubation centers. However, challenges such as access to early-stage capital, talent retention, and market adoption remain. Overall, the Indian market offers immense potential for deep tech startups, and SanchiConnect aims to bridge the gap between startups and investors to unlock this potential.
TechGraph: What role does SanchiConnect play in helping deep tech startups prepare for and pitch their technology to investors?
Dr. Sunil Shekhawat: SanchiConnect plays a crucial role in helping deep tech startups prepare for and pitch their technology to investors. We have proprietary tools to facilitate the creation of pitch decks, business models, and go-to-market strategies.
We also organize pitching events and investor showcases where startups can directly pitch their technology to a targeted audience of potential investors. By providing these resources and opportunities, SanchiConnect empowers deep tech startups to effectively communicate their value proposition and attract investor interest.
TechGraph: Can you share any success stories of deep-tech startups that have used SanchiConnect to secure funding from investors? What were the key factors of their success?
Dr. Sunil Shekhawat: We have witnessed a significant number of success stories of deep tech startups securing funding through SanchiConnect. The key factors contributing to their success include the uniqueness and potential impact of their technology. They also have a strong and passionate founding team, a scalable business model, and the ability to articulate their value proposition effectively.
By leveraging SanchiConnect resources and connections, these startups connected with the right investors who recognized the value of their technology and supported their growth. Each success story is unique, but the common thread is the alignment between the startup’s technology and the investor’s interest, facilitated by SanchiConnect’s platform.
TechGraph: How does SanchiConnect ensure transparency and fair investment processes for both deep tech startups and investors?
Dr. Sunil Shekhawat: SanchiConnect ensures transparency and fairness in the investment process by maintaining an open ecosystem post-onboarding. The power of initiating and taking forward the conversation remains purely in the founders’ and investors’ hands with intervention only when needed.
We strive to provide clear and comprehensive information about startups to investors, including detailed profiles, business plans, financials, and key metrics. We facilitate direct interactions between startups and investors, allowing both parties to engage in due diligence and negotiate investment terms. Our commitment to transparency and fairness is fundamental to building trust and fostering successful partnerships between startups and investors.
TechGraph: How do you see the deep tech landscape evolving in the next few years, and what opportunities and challenges do you anticipate for SanchiConnect in this context?
Dr. Sunil Shekhawat: The deep tech landscape is poised for a significant evolution in the coming years. Advancements in technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, robotics, and biotechnology will continue to drive innovation and disruption across industries. This presents both opportunities and challenges for SanchiConnect. The opportunities lie in the growing demand for deep tech solutions and the increasing interest from investors in this space.
SanchiConnect can leverage its platform and network to connect startups with these opportunities and facilitate their growth. The challenges include keeping pace with rapidly evolving technologies, maintaining a high-quality network of startups and investors, and adapting to the changing investment landscape. SanchiConnect is committed to staying at the forefront of these developments and evolving its platform to address emerging opportunities and challenges.