At a time when angel investors are eyeing Kerala’s startup ecosystem like never before, events like Seeding Kerala gains relevance. Former executive chairman at Infosys and Axilor Ventures Chairman, Kris Gopalakrishnan, in an exclusive interview with channeliam.com, explained about the aspects that he is looking for in startups as an investor.
Focuses as an investor
Kris Gopalakrishnan says that he look into various aspects of a startup before investing in it. Unique deep tech startups are his key preference. He also looks for the social angle in the startup. He added that he also observes co-investment opportunities too. Fintech, health tech, agri-tech, deep tech and B2B are other areas of focus. He invests in both early and late stage startups. Also, companies which are ready for IPO will also be preferred.
To startups hunting for investments
For early stage startups, there is a requirement of a large sum of money so as to get a minimum viable product. Events like Seeding Kerala provides with a good ecosystem for angel investors. While preparing to scale up, companies might face many challenges. If a company has profitable prospects, there is no need for any external investments. Around 5-6% of startups are able to scale up fastly. Only such startups should opt for outside investment. Also, investors prefers such startups. The remaining startups can stay as a profitable and sustainable business. This is the best way to gain control over the company’s future.Kris Gopalakrishan added that companies can try external funding through SME Exchange and IPO Round.
All businesses have good potential
Each industry is undergoing transformation now. All key sectors are developing their best technology to simplify operations and to better product offering. Technologies like AI and Genomics are gaining prominence.
We are currently in the best stage of economic growth. India now has a large market and a consumer base. Talented people still have the best of possibilities in respective areas, says Kris Gopalakrishnan.
