We often hear VCs saying location doesn't matter for startups. But if that's true, why don't we see more VC firms based in states like Madhya Pradesh?
How many venture capital firms can you name in Bihar, Chhattisgarh, or Jharkhand?
The numbers are disappointingly low and this disparity creates a significant disconnect.
While we preach that great ideas can come from anywhere, the capital and networks essential to nurture these ideas remain overwhelmingly concentrated in a few metro cities.
But things are changing and I recently witnessed this firsthand at an exceptional event in Gwalior organized by Fluid Ventures.
It brought together some of the most innovative thinkers and leaders in India's startup community, all under one roof.
The event was not just another startup gathering. It’s a reminder that innovation isn't limited to big cities. It's happening right here in smaller towns as well.
Experiencing this in my hometown hits me very differently.
It's one thing to read about change, but to experience it is entirely different. And I'm grateful I could contribute as a speaker, host, founder, and even gifting partner through Amrutam .
A huge thanks to the support and encouragement of Shmt. Priyadarshini Raje Scindia at the Gwalior Palace. It wouldn’t have come to life without your vision to make Gwalior grow and prosper.
A special thank you to Amit Singal and Rakhee Singal for spearheading this initiative in our city. For thinking about start-up ecosystems and building them in Tier 2 cities.
Let’s continue to work towards a more inclusive startup ecosystem across all of India.
How many venture capital firms can you name in Bihar, Chhattisgarh, or Jharkhand?
The numbers are disappointingly low and this disparity creates a significant disconnect.
While we preach that great ideas can come from anywhere, the capital and networks essential to nurture these ideas remain overwhelmingly concentrated in a few metro cities.
But things are changing and I recently witnessed this firsthand at an exceptional event in Gwalior organized by Fluid Ventures.
It brought together some of the most innovative thinkers and leaders in India's startup community, all under one roof.
The event was not just another startup gathering. It’s a reminder that innovation isn't limited to big cities. It's happening right here in smaller towns as well.
Experiencing this in my hometown hits me very differently.
It's one thing to read about change, but to experience it is entirely different. And I'm grateful I could contribute as a speaker, host, founder, and even gifting partner through Amrutam .
A huge thanks to the support and encouragement of Shmt. Priyadarshini Raje Scindia at the Gwalior Palace. It wouldn’t have come to life without your vision to make Gwalior grow and prosper.
A special thank you to Amit Singal and Rakhee Singal for spearheading this initiative in our city. For thinking about start-up ecosystems and building them in Tier 2 cities.
Let’s continue to work towards a more inclusive startup ecosystem across all of India.
The eChai Effect - In Their Words
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Hardik Manwani
CTO, Mind Alcove
"eChai has been a game-changer for Hungrito, providing us with invaluable connections, insights, and opportunities that have significantly fueled our growth. eChai has introduced us to a global network of entrepreneurs and experts, fueling our growth and opening doors to new opportunities from Ahmedabad to Dubai. The community has become like a second family to us, providing support, guidance, and valuable insights as startup entrepreneurs."
Sahil Shah
Founder- Hungrito & Netsavvies. Digital Marketing Evangelist
"eChai has played a truly pivotal role in HummingBird’s journey — even before Day Zero. From ideation to establishment and into growth, it’s been a constant source of support. It connected me with incredible people who’ve become more than just friends. One of the biggest reasons I chose to stay in Ahmedabad is because of the eChai community. It has shaped my growth — both personally and professionally — in ways that are hard to articulate. Honestly, words fall short when I try to express what eChai means to me. I’m deeply thankful and forever grateful to eChai for being such an integral part of my journey."
Harsha Bhurani
Founder, HummingBird Consulting Group
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eChai Ventures partners with select brands as their growth partner - working together to explore new ideas, open doors, and build momentum across the startup ecosystem.
