In a significant move to foster young entrepreneurial talent, Nikhil Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha, has announced the second cohort of WTFund, an initiative dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs under the age of 25. This cohort features 22 innovative founders selected from over 50 cities across India, including remote and tier 2 and 3 regions, reflecting the nation’s diverse entrepreneurial spirit.
WTFund offers grants of up to ₹20 lakh to each selected startup, along with mentorship and strategic partnerships aimed at scaling their impact. The fund’s mission is to democratize access to opportunities, serving as a launchpad for first-time founders and fostering a culture of innovation and resilience. Nikhil Kamath emphasized the unique energy young entrepreneurs bring, stating, “There’s something about being young—the audacity, the relentless energy, the willingness to take risks before the world tells you otherwise. WTFund exists to fuel that spirit.”
The second cohort encompasses a wide array of sectors, including Tech/SaaS, Direct-to-Consumer (D2C), EdTech, FinTech, HealthTech, AgriTech, and CleanTech. This diversity highlights the comprehensive approach of WTFund in addressing various industry challenges through innovative solutions.
Among the standout startups in this cohort are:
Nasadya (H2ive): Founded by Chaitanya Gulati, Subhechchha Paul, and Suhani Mohan, Nasadya develops advanced solid-state hydrogen storage solutions aimed at making industrial energy use safer, more affordable, and efficient.
InnerGize: This startup offers a wearable device designed to reduce chronic stress and anxiety using non-invasive technology, contributing to mental wellness.
Armatrix: Developed by Vishrant Dave, Prateesh Awasthi, and Ayush Ranjan, Armatrix focuses on industrial robotics, including flexible robotic arms tailored for hazardous environments, enhancing worker safety.
Drnk: Founded by Raj Thakkar and Aryan Gandhi, Drnk is a sustainable specialty beverage brand that emphasizes community-driven experiences, catering to Gen Z and Millennials.
Neoperk: An AI-powered soil testing solution aimed at improving agricultural productivity and sustainability, assisting farmers in reducing input costs and increasing yield quality.
The applications for this cohort demonstrated a strong mobile-first mindset across all tiers. Tier 1 startups are pioneering AI/ML-driven B2B solutions, while founders from Tier 2 and 3 cities are developing vernacular-first B2C innovations tailored for India’s diverse markets. These entrepreneurs are not only addressing local challenges but also creating solutions with global scalability, showcasing India’s readiness to make a significant impact on the world stage.
WTFund’s second cohort exemplifies the dynamic and diverse nature of India’s young entrepreneurial landscape. By providing financial support, mentorship, and strategic partnerships, Nikhil Kamath’s initiative is empowering the next generation of innovators to transform their visionary ideas into impactful realities, driving progress across various sectors.
Key Highlights:
- Nikhil Kamath’s WTFund has announced its second cohort, supporting 22 entrepreneurs under 25 with grants and mentorship.
- The selected startups span sectors such as Tech/SaaS, D2C, EdTech, FinTech, HealthTech, AgriTech, and CleanTech.
- Notable startups include Nasadya (H2ive), InnerGize, Armatrix, Drnk, and Neoperk, each addressing unique industry challenges.
- The initiative reflects a nationwide movement, with applications from over 50 cities, highlighting India’s diverse and dynamic entrepreneurial talent.