
Binny Bansal
Description
Binny Bansal is a seminal figure in the Indian startup ecosystem, best known as the co-founder of Flipkart, one of India's most successful e-commerce ventures. Following Flipkart's monumental acquisition by Walmart for approximately $16 billion in 2018, Bansal transitioned from an operational role to become a prolific investor and mentor. His deep understanding of scaling technology businesses, honed during Flipkart's rapid growth, provides him with a unique vantage point for identifying and nurturing promising startups. He leverages this experience to support founders navigating the complexities of the Indian market and beyond.
As an investor, Binny Bansal operates through multiple channels, including direct angel investments, his family office, and as a co-founder of the venture capital firm 021 Capital. His investment thesis primarily revolves around technology-driven businesses, with a strong inclination towards sectors such as e-commerce, fintech, healthtech, SaaS, and logistics. He often seeks out companies that are addressing large, underserved markets or disrupting traditional industries with innovative solutions. Bansal is known for his hands-on approach, often providing strategic guidance and leveraging his extensive network to assist portfolio companies in their growth trajectory.
Bansal has built an impressive portfolio, having invested in over 50 startups as an angel investor, demonstrating his commitment to fostering the next generation of Indian unicorns. Notable investments include prominent names like Acko, a digital insurance platform; Cure.fit, a health and fitness startup; and Uni, a fintech company focused on credit products. Through 021 Capital, which raised a fund of $32 million, he continues to back early-stage technology companies, typically participating in seed to Series A rounds. His investments reflect a strategic vision to contribute to India's digital transformation and economic growth, empowering entrepreneurs with capital and crucial operational insights.
His continued involvement underscores a dedication to giving back to the ecosystem that he helped build. Binny Bansal's investment activities are not merely financial but are deeply rooted in his desire to replicate the success of Flipkart by empowering other founders to build large-scale, impactful businesses. He remains a highly influential and sought-after investor, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future landscape of Indian innovation.
Investor Profile
Binny Bansal has backed more than 49 startups, with 9 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 4 rounds, about 8% of its total and boasts 7 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Seed, Series A, Series Unknown rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in India, United States, Singapore.
- Strong thematic focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Software, Restaurants.
- Led 2 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $250K – $5M.
Stage Focus
- Seed (31%)
- Series A (27%)
- Series Unknown (10%)
- Series B (10%)
- Series C (6%)
- Angel (4%)
- Series D (4%)
- Pre Seed (4%)
- Debt Financing (4%)
Country Focus
- India (71%)
- United States (20%)
- Singapore (6%)
- Kenya (2%)
Industry Focus
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Software
- Restaurants
- E-commerce
- Education
- Food And Beverage
- Snack Food
- Gaming
- E-learning
- Health Care
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn who this investor regularly partners with—both firms and angels—and explore their latest activity.