The intersection of finance and sustainability has never been more crucial. With climate change looming as one of the most pressing global challenges, investors are increasingly turning their attention to climate tech startups as agents of change. One such entity leading the charge is Anicut Capital, an alternate investment fund based in India. Founded in 2015 with a vision to become a local investment management firm, Anicut Capital has since embarked on a remarkable journey, honing its focus on climate tech investments in recent years. In this blog post, we delve into the insights gleaned from an interview with representatives from Anicut Capital, exploring their journey, investment philosophy, and future plans in the climate tech sector.
Narasimhan Santhanam, Director, EAI interviewed Ajay Anand and IAS Balamurugan for their thoughts. Here are the highlights and takeaways.
Narsi: Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with representatives from Anicut Capital, an investment firm specializing in climate tech. Could you please introduce yourselves and tell us a bit about Anicut Capital?
Anicut Capital: Thank you for having us. I’m Bala, one of the co-founders of Anicut Capital, and with me is Ajay, a partner in the firm. Anicut Capital is an alternate investment fund with a focus on climate tech. We’ve been investing in various sectors for about eight years, but in the last few years, we’ve heavily concentrated on climate tech, supporting startups like Clairco and E-Plane. Our approach emphasizes early-stage investments and hands-on support for founders.
Narsi: That’s fascinating. Could you share some insights into how Anicut Capital came about and your journey so far in the climate tech sector?
Anicut Capital: Certainly. Anicut Capital was founded in 2015 with the vision of supporting Indian startups and fostering innovation. In the climate tech sector, we’ve seen tremendous growth and potential. Our journey has been one of learning and adaptation, as we navigate the complexities of this emerging field. We’ve invested in various areas such as air purification, sustainable materials, electric airplanes, and water sustainability, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities.
Narsi: It sounds like you’ve had quite a diverse portfolio. What sets Anicut Capital apart in the climate tech investment landscape?
Anicut Capital: Our approach is founded on early-stage investments and deep engagement with founders. We believe in being more than just financial backers – we’re partners in the journey, providing support, expertise, and access to our extensive network. Additionally, our focus on sustainability and long-term value creation sets us apart. We’re not just chasing short-term gains; we’re committed to building a more sustainable future.
Narsi: That’s commendable. Can you share some highlights or success stories from your investments in the climate tech sector?
Anicut Capital: Absolutely. One of our success stories is Clairco, a startup focused on indoor clean air solutions. Through our partnership, Clairco has grown significantly and has attracted substantial investment, enabling them to scale their operations and impact. We’ve also seen promising developments in other areas such as sustainable packaging, decarbonization, and alternative fuels, where our investments are making a significant difference.
Narsi: It’s inspiring to hear about the positive impact your investments are making. Looking ahead, what are your plans for the future in the climate tech space?
Anicut Capital: As we look to the future, we’re doubling down on our commitment to climate tech. We see immense potential for growth and innovation in this space, and we’re eager to continue supporting founders who are driving change. Our focus will remain on early-stage investments, leveraging our expertise and network to identify and nurture promising startups. We’re excited about the opportunities ahead and are confident that India will play a significant role in shaping the future of climate tech.
Narsi: Thank you both for sharing your insights and experiences. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you, and we look forward to seeing Anicut Capital’s continued success in the climate tech sector.
Anicut Capital: Thank you for having us. We’re excited about the journey ahead and are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a more sustainable future.
As we reflect on the insights shared by Anicut Capital, it becomes evident that the landscape of finance is undergoing a profound transformation. Climate tech, once viewed as a niche sector, is now positioned as the forefront of investment and innovation. Through their unwavering commitment to value creation and sustainability, Anicut Capital exemplifies the potential of finance to drive positive change in the world. As we look to the future, it is clear that the journey towards a more sustainable and resilient future will require collaboration, innovation, and bold investments. With entities like Anicut Capital leading the way, we can remain hopeful that the path ahead will be paved with progress and possibility.
