Anupam Mittal: A Visionary Entrepreneur, Investor, and Shark Tank India Personality

Anupam Mittal, a distinguished entrepreneur and investor, has made significant contributions to the Indian startup ecosystem. Born on December 23, 1971, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, Mittal’s journey from a product manager to the founder and CEO of People Group is a testament to his vision, determination, and business acumen. This article delves into his entrepreneurial ventures, strategic investments, and the impact he has had on the startup landscape in India.

Early Life and Education
Anupam Mittal’s early life in Mumbai laid the foundation for his future endeavors. Growing up in a business-oriented family, he was exposed to the world of commerce and entrepreneurship from a young age. After completing his schooling at Jai Hind College in Mumbai, he pursued an MBA in Operations and Strategic Management from Boston College, Massachusetts. This educational background equipped him with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of the business world.

The Birth of Shaadi.com
Anupam Mittal’s entrepreneurial journey began with the establishment of Shaadi.com in 1997. The idea was born out of a personal experience with a traditional matrimonial consultant, which led him to create an online platform to revolutionize the matrimonial industry. Shaadi.com quickly gained traction and became one of the largest matrimonial websites globally, boasting over 35 million users. The platform’s success lies in its ability to cater to a diverse audience and offer a seamless matchmaking experience.

Shaadi.com’s success can be attributed to several factors. First, it addressed a significant pain point in the traditional matrimonial process by offering a more efficient and user-friendly platform. Second, it leveraged technology to provide personalized matchmaking services, using algorithms to match users based on their preferences and compatibility. Finally, it continuously innovated and adapted to changing market trends, ensuring it remained relevant and competitive.

Expanding Horizons: Mauj Mobile and Makaan.com
Following the success of Shaadi.com, Anupam Mittal ventured into other domains with Mauj Mobile and Makaan.com. Mauj Mobile, launched in 2006, was one of India’s first mobile entertainment companies, providing a wide range of content and services to mobile users. The company quickly gained popularity, offering ringtones, wallpapers, games, and other mobile entertainment options. Mauj Mobile’s success can be attributed to its ability to tap into the growing demand for mobile content and its focus on providing high-quality, engaging services.

Makaan.com, a comprehensive real estate portal, was established to simplify the process of buying, selling, and renting properties in India. The platform provided users with a vast database of property listings, along with tools and resources to help them make informed decisions. Makaan.com’s success was driven by its user-friendly interface, extensive property listings, and focus on providing accurate and reliable information to users. The platform quickly became a trusted resource for individuals and families looking to buy or rent properties in India.

Ola Cabs: A Game-Changing Investment
Anupam Mittal’s keen eye for potential has led him to make several successful investments in various startups. His most notable investment is in Ola Cabs, a ridesharing company that has become a household name in India. In 2011, Mittal invested INR 1 crore in Ola, securing a 2% stake. This investment has yielded substantial returns, as Ola has grown into one of India’s largest mobility startups with a valuation of over $20 billion.

Ola’s success can be attributed to several factors. First, it addressed a significant gap in the transportation market by offering a convenient, affordable, and reliable ridesharing service. Second, it leveraged technology to provide a seamless user experience, using a mobile app to connect drivers with passengers. Third, it continuously innovated and expanded its services, introducing features like Ola Auto, Ola Bike, and Ola Electric to cater to diverse user needs. Finally, it focused on building a strong brand and establishing a loyal customer base through aggressive marketing and promotional campaigns.

A Diverse Investment Portfolio
Beyond Ola, Anupam Mittal’s investment portfolio includes over 250 startups across various sectors, including clean technology, consumer internet, mobile, healthcare, and SaaS. Some of his notable investments are:

– **Reevoy**: Raised significant funding and is making strides in B2B cross-border trade.
– **BharatX**: Acquired by super.money to enhance its credit solutions.
– **PawsIndia**: Established as a major online marketplace for pet products.
– **Skippi Ice Pops**: Monthly sales reached ₹70 lakhs after appearing on Shark Tank India.
– **CosIQ**: Experiencing a 30% monthly growth rate with its skincare products.
– **Revamp Moto**: Received accolades like the National Startup Award for sustainable mobility solutions.
– **Heart Up My Sleeves**: Monthly sales soared to ₹6-7 lakhs post-investment.
– **VivaLyf Innovations**: Developed India’s first non-invasive glucometer.
– **Meatyour**: Expanded operations significantly in the plant-based meat sector.
– **Thinkerbell Labs**: Gained international recognition for improving Braille literacy.

Each of these startups has achieved remarkable success, reflecting the impact of Mittal’s investments.

Reevoy: Revolutionizing B2B Trade
Reevoy is a sourcing platform that connects global brands with Indian manufacturers. The company provides financing solutions for small and medium-sized businesses, enabling them to access the capital needed to fulfill large orders. Reevoy has raised significant funding, including $4 million in a seed round led by 9Unicorns and Venture Catalysts. The company is making strides in the B2B cross-border trade sector, enabling global brands to source from India efficiently.

BharatX: Enhancing Credit Solutions
BharatX is a credit financing startup aimed at bringing credit finance services to the common people. The company was acquired by super.money, a UPI application supported by Flipkart, to enhance its credit solutions. This acquisition aims to improve BharatX’s reach in the credit-on-UPI sector and provide better financial services to its users.

PawsIndia: A Growing Pet Care Marketplace
PawsIndia is a pet care startup offering a wide range of products and services for pets. The company has grown into a significant online marketplace for pet products, providing items for various pet breeds. PawsIndia secured a deal on Shark Tank India and continues to expand its product offerings, catering to the growing pet care market in India.

Skippi Ice Pops: A Natural Ice Pops Success Story
Skippi Ice Pops has seen tremendous success since its appearance on Shark Tank India. The company produces natural and preservative-free ice pops, with monthly sales skyrocketing to ₹70 lakhs. Skippi Ice Pops is now a multi-crore business, selling over 60,000 popsicles every month. The company’s commitment to quality and natural ingredients has resonated with consumers, driving its rapid growth.

CosIQ: Innovating Skincare Solutions
CosIQ is a skincare brand focused on providing scientifically-backed skincare solutions. The company has been growing rapidly, with a 30% monthly growth rate. CosIQ’s products are formulated based on scientific research and cater to various skincare needs. The brand’s commitment to innovation and quality has helped it gain significant traction in the Indian market.

Revamp Moto: Sustainable Mobility Solutions
Revamp Moto is an electric vehicle startup specializing in sustainable mobility solutions. The company has been recognized for its innovative electric two-wheelers and has received accolades such as the National Startup Award. Revamp Moto aims to impact 1 million lives by 2028 with its sustainable mobility solutions, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.

Heart Up My Sleeves: Fashion Innovation
Heart Up My Sleeves is a fashion startup offering detachable sleeves to transform outfits. The company has seen soaring sales, with monthly sales reaching ₹6-7 lakhs after securing an investment on Shark Tank India. The innovative concept of detachable sleeves has resonated with consumers, providing a unique and customizable fashion solution.

VivaLyf Innovations: Non-Invasive Healthcare Solutions
VivaLyf Innovations has developed India’s first non-invasive glucometer, EzLyf, which has gained attention for its innovative approach to blood sugar monitoring. The company aims to reshape the medical device market with its self-care diagnostic solutions, making healthcare more accessible and convenient for users.

Meatyour: Plant-Based Meat Alternatives
Meatyour is a plant-based meat startup offering sustainable and healthy meat alternatives. The company has grown significantly since its appearance on Shark Tank India, managing over 20,000 hens and expanding its operations. Meatyour aims to provide consumers with nutritious and eco-friendly meat alternatives, contributing to a more sustainable food system.

Thinkerbell Labs: Empowering the Visually Impaired
Thinkerbell Labs is an edtech startup focused on creating innovative learning solutions for visually impaired students. The company’s flagship product, Annie, is a Braille literacy device that has received international recognition. Thinkerbell Labs’ efforts to improve Braille literacy have made education more accessible for visually impaired students, empowering them to achieve their full potential.

Impact on the Indian Startup Ecosystem
Anupam Mittal’s influence extends beyond his investments. His presence on the popular TV show, Shark Tank India, has further solidified his role in the startup world. As a “shark,” Mittal provides mentorship and funding to budding entrepreneurs, helping them turn their innovative ideas into successful businesses. His insights and guidance have been instrumental in shaping the trajectories of many startups featured on the show.

Net Worth and Philanthropy
As of 2024, Anupam Mittal’s net worth is estimated to be around ₹185 crores. His wealth is a testament to his successful ventures and strategic investments. Beyond his business endeavors, Mittal is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He actively supports various social causes and initiatives aimed at improving education, healthcare, and livelihoods in India.

Conclusion
Anupam Mittal’s journey from a product manager to a successful entrepreneur and investor exemplifies his visionary mindset and commitment to fostering innovation. His ventures, such as Shaadi.com, Mauj Mobile, and Makaan.com, have revolutionized their respective industries, while his strategic investments in startups like Ola Cabs have yielded substantial returns. Mittal’s diverse investment portfolio, which includes Reevoy, BharatX, PawsIndia, Skippi Ice Pops, CosIQ, Revamp Moto, Heart Up My Sleeves, VivaLyf Innovations, Meatyour, and Thinkerbell Labs, showcases his ability to identify and support promising ventures across various sectors.

Beyond his business achievements, Mittal’s role as a mentor and investor on Shark Tank India has further solidified his influence in the startup ecosystem. Through his guidance and funding, he has helped numerous entrepreneurs turn their innovative ideas into successful businesses, contributing to the growth and development of the Indian startup landscape.

As of 2024, Anupam Mittal’s net worth is estimated to be around ₹185 crores, a testament to his successful ventures and strategic investments. His philanthropic efforts further demonstrate his commitment to making a positive impact on society, supporting initiatives aimed at improving education, healthcare, and livelihoods in India.

In summary, Anupam Mittal’s contributions to the Indian startup ecosystem are immense and far-reaching. His entrepreneurial ventures, strategic investments, and mentorship have not only transformed industries but also inspired and empowered countless entrepreneurs. Mittal’s journey continues to shape the future of entrepreneurship in India, solidifying his legacy as a true visionary in the world of business and investment.

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Renowned former South African cricketer AB De Villiers has made a significant investment in Bangalore-based direct-to-consumer (D2C) nutrition startup Supply6. The exact amount of the investment remains undisclosed.

Joining Forces as Brand Ambassador

In addition to his financial investment, AB De Villiers has also taken on the role of brand ambassador for Supply6. This partnership brings together De Villiers’ athletic prowess and the startup’s commitment to providing essential nutrients, aiming to inspire healthier living among consumers.

Founding and Vision of Supply6

Supply6, founded in January 2019 by Vaibhav Bhandari and Rahul Jacob, is a health food and convenience brand focused on promoting nutritious living. The startup’s mission is to make essential nutrients accessible and convenient for a healthier lifestyle.

Statements from AB De Villiers and Supply6 Founders

Expressing his enthusiasm for the collaboration, AB De Villiers said, “The brand’s rapid expansion is impressive, and I am eager to support its mission of promoting healthier lifestyles.”

Co-founder Rahul Jacob added, “AB De Villiers is an excellent fit for our brand due to his dynamic approach to both his career and health, which perfectly aligns with our vision. We are confident that this collaboration will enhance our connection with our audience. His esteemed reputation in the sports world mirrors the trust and quality we aim to provide with our products.”

• How do you think AB De Villiers’ involvement will impact Supply6’s brand visibility and growth?
• What are your thoughts on athletes investing in health and nutrition startups?
• Do you believe this partnership will inspire more people to adopt healthier lifestyles?
• Share your views on the future of the health food industry in India.

Bengaluru-based startup POP has secured $2.4 million in seed funding, led by India Quotient and prominent angel investors, to revolutionize UPI transactions and enhance user rewards.

Game-Changer in UPI Transactions

In an exciting development for fintech enthusiasts, POP has received approval from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) to operate as a Third-Party Application Provider (TPAP). With strategic partnerships with Yes Bank and Juspay, POP is poised to offer a groundbreaking UPI payment service via its POPclub app, rewarding users with POPcoins—a unique shopping currency—on every transaction.

Unveiling POPcoins: The Future of Rewards

POPcoins set a new standard in UPI rewards by offering a 2% cashback on every transaction, providing consistent and attractive benefits compared to other UPI apps. Users can redeem POPcoins to shop across a vast array of products from over 200 top direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands within the POPclub app, including beauty, personal care, electronics, fashion, and home goods.

Driving the Future of Digital Payments

Founder Bhargav Errangi envisions POP as the ultimate platform for payments and shopping tailored to digitally savvy young Indians. “Our mission is to deliver innovative app experiences that align with the evolving interests of our users,” Errangi remarked. By positioning POPcoins as the go-to shopping currency, POP aims to resonate with the modern preferences of Indian consumers.

Strategic Vision and Expansion

Madhukar, General Partner at India Quotient, highlighted the strategic importance of POP’s solution for D2C and consumer brands. “We’re excited to support Bhargav and the team in addressing the critical challenges of customer acquisition and retention, enabling brands to retain customers at a fraction of current costs,” he stated.

Since its launch in early May 2023, POP has successfully integrated over 200 brands and engaged more than four million customers through its POPcoins rewards system. The company’s ambitious goal is to expand its network to over 500 brands and attract 10 million customers by the end of the year, showcasing its rapid growth and market potential.

A New Era in UPI Payments and Rewards

With its innovative approach and robust support from investors, POP is set to redefine the landscape of UPI transactions, making digital payments more rewarding and enjoyable for users. Stay tuned as POP continues to revolutionize the fintech industry, offering unparalleled value and convenience to its growing user base.

What are your views in this UPI revolution?