In a major move to bolster the startup ecosystem in Andhra Pradesh and encourage entrepreneurial growth, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu launched the Telugu Angels Angel Fund on January 7, 2025. The new initiative aims to empower Telugu entrepreneurs by providing them with the necessary resources, support, and global connections to scale their ventures on the international stage.
The launch event marked a significant step toward realizing the vision for 2047, a plan aimed at transforming Andhra Pradesh into a leading global economic hub. CM Naidu emphasized that the Telugu Angels fund will play a critical role in making this vision a reality by fueling the growth of local businesses, fostering innovation, and ensuring that Telugu entrepreneurs can compete globally. “The launch of Telugu Angels is a significant step in this journey of Vision 2047, and I believe this initiative will be one of the key enablers of our state’s progress,” Naidu remarked.
The Telugu Angels fund is designed to support early-stage startups with funding and mentorship, enabling them to build scalable business models that can thrive in the global marketplace. The fund is also set to forge strategic partnerships with global investor networks, accelerators, and industry leaders, offering Telugu entrepreneurs access to a wealth of experience and resources from across the world.
In addition to providing funding, the initiative plans to create a strategic investing group consisting of unicorn founders and soonicorns—startups that are on the verge of reaching a valuation of $1 billion. These seasoned entrepreneurs will offer invaluable guidance and mentorship to emerging founders, helping them navigate the challenges of building and scaling startups in today’s competitive business environment.
Siddharth Marupeddi, the CEO of FirstLoop Capital and a key figure behind the initiative, shared his excitement about the launch. He highlighted the growth of the startup ecosystem in Andhra Pradesh over the past decade, referencing the establishment of StartAP, an incubator that has supported numerous startups in the region. “It’s been 10 years since we launched StartAP as a key startup ecosystem enabler, and today it gives me immense pride to launch a larger global network that strengthens Telugu Founders, CXOs, and seasoned entrepreneurs worldwide,” Marupeddi said.
The launch of Telugu Angels marks the beginning of a new chapter for Andhra Pradesh, which has been positioning itself as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in India. With a growing focus on technology, manufacturing, and services, the state is eager to create an environment where entrepreneurs can not only thrive domestically but also reach new heights on the international stage. The initiative will also strengthen the ties between global investors and local entrepreneurs, helping them to expand their businesses beyond regional borders.
As the Telugu Angels fund continues to gain traction, it is expected to create a ripple effect across India’s startup ecosystem. By providing capital, mentorship, and strategic connections, the fund will not only elevate the startup ecosystem in Andhra Pradesh but also pave the way for other states to follow suit, creating a more robust entrepreneurial landscape across the country.
In conclusion, the Telugu Angels fund is a promising step toward empowering Telugu entrepreneurs and driving economic growth in Andhra Pradesh. With its global vision and strategic partnerships, the initiative is poised to make a lasting impact on the region’s business landscape, supporting the growth of startups that will shape the future of India’s economy.