S2E2 | Hard Truths about minting the next Indian Unicorn with Piyush Kharbanda

How do Indian startups navigate constraints and build innovative businesses? In this episode of Hard Truths by Vertex podcast, Elise Tan and Piyush Kharbanda discuss the challenges and opportunities in the Indian startup ecosystem, drawing insights from successful ventures like KukuFM and Kissht. Explore the unique dynamics of the Indian ecosystem and the path to success in a dynamic market. Tune in now!

Discussion Topics: Hard Truths about minting the next Indian Unicorn

• How did Piyush come across Vertex?
• How has the Indian ecosystem grown since his joining?
• What are the types of companies that have done well in the Indian ecosystem?
• What brings Piyush to the early stage market?
• Hard truths for first time entrepreneurs
• How do successful start-ups manage to monetise?
• How have the rules of Venture Investing changed since the pandemic?
• Product market fit is a journey
• What should be your investing strategy in India?
• Exit opportunities in the Indian market

Our Guest: Piyush Kharbanda

Piyush Kharbanda joined Vertex Ventures in 2016 and is focusing on opportunities in India. Prior to Vertex, he spent five years investing across sectors with Multiples, a leading India based mid-market fund, where he was involved in investments through portfolio management and exit. Before that, Piyush worked with Alvarez and Marsal on performance improvement and strategy consulting assignments.