As India’s startup ecosystem expands beyond urban centres, Next Bharat Ventures (NBV) is doubling down on entrepreneurs building solutions for rural and underserved communities. The venture capital firm has launched its second fund with a corpus of ₹2,000 crore, anchored by Suzuki Motor Corporation.

The new fund will invest in startups working across sectors that directly impact everyday lives, including agriculture, rural supply chains, financial inclusion, healthcare, rural mobility, and AI for social good.

The launch builds on the firm’s first ₹340 crore fund, through which NBV invested in more than 20 startups while supporting over 50 impact-driven ventures with funding, mentorship, and ecosystem-building initiatives.

Founded in 2024, Next Bharat Ventures focuses on entrepreneurs addressing real-world challenges in rural India. The firm believes that innovation can improve livelihoods, expand access to essential services, and create sustainable economic opportunities for communities that have traditionally remained underserved.

Speaking about the firm’s journey, founder and CEO Vipul Jindal Nath said that more than 90% of NBV’s portfolio companies are progressing towards profitability in their early years, reflecting the potential of businesses that combine commercial success with meaningful social impact.

Beyond providing capital, NBV also works closely with founders through mentorship, market access, residency programmes, and a strong founder community designed to help startups scale sustainably.

Its growing portfolio includes startups such as MeMeraki, E-Bik, SGB Agro, and Atypical Advantage. With the new ₹2,000 crore fund, the firm plans to significantly expand its investments in startups building solutions for India’s rural and informal economies.