DTM E47. Using iSAFE Notes & Five Stages of Deep Tech Startups - Shashank, 100X.VC

Shashank is the Co-Founder of 100X.VC - India's first venture fund to invest in early-stage startups using iSAFE Notes. He brings entrepreneurial and investment understanding with 15+ years of cross-functional expertise. Shashank’s professional ability in developing, launching, and making the first move when it comes to products and solutions is reflected in the novel model of 100X.VC. As a Co-Founder of 100X.VC, he is part of the Investment Committee and works closely with portfolio companies on how to improve the chances of new products succeeding. He also helps them raise follow-up capital from growth-stage VCs, CVCs, and family offices. Apply for the Class 10 cohort for INR 1.25 CR funding here: ⁠www.100x.vc/class10

In this episode we discuss,

(00:31) Founding story of 100X.VC. What was its motivation?

(02:30) What is iSAFE Notes and how startups can take advantage of it?

(06:01) How can startups apply to 100X.VC and what's their program structure like?

(09:55) How does 100X.VC define deep tech?

(11:31) Some portfolio deep tech startups of 100X - Accio Robotics, Confider Health, Emo Energy, Meta Shop, Think Metal

(15:10) Shahank’s 5-stage deep tech startup lifecycle framework & how 100X helps deep tech startups to move through the stages

(19:50) Shashank’s advice to deep tech founders to take their startup from 0 to 1

(23:21) What does 100X look for in deep tech startups while deciding to invest?

(27:44) What are some future initiatives being planned at 100X?

(29:41) What are some future opportunities in deep tech domain that Shashank wished a startup could capitalize now?

Social Links:

Shashank Randev, 100X.VC - shashankrandev (LinkedIn), @ShashankRandev (Twitter)

Pronojit Saha, DTM Podcast - pronojitsaha (LinkedIn), @pronojits (Twitter)

Links & References from the episode: - Emerging Deeptech Article - https://www.100x.vc/blog/emerging-indian-deep-tech-ecosystem

- Generative Ai trends Article: https://www.100x.vc/blog/generative-ai-8-futuristic-trends

- 100X Investment Thesis - https://www.100x.vc/investment-thesis - 100X.VC portfolio: ⁠www.100x.vc/portfolio