Baanhem Ventures raises Rs 3.3 crore funding from Kumar Vembu's Mudhal Partners

Baanhem Ventures, creators of the entrepreneurial reality show Startup Thamizha, has raised Rs 3.3 crore in funding from Kumar Vembu, founder of GoFrugal Technologies.

The investment, channeled through Vembu’s newly established firm, Mudhal Partners, is aimed at fostering first-generation entrepreneurs from Tamil Nadu. The announcement was made on [DATE].  

Co-founded earlier this year by Hemachandran L. and Balachandar R., Baanhem Ventures focuses on nurturing local innovators and job creators through financial support and mentorship.

Their flagship show, Startup Thamizha, has garnered over Rs 200 crore in investment commitments for Tamil Nadu-based startups over its three successful seasons.  

Entrepreneurial culture and economic growth

The television program is set to air on a leading general entertainment channel and is dedicated to showcasing promising startups at seed and growth stages.

By encouraging high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) to invest locally, the show aims to inspire a cultural shift in funding startups and foster sustainable economic growth in Tamil Nadu.

“Financial support is crucial for first-generation entrepreneurs to bring their ideas to life,” the co-founders said in a joint statement.

They highlighted their mission of becoming a reliable platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to transform innovative ideas into successful businesses.

A vision for Tamil Nadu's entrepreneurial future

Impressed by Baanhem Ventures’ focus on native Tamil Nadu entrepreneurs and their strategic methods, Kumar Vembu shared his rationale for supporting the venture.

“Baanhem’s scientific approach to developing successful startups aligns with my vision to empower first-generation entrepreneurs. This inspired the creation of Mudhal Partners,” he said.  

Mudhal Partners, meaning "First Partners" in Tamil, aims to build bridges between emerging startups and major investors nationwide. The firm is also working towards creating a startup-investment bridge platform to connect innovative startups with venture capitalists across India.