Ratan Naval Tata, the revered former chairman of Tata Sons, is not just an icon of Indian industry but has also emerged as a pivotal figure in the country's startup ecosystem. Beyond the sprawling Tata conglomerate, his personal investments and mentorship have provided a crucial launchpad for numerous fledgling companies. A remarkable testament to his foresight is that at least ten startups he backed in their early stages have gone on to achieve the coveted 'unicorn' status, each valued at over $1 billion.
The Investment Philosophy of a Titan
Ratan Tata's approach to startup investing diverges from traditional venture capital. He is known for making personal, often early-stage, investments driven by a belief in the founder's vision and the potential societal impact of the business, rather than purely by rigorous financial metrics. This founder-friendly and mentorship-oriented approach has made his backing a significant stamp of credibility. For many entrepreneurs, a cheque from Ratan Tata is not just capital; it is validation, access to an unparalleled network, and guidance from a legendary business mind.
The Portfolio of Unicorns: A Closer Look
The list of startups that benefited from Ratan Tata's 'golden touch' and soared to unicorn valuations is diverse, spanning e-commerce, healthcare, mobility, and fintech. Here are some of the most prominent names:
Ola Cabs: The ride-hailing giant, founded by Bhavish Aggarwal, is perhaps one of the most famous beneficiaries. Tata's early investment in Ola provided immense credibility as it battled deep-pocketed global rivals.
Zivame: In the online lingerie space, Zivame received a major boost when Ratan Tata invested in 2015. His support helped the brand navigate a sensitive market and build trust with a large female customer base.
Bluestone: The online jeweller secured an investment from Tata in 2014. His endorsement played a key role in establishing Bluestone's reputation for quality and reliability in a sector where trust is paramount.
CashKaro: The cashback and coupons platform, founded by Swati and Rohan Bhargava, attracted investment from Ratan Tata's investment arm in 2021. His backing underscored the platform's robust business model in the crowded fintech space.
Lenskart: The eyewear retail disruptor, co-founded by Peyush Bansal, is another unicorn in Tata's portfolio. His investment added to the company's momentum in revolutionizing optical retail in India.
Other notable unicorns and high-value companies he backed include CarDekho (auto portal), FirstCry (baby products), Urban Company (home services), and the health and wellness platform Cure.fit. The list also features Pratilipi, a vernacular storytelling platform, showcasing his support for diverse digital content ecosystems.
Impact and Legacy Beyond Capital
The impact of Ratan Tata's involvement extends far beyond the financial infusion. His name brings a formidable sense of trust and integrity to a startup, making it easier to attract further investment, talent, and customer loyalty. He often engages as a mentor, offering strategic advice drawn from decades of experience in building and scaling large, complex organizations.
This legacy is actively managed through RNT Capital Advisors and his role with the Tata Trusts, ensuring a structured yet empathetic approach to nurturing innovation. His investments frequently highlight themes close to his values: improving consumer access, leveraging technology for good, and building sustainable businesses.
In conclusion, Ratan Tata's journey from the helm of a centuries-old industrial group to a cherished angel investor encapsulates a unique blend of legacy and modernity. The ten unicorns stand as concrete proof of his keen eye for potential and his commitment to fostering Indian entrepreneurship. As the startup landscape continues to evolve, the 'Tata touch' remains a golden standard for founders seeking not just funds, but a legendary partner for their ambitious journeys.
