Atomic Capital closes Rs 400 crore maiden fund for Indian consumer startups

Atomic Capital, a Mumbai-based early-stage venture capital firm founded by Apoorv Gautam, has announced the final close of its maiden fund at Rs 400 crore, making it one of the largest debut funds focused on early growth-stage Indian consumer, consumer-tech, and consumer-enabler startups. Launched in 2024 with a first close at Rs 155 crore, the fund aims to invest in 10-12 startups across sectors such as food and beverages, nutraceuticals, personal care, apparel, logistics, financial services, and ecommerce SaaS, with average initial cheque sizes ranging from Rs 10 to 30 crore. Over the past 12 months, Atomic Capital has deployed Rs 50 crore across four startups, including ConsciousChemist and Doodhvale Farms, and is currently evaluating over 20 companies while having issued a term sheet for a fifth investment. The firm emphasizes capital-efficient businesses addressing large and expanding markets, and follows an "Operating VC" approach, providing hands-on support including strategic know-how and senior-level talent hiring to portfolio companies. The fund plans to deploy both initial and follow-on capital over an eight-year timeline, reflecting a commitment to sustainable, capital-efficient growth and long-term partnership with founders. Apoorv Gautam brings over 18 years of experience from roles at Rivigo, McKinsey, and Bain, reinforcing the fund's strategic leadership and operational engagement in building enduring businesses.