Chennai: Baanhem Ventures, the creator of the innovative business reality show Startup Thamizha, has raised INR 33 million in fresh funding from tech leader Kumar Vembu through his newly established investment firm, Mudhal Partners. The investment will help accelerate the venture’s mission to nurture first-generation entrepreneurs from Tamil Nadu and empower them to become next-gen innovators and job creators.
Founded earlier this year by Hemachandran L. and Balachandar R., Baanhem Ventures focuses on fostering local entrepreneurial talent and creating a supportive ecosystem for seed-stage and growth-stage startups. Startup Thamizha, Baanhem’s flagship IP, has already secured commitments of over INR 200+ crores from various industry leaders for startup investments across three seasons.
The show aims to spotlight emerging first-generation entrepreneurs from Tamil Nadu and promote a shift in mindset among high-net-worth individuals (HNIs), encouraging them to invest in innovative startups. By doing so, Startup Thamizha seeks to drive economic growth in the state while inspiring aspiring entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into successful businesses.
Kumar Vembu, commenting on his investment and the launch of Mudhal Partners (meaning “First Partners” in Tamil), said, “I was impressed by Baanhem’s vision to build a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem for first-generation entrepreneurs from Tamil Nadu. Their scientific approach to startup development aligns perfectly with my belief in empowering local talent. It was this conviction that led to the establishment of Mudhal Partners and my decision to invest in this exciting initiative.”
The founders of Baanhem Ventures, Hemachandran L. and Balachandar R., expressed their excitement about the collaboration with Mudhal Partners. “Financial support is crucial for the growth of first-generation entrepreneurs. At Baanhem, we aim to be a reliable resource, helping entrepreneurs transform their ideas into successful businesses. With Vembu’s involvement, our mission becomes stronger. Through Startup Thamizha, we are committed to helping entrepreneurs contribute to Tamil Nadu’s economic development and build a lasting entrepreneurial culture.”
Vembu further added, “Initiatives like Startup India and Startup Tamil Nadu have already created a thriving ecosystem for young entrepreneurs across the country. Startup Thamizha has the potential to amplify Tamil Nadu’s startup ecosystem by simplifying the fundraising process and highlighting success stories. By connecting startups with investors, we can accelerate growth and drive the region towards becoming an entrepreneurial powerhouse. I’m excited to support Startup Thamizha and look forward to the impact it will have on the state’s entrepreneurial landscape.”
Startup Thamizha will air on a leading General Entertainment Channel (GEC) and is designed to identify promising entrepreneurs, providing them with the financial backing and mentorship needed to succeed. The program will further strengthen Tamil Nadu’s reputation as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
In addition to the current investment, Baanhem Ventures is actively raising additional funds from leading venture capitalists to establish a Startup-Investment Bridge Platform that will connect emerging startups with top-tier investors across India.
