100Unicorns, India’s largest early-stage accelerator venture capital (VC) fund, has opened its first international office in Abu Dhabi’s ADGM, a leading global financial hub. Previously known as 9Unicorns, the fund launched in 2020 to support and create over 50 industry leaders. It now aims to raise a $200 million fund to further accelerate its mission.
Choosing the UAE as a gateway to the MENA region, 100Unicorns plans to establish a dynamic cross-border corridor between India and the region, promoting startup investments, incubation, and growth for both ecosystems.
This expansion is significant for India’s booming startup sector, which saw a 15-fold increase in funding from 2015 to 2022. India ranks as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, housing over 110,000 startups and 111 unicorns valued at $350 billion.
Dr. Apoorva Ranjan Sharma, Managing Director and Founder of 100Unicorns, shared:
“We’re thrilled to open our office in the UAE. This marks a major step in showcasing India’s thriving startups to global investors. Through ADGM, we aim to connect MENA investors with India’s high-growth opportunities under top-tier governance and transparency.”
Manoj Aheeray, Global Partner and SEO at 100Unicorns, emphasized ADGM’s support:
“ADGM’s regulatory framework and resources have enabled a seamless entry into the UAE market. Our expansion aligns with our growth strategy and strengthens India-UAE collaboration, fostering innovation and cross-border partnerships.”
Arvind Ramamurthy, Chief Market Development Officer at ADGM, remarked:
“ADGM provides a robust regulatory framework and infrastructure, making it ideal for funds like 100Unicorns. This move highlights the UAE’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.”
Advisor Hanumantha Kumar Mannem commented on India’s startup growth:
“India now has over 100,000 startups, with rapid growth predicted to create over a million startups and 500 unicorns by 2030. Government policies, tech-savvy populations, and growing investments are driving this evolution.”
With its rebranding as 100Unicorns, the fund aims to back at least 100 exceptional startups, propelling them toward billion-dollar valuations. Previously, it provided $300,000–$1 million in initial funding, followed by $500,000–$2 million in later rounds with co-investors.
Since 2020, 100Unicorns has invested in 145 startups, with six reaching valuations above $200 million and 30 exceeding $50 million. The fund supports startups with not just capital but also mentorship, acceleration services, and strategic advice, enabling growth from ideation to success.
To reassure investors about entering the Indian market, 100Unicorns has implemented transparent governance, streamlined investment processes, and regular performance updates.
The firm continues to play a transformative role in India’s startup ecosystem, driving growth for businesses and delivering strong returns for investors.
