Startup Originals Team
Neeraj Tyagi, a celebrated Indian entrepreneur, investor, and mentor, passed away suddenly on August 16, 2025, at around age 50. Renowned for his instrumental role in shaping India’s early-stage startup investment landscape, Tyagi co-founded several transformative platforms-We Founder Circle (WFC), Invstt, and Avinya Ventures-through which he empowered startups and investors, both in India and globally. His passing marks an irreplaceable loss to the entrepreneurial community.
Early Career and Entrepreneurial Roots:
Before becoming a central figure in India’s venture capital scene, Neeraj Tyagi ran a content production company serving major clients like Microsoft, Google, Network18, and Whirlpool. His entrepreneurial journey was defined by hands-on experience, business acumen, and a passion for supporting innovation from its earliest stages.
Transforming Angel Investing: We Founder Circle:
In 2020, Tyagi co-founded We Founder Circle (WFC). Under his leadership as CEO, WFC rapidly developed into one of India’s most active angel networks. Within just three years, it facilitated over 100 early-stage startup deals, typically supporting companies with investments ranging between $250,000 and $1million. Tyagi’s keen eye for potential helped WFC stand out as a premier launchpad for new ventures.
Global Connections: Invstt:
Recognizing the need for a broader reach, Tyagi also co-founded Invstt in 2020, building a unique global platform to connect startups and investors. Invstt boasts a remarkable community of over 27,000 investors from 66 countries and 900 cities. By making syndicate-led investments accessible worldwide, Tyagi democratized opportunities for both founders and backers.
Institutionalising Early-Stage Capital: Avinya Ventures
In 2024, Tyagi extended his vision further with the creation of Avinya Ventures. This venture capital fund is focused on institutionalizing early-stage investments in technology-driven startups. Avinya offers not just capital, but structured mentorship and guidance-empowering founders to scale their ideas into impactful businesses.
Prolific Angel Investing and Portfolio Highlights:
Beyond his role in institutional platforms, Tyagi was a dynamic angel investor, personally backing over 60 startups. Noteworthy companies in his portfolio include:
- BluSmart (EV ride-hailing)
- Zypp Electric (backed since 2018, EV mobility and last-mile services)
- Oben Electric (since 2021, India’s first indigenous EV motorcycle)
- Rooter.gg (gaming and streaming)
- Garuda Aerospace (drone technology)
- Hesa (rural fintech and supply chain)
- Anveshan, ClearDekho, HealthySure, and more
His investments reflected a particular passion for sectors like electric mobility, fintech, agritech, and emerging technologies.
Thought Leadership and Mentorship:
Neeraj Tyagi’s influence reached far beyond financial investments. As a frequent speaker at startup events, mentor to entrepreneurs, and an executive education graduate of MIT Sloan, he played a pivotal role in shaping India’s new generation of founders. Previously, he was also a managing partner at Venture Catalysts, helping over 200 companies raise more than $150million and cementing the network as a global leader in early-stage funding.
Tributes and Lasting Legacy:
Neeraj Tyagi’s passing has evoked heartfelt tributes from across the startup world. Pee Safe founder Vikas Bagaria called the news “heartbreaking,” while Infynit’s Ritesh Jain recalled Tyagi’s reminder that “life is too fragile.” Zypp Electric’s co-founder reflected on Tyagi as a powerhouse of support for startups—a “visionary, mentor, and pillar” whose energy, optimism, and belief in entrepreneurs changed countless lives for the better.
His legacy will continue through the ventures he built, the founders he mentored, and the generation of entrepreneurs he inspired. Neeraj is survived by his wife and son, who, along with his extended network of founders, colleagues, and friends, carry his vision forward.
Neeraj Tyagi’s story is a testament to entrepreneurial spirit, selfless mentorship, and tireless dedication to building a better future through startups. His impact on India’s venture ecosystem will endure for generations.
