888VC

888VC is an early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2019 and based in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The firm focuses on investing in startups working in artificial intelligence, deep technology, sustainability, manufacturing, consumer technology, SaaS, fintech, and healthtech. 888VC targets pre-seed and seed-stage companies, typically writing first checks into ventures that demonstrate strong technical foundations and scalable business models.

Role

888VC operates as an active investor that provides capital along with strategic guidance, mentorship, and access to networks. The firm positions itself as a partner for technically-oriented founders who are building products with defensible intellectual property. Beyond capital deployment, 888VC helps portfolio companies with go-to-market strategy, team building, and introductions to later-stage investors. The firm's partners bring experience across technology, finance, and operations, which they deploy in direct advisory roles with portfolio founders.

Programs

As a venture capital firm, 888VC does not run structured cohort-based programs like a traditional accelerator. Instead, it operates through a direct investment model with ongoing portfolio support. The firm invests in pre-seed and seed rounds, with follow-on capacity for high-performing portfolio companies. Portfolio companies receive regular check-ins, strategic guidance, and access to 888VC's network of investors, corporate partners, and domain experts. The firm also facilitates peer learning among portfolio companies and organizes investor introductions for subsequent fundraising rounds.

Notable Alumni

888VC's portfolio includes companies such as EcoRatings, Get Crest, and Pick My Work, spanning sustainability, enterprise tech, and gig economy platforms.

Who Benefits

Technical founders building AI-first, deep tech, or sustainability-focused products at the pre-seed or seed stage are the primary candidates for 888VC investment. The firm is particularly relevant for founders in Bengaluru and other Indian tech hubs who are building technology products with global scalability. Startups that have a working prototype or early traction and are looking for their first institutional check will find 888VC's investment thesis aligned with their stage.

Strategic Impact

With approximately 50 investments in its portfolio, 888VC contributes to India's growing early-stage VC ecosystem. The firm's focus on AI and deep tech positions it at the intersection of India's two fastest-growing startup segments. For Indian founders working on technically complex products, 888VC offers a combination of patient capital, technical understanding, and ecosystem access that generalist funds may not provide.