Mahavir
Pratap Sharma
Mahavir Pratap Sharma is a pioneering angel investor and startup ecosystem leader with over 35 years of diverse business experience. Actively investing since 2011, he has backed 40+ companies, delivering an impressive 6.3x MOIC and 58% IRR. His sharp investment acumen is matched by his dedication to nurturing founders and scaling innovation.
He is the Founding Chair of TiE India Angels and Co-founder & Chair of Rajasthan Angels (RAIN). Mahavir also made history as the first Asian to chair the TiE Global Board of Trustees, underlining his influence in the global entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Beyond investing, he plays a strategic role in shaping India’s startup policies, advising state and industry-level bodies like Rajasthan SLIC and Bihar’s startup initiatives. His mentorship, deep operational insight, and unwavering commitment to entrepreneurship make him a trusted guide for both founders and policymakers.
Investment Team
Piyush Lohia
Associate
Rahul Jalan
Analyst
Investment Committee
Renowned for his innovative leadership and significant impact on internet technology, he serves as the Chairman of both AIESEC and ICANN. He holds a PhD from the Open University of the Netherlands and an MBA from Newport University of California.
An experienced investment and strategy professional specialising in private equity, strategy, and operations. She founded Project 2.8 and Athia Investments, and she hold a Master’s degree from Columbia University.
Dr. Ajay Data is a global technology leader and former Chairman of both AIESEC and ICANN, where he played a pivotal role in advancing youth leadership and global internet governance. He brings a global perspective to shaping digital innovation and fostering inclusive internet accessibility.
With over two decades of leadership across international forums and digital platforms, he has championed multilateral cooperation, cross-border digital transformation, and inclusive dialogue across global communities. His work reflects a deep commitment to bridging technology and governance while empowering the next generation of digital leaders.
He holds a PhD from the Open University of the Netherlands and an MBA from Newport University of California, combining academic insight with real-world policy advocacy and strategic leadership.
Outside of work, Dr. Data is an active mentor, speaker, and collaborator, engaging with emerging leaders and supporting global initiatives that advance responsible innovation and internet accessibility.
With 9+ years of global experience (US, UK, India, and Dubai) across VC, private equity, and strategy, Vinita thrives at the intersection of business and technology. She played a key role in leading North America expansion for a $17B Indian MNC, launching a GenAI HealthTech product, co-founded a global advisory firm, and managed $100M+ in transactions. Her work spans FinTech, HealthTech, AI, and consumer sectors. As a Founder Lead at Columbia Venture Community’s Project 2.8, she mentors underrepresented women founders to foster a more inclusive venture ecosystem.
She holds a management degree from Columbia University and a bachelor’s degree in Finance and International Business, and was recognized among the All India Top 0.1% Meritorious Students. Outside of work, she enjoys dance, sports, and travel.
Advisory Board
Pravin Gandhi
Veteran investor with 18 years of experience. Founded India's first early-stage funds: Infinity Ventures and Seed Fund Ventures. Notable investments include Redbus, Carwale, and Heckyl Technologies. Co-founded Hinditron Computers, India's first IT company, in 1972.
Puneet Maheshwari
Currently SVP at Optum North America. Founder of DocASAP, which was acquired by Optum. Formerly with McKinsey & Company. Holds an MBA from Wharton Business School.
