India’s SanchiConnect and KickSky Ink Pact to Accelerate Global SpaceTech Innovation

The accelerator program is designed to nurture and propel early-stage spacetech startups and is set to further unlock private sector support for pre-seed and seed-stage spacetech innovators

SanchiConnect, India’s leading DeepTech startup network, has entered into a strategic partnership with KickSky Space Lab, an accelerator program focused on early-stage SpaceTech startups. Facilitated by Riceberg Ventures, this collaboration aims to scale KickSky’s vision to propel space tech startups for the global landscape, and reach customers worldwide. KickSky is a joint initiative by venture capital funds Riceberg Ventures and E2MC Ventures, along with Aniara Consulting, and has already gained significant traction since its launch.

Dr. Sunil Shekhawat, CEO, SanchiConnect, remarked, "We are excited to join hands with Riceberg Ventures to accelerate the growth of India’s spacetech ecosystem. Our combined strengths will empower startups to move beyond proof-of-concept, access global markets, and attract the right capital partners. Together, we are committed to making India a powerhouse in the new space economy."

Riceberg Ventures, with offices in Bangalore, Zurich, London and San Francisco, has been at the forefront of deeptech investments globally. Its early-stage spacetech accelerator program has attracted some of the most promising founders in the sector. SanchiConnect, seeded within Baring PE Partner-India, has a proven track record of running high-impact investment and go-to-market (GTM) led accelerators for VC funds, consistently delivering successful cohorts and enabling startups to scale rapidly.

"KickSky was envisioned as a launchpad for the boldest minds in spacetech. With SanchiConnect’s unmatched network and accelerator expertise, we are poised to take KickSky to new heights, offering startups not just capital, but the strategic guidance and global connections needed to solve some of humanity’s most ambitious challenges," said Mr. Ankit Anand, Founding Partner, Riceberg Ventures.

Mr. Govindrajan, Director, KickSky Space Lab, commented, "Our mission at KickSky is to democratize access to the space economy for Indian founders. The partnership with SanchiConnect will help us provide a robust platform for founders to experiment, validate, and scale their ideas, while leveraging the best of industry, academia, and investor networks."

This partnership comes at a pivotal time for India’s spacetech sector, where IN-SPACe has been the public face of support for emerging startups. The SanchiConnect–Riceberg Ventures alliance aims to complement these efforts by unlocking new avenues of funding, mentorship, and global market access for the next generation of spacetech entrepreneurs. The team also plans to launch a global spacetech community of founders, investors, experts, and suppliers from around the world to be accessible and available for early-stage startups.

About Riceberg Ventures

Riceberg Ventures is a deeptech-focused venture capital fund with a presence in Bangalore, Zurich, London and San Francisco. The firm invests in transformative technologies across Spacetech, Life Sciences, AI, Quantum, and Advanced Engineering.

About SanchiConnect

SanchiConnect is India’s premier deeptech startup network, renowned for running investment and GTM-led accelerator programs. Seeded within Baring PE Partner-India, SanchiConnect has enabled the success of numerous deeptech startup cohorts across the country.

Anscer Robotics Secures $2 Mn in Seed Funding Led by Info Edge Ventures

• The latest funding round was led by Info Edge Ventures.
• The company, which is also part of SanchiConnect’s DeepTech community, has shown rapid growth from an early-stage startup to a key player in industrial automation and robotics-driven logistics.

Anscer Robotics, a pioneering developer of intelligent autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), has successfully raised $2 million in a seed funding round, marking a significant milestone in its journey. The company, which is also part of SanchiConnect’s DeepTech community, has shown rapid growth from an early-stage startup to a key player in industrial automation and robotics-driven logistics, driven by multiple strategic partnerships. The latest funding round was led by Info Edge Ventures. This round further validates the company’s market potential and its role in transforming warehouse automation and smart manufacturing across global markets.

The $2 million in funding will fuel ANSCER Robotics' next phase of growth, supporting the establishment of a new manufacturing centre, the hiring of 50+ robotics experts, and the expansion of operations into the United States.

The funding comes at a time when India’s DeepTech ecosystem is gaining significant momentum, with increased investments and government initiatives aimed at fostering technological innovation. Robotics and automation are set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of industrial operations, and Anscer Robotics is well-positioned to capitalise on this growing demand.

"The journey of Anscer Robotics has been one of continuous learning, innovation, and perseverance. Scaling a DeepTech startup in the robotics space comes with its own set of challenges, but having access to a strong ecosystem like SanchiConnect has made a significant difference. Being part of this community has provided us with valuable industry connections, technical collaborations, and insights that have shaped our approach to automation. Additionally, having SanchiConnect as our trusted strategic advisor has been instrumental in helping us navigate the investment landscape, secure strategic partnerships, and accelerate our growth. With this funding, we are excited to strengthen our presence in global markets and push the boundaries of autonomous robotics in industrial automation.” said Raghu Venkatesh, Co-founder and Chief Business Officer, Anscer Robotics.

"This funding marks a pivotal moment for ANSCER Robotics as we scale our operations, enhance our technology, and expand our market presence," said Ribin Mathew, CEO, Anscer Robotics. "With automation demand surging across industries, we remain committed to making robotics more accessible, intelligent, and seamlessly integrated into industrial ecosystems."

As part of this expansion, Mark Messina, former Amazon/Kiva Robotics executive, has joined ANSCER Robotics as Managing Director & CEO of U.S. operations. With decades of expertise in robotics and automation, Messina will lead the company’s mission to deliver advanced AMRs, AGVs, and intelligent automation solutions to businesses across the U.S.

"Anscer Robotics is a great example of how DeepTech startups in India are redefining industrial automation. Supporting such high-impact startups with access to capital, strategic partnerships, and market expansion is critical to strengthening India's DeepTech landscape. We look forward to seeing Anscer Robotics scale new heights and lead the next wave of robotics-driven transformation.” Shares Dr. Sunil K Shekhawat, CEO, SanchiConnect

Since its inception, Anscer Robotics has rapidly gained traction, delivering scalable automation solutions to some of the world’s leading industrial enterprises. The startup’s AMRs integrate seamlessly into existing manufacturing workflows, offering real-time analytics, AI-driven optimisation, and adaptive navigation capabilities.

With rising demand for robotics-driven automation, Anscer Robotics is focused on expanding into new geographies and diversifying its product lines to cater to evolving industry needs. The new investment will accelerate research and development, strengthen manufacturing capabilities, and drive greater adoption of AMRs across global markets.

About Anscer Robotics

Founded in 2020 by Ribin Mathew, Ebin Sunny, Raghu Venkatesh, and Raj Mohan, Anscer Robotics is at the forefront of industrial automation with its intelligent AMRs. The company designs advanced robotic solutions for manufacturing and supply chains, helping enterprises streamline their operations with automation.

About SanchiConnect

Founded in 2022, SanchiConnect is committed to empowering startups by focusing on key areas such as investor outreach, mentorship, and corporate networking. SanchiConnect’s DeepTech community platform brings together over 3,000 DeepTech startups, investors, incubation centres, and corporates, enabling seamless networking and knowledge exchange. Believing in the power of collaboration, SanchiConnect drives growth and success within the DeepTech ecosystem through its GTM and funding-led accelerator programs, providing early capital, mentorship, POCs, market access, and networking opportunities to startups.

SanchiConnect Unveils the 2nd Phase of Its Multi-City Deep Tech Startups Roadshow, Amplifying Innovation Across India

Building on the success of connecting groundbreaking startups from untapped regions with investors and leading industry mentors, SanchiConnect unveils the second phase of its multi-city deep tech roadshow.

SanchiConnect, the thriving deep-tech community, proudly announces the continuation of its unique roadshow, which has historically unearthed disruptive startups from India's burgeoning towns and cities. This initiative, in collaboration with esteemed partners HSBC India, Arctic Invent, and Startup Movers, aims to further bridge the gap between innovative tech entrepreneurs and top-tier industry mentors within the SanchiConnect ecosystem.

The roadshow's first phase set a high bar, identifying innovative startups and facilitating investment opportunities, directly contributing to India's 5 trillion-dollar economic mission. In this second phase, the roadshow will journey through Delhi (9th December), Hyderabad (11th December), Bengaluru (12th December), Chennai (13th December), Coimbatore (14th December), and Kochi (15th December) creating a hub of innovation and investment potential.

"We are excited to embark on this journey with HSBC India, Arctic Invent, and Startup Movers, this roadshow signifies our dedication to nurturing the deep tech ecosystem in India. By connecting startups with investors and providing a platform for collaboration, we aim to catalyze innovation and drive sustainable growth. We extend our sincere thanks to our esteemed partners, HSBC India, Arctic Invent and Startup Movers, for their invaluable support. Together, we look forward to creating a transformative experience for startups, investors, and the entire deep tech community." said Sunil Shekhawat, CEO at SanchiConnect.

Arctic Invent, a global intellectual property consulting firm, will contribute its expertise to the roadshow. Focused on patent, trademark, design, and copyright registration, Arctic Invent aims to help businesses drive innovation and create lasting business value.

Startup Movers specializes in guiding startups through business planning and strategy, helping them avoid common pitfalls and streamline their path to success with expert advisory and consulting services.

About SanchiConnect:

SanchiConnect is India’s largest community for Deep Tech Startups, Investors, Enterprise Partners, and Service Providers. Committed to helping deep tech companies scale and succeed, SanchiConnect believes in the potential of deep tech to drive sustainable growth and contribute significantly to India's trillion-dollar economic agenda.

AI-based Port Automation Pioneer Docker Vision Raises Pre-Seed Funding Via SanchiConnect’s PreSeed Accelerator Program

Thinkuvate and SeaFund invests in the AI-based product company focusing on Port Automation

AI-based port automation pioneer, Docker Vision, recently secured preseed funding through esteemed venture capital firms Thinkuvate and SeaFund through SanchiConnect’s PreSeed Accelerator program.

The funding infusion empowers Docker Vision to not only refine its groundbreaking products further but also expand its brand, conduct additional Proof of Concepts (POCs), and consolidate its operations. Beyond acting as a monetary injection, this significant investment is a testament to the trust and belief in Docker Vision’s commitment to delivering transformative port automation solutions.

Docker Vision’s flagship AI-powered Gate OCR, or dOCR, is a game-changer in the industry. It's making waves not only by reducing waiting times and lowering carbon emissions but also introducing panoramic imaging for efficient damage detection in cargo handling—a feature that sets Docker Vision distinctly apart from competitors.

Expressing enthusiasm and gratitude for the investment, Docker Vision’s Co-Founder, Mr. Prajith Nair, noted, “This funding is vital for our journey and vision of revolutionizing the maritime industry with unparalleled automation solutions. We deeply appreciate the confidence and support from our investors, setting sail towards a horizon of innovation and substantial impact.”

SanchiConnect's contribution to Docker Vision's trajectory has been pivotal. Through strategic mentorship and invaluable guidance, SanchiConnect's Accelerator Program has been a cornerstone for Docker Vision, offering a gateway to a broad network of industry connections and collaborations.

Mr. Sunil Shekhawat, CEO and Founder of SanchiConnect said: "We are delighted to witness Docker Vision's remarkable journey and their recent funding milestone. Docker Vision's success reflects the essence of SanchiConnect's mission – to empower deep-tech startups with the resources and mentorship needed to thrive. We look forward to continuing our support for startups like Docker Vision, paving the way for transformations in various industries."

As a dedicated platform for nurturing deep-tech startups, SanchiConnect facilitates growth by providing essential resources, such as funding and strategic partnerships. With a global outlook, SanchiConnect is steadfast in its commitment to fostering collaborations between Indian tech enterprises and their international counterparts.

Looking ahead, Docker Vision, with its steadfast commitment and recent funding, is gearing up for remarkable advancements in the port automation domain. The company envisions securing additional investment shortly, anticipating substantial progress in revenue, customer acquisition, and product refinement.

In conclusion, Docker Vision, backed by Thinkuvate, SeaFund, and with strategic assistance from SanchiConnect, is poised for innovative leaps in the maritime sector. The company is charting a course for significant transformation and leadership in the realm of port automation, ready to set new benchmarks in the industry.

DeepTech focused SanchiConnect's PreSeed Accelerator Announces Preseed Funding, Market Access Support to 6 Green Mobility Innovations

The program received 552 applications from all over the country of which 6 startups after 75 days of intense screening and diligence were picked for investments

SanchiConnect, a community focused on deep-tech start-ups, investors, and corporations unveiled its PreSeed Accelerator's latest milestone in driving innovation and sustainability. Six exceptional startups have been selected for acceleration and capital infusion of INR 75 Lac, coupled with 100 days of focused market access support, through the pioneering PreSeed Accelerator program. This initiative is set to catapult the development of innovative solutions in the realm of green mobility.

The program received 552 applications from all over the country of which 6 startups after 75 days of intense screening and diligence were picked for investments. The selected cohort startups include EVhicle, Simactricals, Dockervision, Swappdesign, PerUse and The Energy Company.

“India stands on the cusp of a revolution in the field of sustainable mobility, and our partnership with Sanchi Connect for the Green Mobility Accelerator program serves as an exceptional platform to gain access to the entire Indian Mobility landscape along with providing a comprehensive pipeline of ongoing developments across the ecosystem, as we see great potential in these new age tech companies" said Karan Mittal, Partner, Ev2 Ventures. 

Addison Appu, ThinKuvate VP Investments said he and the team is excited to participate in this unique program and believes that “EV sector is going to witness unprecedented growth in the coming years, Be it battery tech, charging tech or EV financing, all the sub sectors present plethora of opportunities where we will see new unicorns emerging”.

The PreSeed Accelerator with cohort 1 as "Green Mobility," is a testament to SanchiConnect's unwavering commitment to fostering entrepreneurial talent and propelling innovation. With the backing of leading micro VC partners Ev2 ventures, Sea Fund, and ThinKuvate, the selected startups will benefit from not only substantial funding but also unparalleled mentorship and strategic guidance. The accelerator was launched in partnership with Yamaha Motors Solutions India, Desai & Diwanji law firm, and IDFC First Bank.

Speaking on the Preseed Funding Mayuresh Raut, Managing Partner at Seafund said “We are extremely bullish about the 6 startups that we are backing in this program. It’s a great representation of Indian entrepreneurs using their domain understanding and technical skills to solve India specific problems in Mobility that is going to change the face of this industry in the coming days.”

"Today, we mark a pivotal moment in our mission to champion innovations in deep and emerging tech," said Dr. Sunil Shekhawat, CEO of SanchiConnect. "Our PreSeed Accelerator program, in partnership with esteemed micro VCs and industry majors is poised to empower these startups to redefine the future of green mobility."

SanchiConnect itself is fortified by the formidable backing of the management of BaringIndia PE fund and IP Ventures, further solidifying the program's foundation. This strategic collaboration reflects a shared vision to foster an ecosystem where groundbreaking ideas can thrive, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and vibrant future.

In line with its commitment to addressing pressing global challenges, Dr. Sunil Shekhawat announced the imminent launch of the next PreSeed Accelerator cohort, which will centre around climate technology and sustainability. This announcement underscores SanchiConnect's dedication to being a driving force in advancing solutions that hold the potential to reshape industries and positively impact the world.

Ex-Nasscom Exec, Baring PE and IP Ventures Team Up to Support SanchiConnect, A Fundraising Platform for DeepTech Innovations

Baring Private Equity Partners India and Inflection Point Ventures have teamed up to support Sanchiconnect, a fundraising platform to support deep & emerging tech innovations in India.

Building & growing a deep tech startup is a challenge and in India its like an uphill battle.

Despite the availability of the resources and strong growth metrics (53% CAGR over the last 10 years), startups operating in this space are still eyeing access to seed capital and thematic funds and to reach potential customers who are mostly enterprises they need market access and POC-led engagements.

Deep tech startups look for deep academic knowledge & expertise while hiring for their team. And it shouldn't surprise you if you find that 85% of Founders/CEOs believe that DeepTech talent comes at substantial costs.

All these challenges & hurdles need immediate fix by creating corporate, VC and community-backed incubators for enhancing outreach and driving innovation, academia collaboration, and world-class innovation clusters.

Addressing these fallbacks, Dr Sunil Shekhawat, ex-Head of Products & NASSCOM Deeptech Club backed by Baring Private Equity Fund India and Inflection Point Ventures launches a fundraising, one-stop support platform to drive deep tech innovations from India.

Sanchiconnect enables founders to raise funds from global VCs, demonstrate their product to enterprises, hire tech talent and more- everything around growing business globally.

To fast-track funding in deep tech startups, Sanchiconnect has started with a network of more than 50 Angels, VCs and Investment networks like Capital2B (InfoEdge), Pi Ventures, Speciale Invest, Nexus VP, Yournest VC, GrowX, Ankur Capital, Modular Capital and many more as Investment partners to fund startups on the platform.

Sharing his vision Dr Shekhwat, CEO, of Sanchiconnect says" With a vision to democratize Indian innovation globally on four fronts - fund accessibility, enterprise sales, tech hiring and business services, we expect Sanchiconnect to become leading discovery to transaction enablement platform for deep & emerging tech innovations from India for the world."

The platform has come out of stealth mode in the last week of August and has already confirmed three successful term sheets through the investor partner network. The platform will facilitate investments in early-stage as well as growth-stage startups, with deal sizes ranging from $100,000 to $10 million.

Ankur Mittal, Founding Partner at IP Ventures, said, "The quantum of deep tech funding proposals coming to us has been growing consistently over the years and so does our member’s interest. This partnership is symbolic of our commitment to go higher on deep tech investing and reduce the timeframe in rolling out term sheets to deep tech founders."

"India has the potential to become a leading hub for deep disruptive technology companies. SanchiConnect is an exciting platform enabling fundraising, recruitment, customer acquisition and strategic partnerships for this ecosystem. We are delighted to partner with SanchiConnect to constructively engage with this ecosystem," said Rahul Bhasin, Managing Partner, Baring PE India Fund.