Campus Fund's Bold Leap: A $100 Million Investment in Student Innovation
June 23, 2025, 11:30 am
In the bustling world of venture capital, a new player is making waves. Campus Fund has just launched its third fund, a hefty $100 million aimed at fueling the dreams of student-led startups. This is not just a financial move; it’s a statement. It’s a commitment to the next generation of entrepreneurs who are eager to change the world.
Founded in 2020 by Richa Bajpai, Campus Fund started as a thesis project at the London Business School. It has since evolved into a powerhouse, dedicated to supporting founders who are either still in university, have dropped out, or graduated within the last three years. This unique focus sets Campus Fund apart. It’s not just about the money; it’s about nurturing raw talent and bold ideas.
The firm has already secured over $50 million in its first close. This is just the beginning. With plans to support up to 60 startups over the next four years, the fund is poised to make a significant impact. Initial investments will range from INR 1 crore to INR 8 crore, with half of the fund earmarked for follow-on investments. This strategy ensures that promising startups receive the support they need as they grow.
Campus Fund’s portfolio is impressive. It includes innovative companies like Digantara, which focuses on space situational awareness, and Sama, an online dispute resolution platform. EtherealX is working on reusable rockets, while GreenGrahi is pioneering insect protein production. These startups are not just ideas; they are solutions to real-world problems. They are the future, and Campus Fund is betting on them.
The backing for this new fund comes from a diverse group of investors. Family offices, institutions, and prominent individuals have all thrown their support behind Campus Fund. Notable limited partners include Kanwaljit Singh of Fireside Ventures and Bharat Shah, co-founder of HDFC Bank. This blend of support adds credibility and strength to the fund.
But what makes Campus Fund truly special is its network. The firm evaluates over 7,000 startups annually through a network of more than 100 student scouts. This grassroots approach allows Campus Fund to tap into the pulse of innovation. These scouts are not just eyes and ears; they are part of the community. They understand the challenges and aspirations of their peers.
Richa Bajpai’s journey is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship. She began her own entrepreneurial path in her final year of engineering. Now, she’s in a position to help others chase their dreams. This full-circle moment is not just personal; it’s a reflection of the mission behind Campus Fund. It’s about empowering young founders to take risks and pursue their passions.
The timing of this fund launch is crucial. The startup ecosystem is evolving rapidly. Young entrepreneurs are more connected than ever. They have access to resources, mentorship, and a global audience. Campus Fund recognizes this shift and is ready to capitalize on it. By investing in student-led startups, the fund is not just funding businesses; it’s investing in the future.
The challenges for young entrepreneurs are real. They face competition, funding hurdles, and the pressure to succeed. Campus Fund aims to alleviate some of these pressures. By providing financial support and mentorship, the fund helps these founders navigate the tumultuous waters of startup life. It’s like giving them a lifeboat in a stormy sea.
Moreover, the focus on follow-on investments is strategic. Many startups struggle to secure additional funding as they scale. By reserving half of the fund for follow-on investments, Campus Fund ensures that its portfolio companies have the resources they need to grow. This approach fosters long-term relationships and increases the chances of success.
The landscape of venture capital is changing. Traditional models are being challenged by new ideas and approaches. Campus Fund is at the forefront of this change. It’s not just about the money; it’s about building a community of innovators. It’s about creating an ecosystem where young entrepreneurs can thrive.
As Campus Fund embarks on this new journey, the excitement is palpable. The potential for innovation is limitless. With a strong foundation and a clear vision, the fund is set to make a lasting impact. It’s a bold leap into the future, and the world will be watching.
In conclusion, Campus Fund’s $100 million third fund is more than just a financial initiative. It’s a beacon of hope for student entrepreneurs. It’s a commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators. As the fund begins to deploy its capital, the possibilities are endless. The future is bright, and Campus Fund is leading the way.
Founded in 2020 by Richa Bajpai, Campus Fund started as a thesis project at the London Business School. It has since evolved into a powerhouse, dedicated to supporting founders who are either still in university, have dropped out, or graduated within the last three years. This unique focus sets Campus Fund apart. It’s not just about the money; it’s about nurturing raw talent and bold ideas.
The firm has already secured over $50 million in its first close. This is just the beginning. With plans to support up to 60 startups over the next four years, the fund is poised to make a significant impact. Initial investments will range from INR 1 crore to INR 8 crore, with half of the fund earmarked for follow-on investments. This strategy ensures that promising startups receive the support they need as they grow.
Campus Fund’s portfolio is impressive. It includes innovative companies like Digantara, which focuses on space situational awareness, and Sama, an online dispute resolution platform. EtherealX is working on reusable rockets, while GreenGrahi is pioneering insect protein production. These startups are not just ideas; they are solutions to real-world problems. They are the future, and Campus Fund is betting on them.
The backing for this new fund comes from a diverse group of investors. Family offices, institutions, and prominent individuals have all thrown their support behind Campus Fund. Notable limited partners include Kanwaljit Singh of Fireside Ventures and Bharat Shah, co-founder of HDFC Bank. This blend of support adds credibility and strength to the fund.
But what makes Campus Fund truly special is its network. The firm evaluates over 7,000 startups annually through a network of more than 100 student scouts. This grassroots approach allows Campus Fund to tap into the pulse of innovation. These scouts are not just eyes and ears; they are part of the community. They understand the challenges and aspirations of their peers.
Richa Bajpai’s journey is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship. She began her own entrepreneurial path in her final year of engineering. Now, she’s in a position to help others chase their dreams. This full-circle moment is not just personal; it’s a reflection of the mission behind Campus Fund. It’s about empowering young founders to take risks and pursue their passions.
The timing of this fund launch is crucial. The startup ecosystem is evolving rapidly. Young entrepreneurs are more connected than ever. They have access to resources, mentorship, and a global audience. Campus Fund recognizes this shift and is ready to capitalize on it. By investing in student-led startups, the fund is not just funding businesses; it’s investing in the future.
The challenges for young entrepreneurs are real. They face competition, funding hurdles, and the pressure to succeed. Campus Fund aims to alleviate some of these pressures. By providing financial support and mentorship, the fund helps these founders navigate the tumultuous waters of startup life. It’s like giving them a lifeboat in a stormy sea.
Moreover, the focus on follow-on investments is strategic. Many startups struggle to secure additional funding as they scale. By reserving half of the fund for follow-on investments, Campus Fund ensures that its portfolio companies have the resources they need to grow. This approach fosters long-term relationships and increases the chances of success.
The landscape of venture capital is changing. Traditional models are being challenged by new ideas and approaches. Campus Fund is at the forefront of this change. It’s not just about the money; it’s about building a community of innovators. It’s about creating an ecosystem where young entrepreneurs can thrive.
As Campus Fund embarks on this new journey, the excitement is palpable. The potential for innovation is limitless. With a strong foundation and a clear vision, the fund is set to make a lasting impact. It’s a bold leap into the future, and the world will be watching.
In conclusion, Campus Fund’s $100 million third fund is more than just a financial initiative. It’s a beacon of hope for student entrepreneurs. It’s a commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators. As the fund begins to deploy its capital, the possibilities are endless. The future is bright, and Campus Fund is leading the way.