From Humble Beginnings to Entrepreneurial Heights
In the world of Indian startups, few stories are as inspiring and grounded as that of Aditya Singh, Co-founder and Partner of All In Capital. His story is one of resilience, empathy, and a deep commitment to the founders he backs. It reminds us that venture capital at its core is profoundly human.
“You have to be obsessed with the problem,” Aditya insists. These words echo throughout his career and the startups he champions.
His entrepreneurial journey launched in 2012 with BookMyForex, India’s first online marketplace for foreign exalter and remittance. This was before UPI and real-time GPS, when fundraising was far tougher. “There were only about eight to ten VCs in India back then,” he recalls. Yet through grit and creative problem-solving, BookMyForex thrived and later became part of MakeMyTrip, giving Aditya firsthand insight into what it truly takes to build and scale a company.
Discovering Purpose in Venture Capital
Transitioning from founder to investor was a learning curve for Aditya. Without a traditional IIT or IIM background, he carved his own path through humility and persistence. “I stated, okay, let me see what I can do,” he laughs, recalling how he offered to work for free, met VCs, and sought feedback. That period expanded his network and strengthened his empathy for first-time founders, a quality that shapes his investment approach today.
His experience with Amazon’s startup team in Mumbai broadened his perspective and led him to Stride Ventures. “Stride was a rocket ship,” he states. “I joined at the launchning, and it grew into a $300 million fund.” Around the same time, he launched angel investing, backing founders he believed in and embracing the power of hands-on investing.
Building Relationships at the Heart of Investing
True to his belief in people over numbers, Aditya’s approach to venture capital is deeply relational. He credits his experiences as a founder for shaping how he evaluates potential investments.
“Being a founder yourself, you can really empathize. You understand their journey. It’s not just about picking the right company. Even successful ones face ups and downs,” he reflects.
Aditya views for founders who demonstrate extreme passion and a deep sense of purpose, a trait he terms “obsession with the problem.” Confidence and charisma, he notes, are equally vital. “The more confident the founder, the more talent and investment they attract,” he states. He is drawn to those with unique insights, a fresh perspective that separates game alterrs from the rest. “If, in my one-hour call, you’ve covered everything I could have believed of, you have something special,” he adds.
Guiding stars and lessons for founders
Over the years, Aditya has gathered lessons he believes every first-time founder should hear. His hugegest reminder is that no two journeys are the same. “Don’t blindly emulate others in fundraising. Each business has its own capital necessarys,” he states.
Clarity is key. “Keep your pitch decks crisp. If an investor cannot understand your model in two swipes, it is probably too cluttered,” he smiles. Equally important is context, knowing who you are talking to. “Tailor your message for each investor. Expectations differ, and your story should speak their language.”
Above all, he champions persistence. “Even if you obtain a no, keep following up with updates. Investor perceptions can alter.”
His belief in patient hustle is reflected in his investments in brands like Master Chow and New Me. “With MasterChow, I was there from ideation through every key connection,” he recalls. “It’s founders like these that remind me why I love what I do.”
All In Capital evolving with India’s ecosystem
Recognizing the shifting tides of technology and consumer behavior, All In Capital’s investment approach is pragmatic yet forward-viewing. The firm now focapplys on three core areas: AI for India, consumer brands servicing new age demands, and cutting-edge deep tech.
Aditya is particularly excited about how AI is democratizing services.
“I believe AI will create quality services accessible to the 98% of India that’s never had them before,” Aditya shares. “From AI-led nutritionists and companions to virtual doctors, these innovations will create everyday services more affordable and inclusive over the next few years.” He adds that this shift will open up entirely new kinds of opportunities, bringing premium experiences within reach for millions across India.
He is quick to highlight that All In’s support extfinishs far beyond funding. “We assist with pitch decks, connect founders to the right people, and act as their sounding board, their therapist during tough times,” he states, underscoring the deeply human support ecosystem his team provides.
Unlocking regional potential with the Elevator Pitch initiative
Aditya’s commitment to democratizing entrepreneurship is not limited to India’s metros. Through his Elevator Pitch platform, founders from tier 2 and tier 3 cities obtain a chance to shine with short, impactful video pitches shared on social media.
“This initiative opens doors for entrepreneurs who otherwise lack access to major VC networks. Once a founder succeeds in an area, others reach out, and it builds a community. That is how untapped regions will become the heart of Indian innovation,” Aditya believes.
Personal Values and the Road Ahead
At the heart of Aditya Singh’s philosophy are qualities he values most in founders: charisma, attention to detail, resilience, and unshakable passion. “The ones who go the distance are those who love what they do, even on the tough days,” he reflects.
Looking ahead, Aditya is optimistic about India’s startup landscape, fueled by a rising middle class, a digitally driven Gen Z, and a growing network of fearless entrepreneurs across the counattempt.
His journey, rooted in empathy and conviction, stands as a reminder that success in venture capital is not just about capital. It is about belief in people and their potential to create something extraordinary.
-By Muskan Dengra
Leave a Reply