Regen-Ag 2.0: Bio-Stimulants and Insect Protein Driving the Post-Fertiliser Era
The rise of Regen-Ag 2.0 marks a new chapter in sustainable agriculture. Even as global ag-tech funding slows, ag-bio start-ups like GreenGrahi continue to secure funding by focusing on bio-stimulants, insect protein, and soil microbiome innovations. This post-fertiliser revolution is driven by the dual pressure of improving unit economics for farmers while meeting climate targets. Keev Capital’s environmental-tech thesis focuses on soil health and climate-positive agriculture as key pillars for long-term impact and scalable returns. The Shift Toward Bio-Stimulants and Alternative Inputs Traditional chemical fertilisers are facing both environmental and economic headwinds. Bio-stimulants, derived from microbes, plant extracts, or natural compounds, help enhance nutrient uptake and improve plant resilience without the runoff risks of synthetic fertilisers. Insect protein and bio-based amendments are also entering the mainstream as part of circular agricultural models. Regen-Ag 2.0 represents a structural pivot away from yield-at-any-cost models. With agricultural emissions accounting for nearly 20% of global greenhouse gases, farmers and investors are seeking inputs that deliver productivity while reducing climate impact. Keev Capital tracks how bio-stimulant adoption and insect protein solutions can integrate with consumer goods supply chains by creating traceable, sustainable produce. Keev Capital’s Soil Health and Climate Thesis Our investment thesis in regenerative agriculture emphasizes two interlocking themes: improving soil health and reducing climate risk. Healthy soils sequester more carbon, retain water efficiently, and reduce reliance on costly chemical inputs. Start-ups that measure and verify these benefits are better positioned to tap into climate finance and carbon markets. We look for companies that combine biological innovations with digital verification layers, often powered by vertical AI, to monitor crop response and soil conditions. By embedding technology into field operations, start-ups can provide real-time insights to farmers, improve adoption rates, and generate reliable ESG data for impact investors. The Unit Economics We Expect Before Investing For ag-bio start-ups to achieve scalable adoption, unit economics must align with farmer incentives. Keev Capital evaluates: Input Cost Parity Bio-stimulants and insect-protein amendments should deliver equal or better returns than chemical fertilisers at competitive costs per acre. Yield Uplift and Risk Reduction We track yield improvements, typically aiming for 8–15% uplift, alongside measurable reductions in crop failure risk due to drought or pests. Distribution and Field Ops Scalability Start-ups must demonstrate the ability to scale distribution without prohibitive field support costs. Blended tech-plus-field models, similar to those in healthcare innovations, often accelerate rural adoption. Climate-Linked Monetisation We favor companies that can generate verified carbon or biodiversity credits, creating secondary revenue streams that improve profitability and attract climate-aligned capital. Why the Post-Fertiliser Revolution Matters Regen-Ag 2.0 is not just about replacing inputs; it is about reshaping the farm-to-market value chain. By adopting bio-stimulants, insect protein, and circular nutrient flows, India’s farms can become more resilient, less carbon-intensive, and more profitable. For investors, this creates defensible opportunities in climate-positive agriculture with global relevance. Keev Capital actively engages with founders who can align soil health innovation with unit economics that drive adoption at scale. Our blended approach combines growth capital with strategic guidance to navigate regulatory frameworks, climate finance opportunities, and market linkages. Companies with strong science, scalable field operations, and clear farmer ROI stand to define the post-fertiliser era. Conclusion and Call to Action The Regen-Ag 2.0 movement is transforming agriculture into a climate-aligned, profit-sustainable sector. Bio-stimulants, insect protein, and regenerative practices are no longer niche, they are the foundation of the post-fertiliser revolution. Start-ups that solve for both farmer profitability and environmental impact will lead this transition, creating scalable and defensible businesses. Keev Capital continues to explore investments in regenerative agriculture that marry innovation with measurable climate benefits. Founders building solutions in bio-stimulants, circular nutrients, and soil analytics can leverage our expertise in environmental-tech and blended finance. Our team is ready to partner with innovators committed to driving India’s agricultural transformation and shaping the global climate-positive agri-tech ecosystem.
Vertical AI in Healthcare: Redefining Patient Outcomes with Targeted Intelligence
Vertical AI in healthcare is no longer a futuristic idea—it’s happening now, revolutionizing how patient care is delivered and managed. Unlike general AI systems, vertical AI is tailored to solve industry-specific challenges, offering targeted intelligence that enhances precision, efficiency, and decision-making in real-time clinical environments. With the healthcare industry producing over 30% of the world’s data but struggling with fragmented systems, vertical AI emerges as a powerful solution to streamline diagnoses, personalize treatment, and drive value-based outcomes. Keev Capital is at the forefront of identifying and investing in this transformation, as seen in our vertical AI investment thesis. Specialized Diagnostics and Accuracy in Clinical Settings Healthcare providers are increasingly adopting AI-driven diagnostic tools, and research shows that AI-assisted radiology has achieved a 94.4% accuracy rate, often surpassing human specialists in early detection tasks such as identifying breast cancer or pulmonary embolisms (Nature.com). The difference lies in specificity: vertical AI systems are trained on specialized medical datasets and optimized for domain-specific applications. This capability not only shortens diagnosis time but also reduces medical errors, a critical factor in value-based care models that seek to improve outcomes and reduce cost. For Keev, whose healthcare investment focus targets innovation-driven impact, vertical AI perfectly aligns with our mission to fund future-ready solutions. Enhancing Clinical Decision Support Systems One of the clearest advantages of vertical AI in healthcare is clinical decision support. Platforms built with vertical AI can evaluate thousands of variables from patient histories, genetic data, and real-time health monitoring to offer treatment recommendations with unprecedented precision. Unlike horizontal AI tools, these solutions are tightly integrated with Electronic Health Records (EHRs) and comply with regulatory requirements like HIPAA and GDPR. As healthtech continues to evolve, our insights from sectors like fintech show that regulatory compliance paired with intelligent automation significantly improves adoption rates across institutional partners. Powering Personalized Medicine at Scale The integration of vertical AI in personalized medicine is accelerating. AI algorithms now guide genomic sequencing, predicting patient responses to medications and therapies. According to a report by McKinsey, personalized treatment models powered by AI could lead to a 20–40% reduction in hospital readmissions by tailoring interventions for chronic conditions (McKinsey & Company). For impact-driven firms like Keev Capital, supporting such scalable, equity-focused innovation is core to how we select partners in healthcare and beyond. In fact, our interest in education technology also mirrors this principle of personalization driving better outcomes. Operational Efficiency in Complex Systems Vertical AI also contributes to operational efficiency, especially in healthcare systems facing staff shortages and rising costs. Intelligent resource scheduling, predictive maintenance of medical equipment, and automated triage systems all help reduce bottlenecks and enhance the patient experience. These operational insights are closely related to the environmental and logistical innovations we champion within environmental tech, where AI optimizes sustainability and performance. Empowering Consumer Health Through Connected AI Beyond hospitals and clinics, vertical AI is reshaping consumer-facing health solutions, such as wearable devices that offer continuous health monitoring and early detection of anomalies. This convergence of AI and consumer goods empowers individuals with better control over their wellness journey, reinforcing preventative care. As AI-enabled diagnostics and therapeutics become more accessible, the focus shifts from reactive care to proactive well-being. Conclusion: The AI-Powered Future of Health For investors and founders alike, vertical AI in healthcare presents not just a technological leap, but a fundamental rethinking of how care is accessed, personalized, and delivered. As Keev Capital continues to invest in this domain, we welcome conversations with visionary entrepreneurs building next-generation tools for global health equity. If you’re working on scalable AI-powered solutions or want to learn more about our investment lens, get in touch today. In conclusion, the rise of vertical AI in healthcare is not just a trend—it’s a paradigm shift. This specialized AI empowers healthcare systems to move from generalized treatment models to tailored interventions, improves diagnostic accuracy, and enhances operational outcomes. For early-stage investors like Keev Capital, this convergence of impact and innovation is a signal to double down on verticalized intelligence. We believe that the next wave of transformative health ventures will be those deeply integrated into the clinical and operational fabric of care delivery. If you’re building or backing a startup leveraging vertical AI in healthcare, now is the time to align with mission-driven capital that understands your challenges and amplifies your purpose.
Fintech Innovation in India: Unlocking Financial Inclusion for the Next Billion
Fintech innovation for financial inclusion is transforming economies across India and emerging markets. With over 1.4 billion people in India, and hundreds of millions still underserved by traditional banks, new financial technologies are redefining access to credit, insurance, and digital payments. In markets where 63% of people are still classified as “underbanked,” mobile-first and AI-powered fintech platforms are filling the gap—efficiently, affordably, and inclusively. At Keev Capital, our fintech investment focus is rooted in scaling such high-impact, future-ready solutions that empower the next billion users. Why India is a Global Fintech Innovation Hub India has become a beacon of financial inclusion, supported by government initiatives like Aadhaar, UPI (Unified Payments Interface), and Jan Dhan Yojana, which have collectively brought over 500 million people into the financial ecosystem (World Bank). UPI alone processed over 10.5 billion transactions in May 2024, making India the global leader in real-time payments. Fintech startups have leveraged this infrastructure to build neobanks, credit engines, and micro-insurance platforms that reach even rural and remote populations. Keev’s lens on emerging market innovation is shaped by such data-rich, infrastructure-ready ecosystems. The Role of AI and Data in Inclusive Fintech Models Inclusion-driven fintech relies heavily on AI and alternative credit scoring, especially for consumers with no formal credit history. By analyzing data from smartphones, utility payments, and digital behavior, startups can offer nano-credit, BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later), and microloans with high repayment accuracy. A report by BCG found that AI-based underwriting has reduced loan default rates by up to 30% in underserved segments (BCG Fintech in Asia). This trend mirrors Keev’s broader interest in vertical AI, where deep specialization creates asymmetric advantages in decision-making. Gender Inclusion and Micro-Entrepreneurship One of the most promising developments in fintech innovation for financial inclusion is the empowerment of women micro-entrepreneurs. Platforms like Kiva, Kinara Capital, and PayNearby offer working capital, business tools, and digital banking to millions of women-led enterprises in tier-2 and rural regions. According to the IFC, increasing women’s access to financial services could add $700 billion to global GDP annually (IFC Gender Finance). As Keev Capital prioritizes inclusive innovation, we also champion education access and entrepreneurial support that levels the economic playing field. Cross-Border Fintech and Emerging Market Scalability Beyond India, similar fintech models are now being replicated in Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Sub-Saharan Africa. Innovations like QR-based payments, digital KYC, and agent-led distribution are helping scale services rapidly where traditional banks fail to reach. Emerging fintech players are also integrating sustainability, a key vertical we explore within environmental tech, by linking microfinance with climate-smart agriculture and clean energy loans. Conclusion: From Access to Agency Fintech innovation for financial inclusion is more than an access story—it’s about agency, equity, and long-term impact. As billions in emerging markets come online, the opportunity lies in building ethical, scalable, and mission-aligned financial systems. Keev Capital is proud to back founders who harness technology to serve the unserved while generating strong financial returns. If you’re building solutions that close gaps in access and affordability, our team is ready to support your journey—connect with us here. The future of financial inclusion will be built by innovators who understand not only the tech—but the trust required to serve new users. With the right blend of regulation, AI, and design-for-impact models, inclusive fintech will define how economies thrive in the coming decade. Investors and entrepreneurs who move early in this space will shape the financial infrastructure of the next generation.
Measuring Impact: Tools and Metrics That Guide Early-Stage Venture Capital
Impact metrics for early-stage investors are no longer optional—they are essential. As the lines between profit and purpose blur, founders and VCs alike are under growing pressure to prove that their work creates not just economic returns, but also meaningful social or environmental outcomes. Keev Capital has long championed this dual thesis, investing in sectors such as environmental tech, education, and healthcare where real-world impact is measurable and scalable. To do this well, early-stage investors must apply standardized, trusted frameworks that align with their investment goals and founder accountability. Common Frameworks for Measuring Impact There are several globally recognized frameworks that early-stage investors use to measure impact. The Impact Management Project (IMP) and IRIS+ by the Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN) remain two of the most commonly adopted standards. These tools offer shared definitions, outcome categories, and measurement principles that allow investors to benchmark social or environmental impact in a consistent, credible way. Keev Capital uses these tools not only to evaluate startups during due diligence but also to help founders build transparent reporting into their operational stack from day one. As more founders build solutions in fintech and vertical AI, having the ability to measure both financial performance and real-world impact becomes a key differentiator. Key Impact Metrics by Sector Metrics vary depending on sector, but early-stage investors often track both input metrics (resources used) and outcome metrics (results delivered). For example: The key is to set metrics that are both specific and attributable, so investors can avoid “impact washing” and instead fund companies making measurable change. These metrics also help founders secure follow-on funding by showing traction beyond revenue—something Keev emphasizes in mission-driven portfolio development. Quantitative vs. Qualitative Impact Assessment Quantitative data is powerful, but qualitative feedback can offer essential context. Surveys, case studies, and stakeholder interviews help early-stage VCs understand how a product or service is experienced at the ground level. According to Acumen’s Lean Data methodology, 85% of early-stage companies say they gain better customer insight from qualitative impact data than from traditional market research (Acumen.org). This blend of data types strengthens investment decisions and helps portfolio companies communicate their value to both mission-aligned customers and institutional capital providers. At Keev, we encourage founders to embed both types of measurement into their KPIs from the start, particularly in consumer-led and inclusion-driven models. Impact Reporting: Making Metrics Actionable Impact reporting should not be a static report for LPs—it should guide strategic decisions. Real-time dashboards and investor updates that integrate impact data with operational performance allow founders to stay aligned with investors on what matters most. Tools like 60 Decibels, Benevity, and ImpactAtlas are helping early-stage companies turn measurement into a growth asset, not a compliance task. Furthermore, the most promising founders are using impact data to refine their go-to-market strategies, adjust pricing models, and build trust with communities served. Keev’s role as an active partner includes helping our portfolio leverage these tools effectively across multiple growth stages. Conclusion: Metrics That Move Markets Measuring impact is not a reporting burden—it’s a strategic advantage. For early-stage investors, it clarifies which ventures are solving real problems and which ones are merely aspirational. At Keev Capital, we believe that scalable impact begins with disciplined, transparent measurement from day one. That’s why we partner with founders who are just as committed to social outcomes as they are to growth metrics. If you’re building a company that proves value through measurable impact, we’d love to hear from you—reach out to Keev Capital to start a conversation. Impact investing is no longer niche—it’s the new normal. In today’s market, founders and funds who embrace measurement will define the next decade of meaningful innovation.
Fintech Innovation for Financial Inclusion: What’s Emerging in India & Emerging Markets
Fintech innovation for financial inclusion is reshaping access to banking, credit, and digital payments for underserved populations across India and emerging markets. As of 2024, over 1.4 billion people in India are generating new financial data daily—yet a significant portion remain outside the formal financial system. Keev Capital actively invests in fintech solutions designed to close these gaps, using scalable, tech-driven models that promote equitable access and long-term economic inclusion. India as a Fintech Powerhouse India leads the world in real-time digital payments, processing over 10 billion UPI transactions monthly (NPCI.org). Initiatives like Aadhaar, Jan Dhan Yojana, and DigiLocker have created the infrastructure for fintech startups to build inclusive products—from mobile-first neobanks to micro-credit platforms. Keev Capital sees India’s model as a blueprint for other emerging economies, especially where regulatory infrastructure supports digital innovation and inclusion-focused scale. These lessons also inform Keev’s broader thesis in consumer goods and localized service delivery. AI and Alternative Credit Scoring One of the most transformative trends in fintech innovation for financial inclusion is the use of AI-powered credit scoring. Startups now evaluate creditworthiness based on alternative data—like mobile behavior, utility payments, and even WhatsApp usage—rather than traditional FICO scores. According to the World Bank, this approach could bring 1.7 billion unbanked people into the global financial system (WorldBank.org). Keev Capital also applies this logic to vertical AI, recognizing that sector-specific intelligence creates lasting competitive moats. Serving Women and Informal Workers Fintechs targeting women, gig workers, and informal micro-entrepreneurs are gaining traction, especially in tier-2 and rural areas. Platforms like Kinara Capital and KreditBee offer quick loans to small business owners—many of whom are first-time borrowers. According to McKinsey, closing the financial inclusion gap for women in emerging markets could unlock $700 billion in GDP growth annually (McKinsey & Company). This inclusion also aligns with Keev Capital’s efforts across sectors like education and healthcare, where equitable access drives long-term societal change. Cross-Border Fintech Trends Other emerging markets—including Nigeria, Indonesia, and Brazil—are building on India’s model. Many are launching digital public infrastructure (DPI) systems and encouraging startup ecosystems to innovate around local pain points. For example, QR-code payments and biometric authentication are now commonplace in Southeast Asia. Keev’s interest in environmental tech intersects with this trend, as climate-resilient microfinance and sustainability-linked loans gain ground in regions vulnerable to climate disruption. Conclusion: Impact-Driven Innovation in Motion Fintech innovation for financial inclusion is no longer just about access—it’s about building agency for millions of individuals previously excluded from the formal economy. From AI-based underwriting to mobile-first savings platforms, fintech is enabling self-reliance and upward mobility at unprecedented scale. Keev Capital continues to support ventures that combine smart technology with deep local context to reach the next billion users. As emerging markets continue to digitize, investors and founders who prioritize impact will lead the next wave of inclusive growth. At Keev Capital, we’re always open to partnerships that align innovation with equity. If your venture is driving financial inclusion in a meaningful way, let’s talk about how we can help you scale.
Emotionally Intelligent AI Tutors Are Redefining Learning in 2025
Education technology has entered a new era where AI isn’t just reactive, it’s intuitive. In 2025, emotionally intelligent AI tutors can recognize student mood, learning patterns, and disengagement signals in real time. These systems proactively deliver micro-learning nudges before students even know they’re struggling. At Keev Capital, we see this shift as a defining moment for the future of personalized education. Our investment focus on adaptive learning and ed-tech innovation is aligned with startups that use context-aware AI to deliver emotionally responsive support while maintaining strict data safeguards for minors. Micro-Learning Gets Smarter and More Human According to HolonIQ, the global ed-tech market will reach $404 billion by 2025, driven largely by AI-powered personalization. Today’s leading platforms break content into digestible formats and adjust delivery based on real-time feedback. Emotionally intelligent AI tutors go further by assessing sentiment through facial expressions, tone of voice, typing speed, and inactivity. This allows them to intervene with empathy, providing encouragement, simplifying content, or redirecting attention in the moment. Keev backs ventures that embed this kind of proactive micro-learning directly into everyday learning environments across mobile, desktop, and AR/VR interfaces. Why Emotional Intelligence in Ed-Tech Actually Works Research published in Nature Human Behaviour confirms that emotional alignment improves learning retention and motivation. Students are 35% more likely to complete tasks when digital platforms reflect understanding and empathy. The value of emotionally intelligent AI tutors lies not just in personalization but in perceived partnership—students feel guided, not judged. Keev’s interest in vertical AI applications extends to education precisely because sector-specific emotional modeling enhances both trust and academic performance. Privacy by Design: Protecting Minors in a Data-Rich Ecosystem Emotionally intelligent systems depend on sensitive data inputs—voice, video, biometrics—which raises real concerns about student privacy, especially for children and teenagers. Keev only considers ed-tech investments that demonstrate privacy-by-design architecture: edge processing, anonymized analytics, COPPA/GDPR compliance, and clear parent/student consent protocols. Our diligence process for education startups requires founders to not just explain their machine learning models but to defend their data governance practices. Adaptive Learning Platforms Need More Than Just AI The startups succeeding in this space are building complete ecosystems. It’s not enough to plug AI into old LMS tools—winners are reimagining everything from curriculum sequencing to emotional feedback loops. This means integrating smart scheduling, gamified feedback, parental dashboards, and real-time performance diagnostics. Keev’s approach to education investment goes beyond features—we seek companies solving for outcomes, not just engagement. T is is especially relevant in Asia and emerging markets, where affordable, high-impact learning tools are in high demand. What Keev Looks for in Emotionally Intelligent Ed-Tech Founders Our investment lens includes five core criteria: Founders who can meet these benchmarks while building mission-aligned platforms are a natural fit for Keev Capital’s education strategy. Conclusion: Learning Will Never Be the Same Emotionally intelligent AI tutors are redefining what it means to support a learner. By combining proactive micro-learning with real-time emotional insight, these platforms are unlocking new levels of personalization, motivation, and academic success. Keev Capital sees this as one of the most promising frontiers in AI-powered impact—and a clear opportunity for innovation that scales with purpose. If you’re building a next-generation education product that empowers learners while protecting their privacy, Keev wants to hear from you. We are actively investing in emotionally intelligent learning platforms that combine empathy, science, and design. Contact us directly to share your vision.
Funding Without the Fluff: How Climate Startups Can Raise Capital Without Greenwashing
With climate innovation in the spotlight, founders often face a critical challenge: how to raise capital for climate startups without being accused of greenwashing. As investors grow more cautious and regulations tighten, merely adding “sustainability” to your pitch deck won’t cut it. What investors want now is measurable impact, operational transparency, and scalability grounded in science, not marketing spin. At Keev Capital, we invest in climate and environmental tech companies that demonstrate both mission and margin. As funding in climate tech is projected to cross $150 billion globally by 2026, founders must differentiate themselves with credibility, not claims. To build trust with institutional investors and avoid the greenwashing trap, here’s how climate founders can prepare to fundraise the right way. The Rise of ESG Scrutiny in Climate Investment The global backlash against greenwashing is real. According to Bloomberg, over 20% of ESG funds faced review or reclassification due to misleading environmental claims. For startups, that means your impact narrative must be evidence-based and verifiable from day one. Whether you’re building in clean energy, circular supply chains, or carbon capture, transparency in your climate claims is as important as your product’s performance. Investors are increasingly integrating tools like lifecycle assessments, carbon intensity scoring, and third-party audits into their diligence workflows. Keev evaluates every climate-focused investment using science-aligned metrics, not feel-good slides. What Founders Must Prepare to Raise Climate Capital Credibly 1. Quantifiable Impact, Not Vague Commitments Rather than saying your solution is “eco-friendly” or “reduces emissions,” provide measurable data. What’s the estimated carbon reduction per user, per unit, or per megawatt-hour? How does your solution compare to existing alternatives in terms of energy use, waste reduction, or material efficiency? For example, in vertical AI applied to energy grids, impact can be measured in avoided downtime or efficiency gain. Tying your innovation to real numbers helps investors assess ROI and ESG impact simultaneously. 2. Third-Party Validation Matters Collaborate with researchers, labs, or certifying bodies that can validate your environmental claims. Even pre-seed companies can pilot with university accelerators, industry alliances, or cleantech labs to establish credibility early. Also, make sure to align with global frameworks like GHG Protocol, TCFD, or Science-Based Targets initiative, many of which investors use to score ESG integrity. 3. Climate Is a Market, Not Just a Mission Avoid leading with emotion or fear. Climate capital is still capital, investors are looking for scale, defensibility, and path to revenue. Whether you’re targeting carbon-conscious consumers or B2B buyers under regulatory pressure, outline your go-to-market plan clearly. This is particularly important for consumer goods companies using sustainable materials; your value prop must go beyond “eco-friendly” to compete in cost and convenience. 4. Don’t Ignore Risk Disclosure Honesty about technical or regulatory risks actually builds investor trust. For example, if your tech is hardware-dependent or reliant on subsidies, say so. Investors prefer founders who understand climate-sector complexity and plan for policy, supply chain, and compliance risks. Startups in healthcare or education have similar regulatory complexities, and investors respond better to proactive disclosure than reactive explanations. 5. Capital Efficiency Is Still King Burning capital for unproven impact is a red flag. Climate startups should show capital-light models, pilot traction, and lean validation. Whether you’re building a SaaS layer on decarbonization or digitizing energy audits, your path to scale must be repeatable. At Keev, we favor founders who can show early traction, especially in Tier-2 and Tier-3 markets, where sustainable infrastructure and cost-sensitivity intersect. Conclusion To raise capital for climate startups in today’s market, founders must navigate between underclaiming their value and overpromising outcomes. The key is measurable, validated, and investor-aligned impact that blends mission with real market traction. Greenwashing shortcuts may generate headlines, but they won’t secure sustainable funding or long-term trust. Founders serious about fundraising in the climate economy must structure their pitch around transparency, science, and strategy. Keev Capital is actively investing in climate-ready businesses across AI, sustainability, and consumer impact. To explore alignment or learn more about our diligence approach, connect with our team. We’re building the future of credible climate innovation, one startup at a time.
Closing the Gap: Why Keev Capital Is Betting on Women-Led Startups in India
Despite contributing over 20% of India’s GDP, women-led enterprises in India receive less than 2% of venture capital funding. As gender disparity in startup financing persists, 2025 offers a turning point. Forward-thinking VCs like Keev Capital are actively prioritizing investing in women-led startups in India, not as a diversity checkbox, but as a growth strategy rooted in long-term economic value. India is home to more than 15.7 million women-owned businesses, yet most operate as microenterprises with limited access to formal capital. The gap between potential and funding reality is not due to a lack of ambition but a lack of ecosystem support. Keev Capital believes that correcting this imbalance opens up untapped markets, underserved user bases, and resilient leadership models. To explore how Keev supports diverse leadership across fintech and consumer goods, take a look at our sector strategy designed to back underrepresented yet high-impact founders. Barriers Faced by Women Founders in India The challenges women founders face are multi-dimensional—structural, social, and institutional. Even as accelerators and pitch competitions increase visibility, actual deal flow remains limited. Keev’s thesis is rooted in challenging these patterns. We focus on thematic investments such as vertical AI or education innovation where women-led companies are bringing differentiated products to underserved markets. The Opportunity Landscape for Women-Led Startups Growing Consumer Segments Women are driving purchasing decisions across FMCG, health, and finance. Startups led by women founders often have sharper insights into female consumer behavior, enabling them to build sticky, trust-based relationships with target audiences. This aligns closely with Keev’s work in healthcare and consumer tech, where we back platforms serving India’s digitally connected, value-conscious population. Learn more about our thesis in healthtech innovation. Sustainable and Community-Driven Models Many women-led startups lead in inclusive employment, circular production, and community-first brand narratives. These values are not only ESG-positive but also drive user retention and brand equity. As climate-conscious businesses gain ground, Keev is channeling capital into environmental tech ventures where women are spearheading clean energy access, ethical sourcing, and water innovation. Rise of Tier-2 Women Founders India’s Tier-2 cities are now producing growth-stage women founders with deep domain expertise and grassroots traction. Sectors like D2C, agri-fintech, edtech, and health access are emerging as high-growth channels led by women. Keev actively supports this wave through equity investment, strategy support, and access to global co-investor networks. Real Progress and What Still Needs to Change According to the IFC, VCs that invested in women-led businesses reported 63% higher ROI than those that didn’t. India’s startup ecosystem is slowly catching up. Schemes like Stand Up India and WE Hub Telangana have created foundational momentum. Still, early-stage capital allocation to women-led startups remains below 5%. Keev Capital is committed to moving this number forward one term sheet at a time. As we fund founders solving for Bharat-scale challenges, we integrate gender-lens investing across due diligence, board governance, and portfolio advisory. Conclusion Investing in women-led startups in India is not only a moral imperative—it is a business advantage. These founders are building companies with sharper customer insights, leaner operations, and stronger mission alignment. Keev Capital recognizes that the next generation of unicorns and category leaders must be built with diversity at the core. To discuss partnership opportunities or learn how we evaluate women-led ventures across India’s growth markets, reach out to the Keev Capital team. We’re actively seeking founders and co-investors committed to changing the face of Indian entrepreneurship.
India’s Startup Surge Moves Beyond Metros: Keev Capital Backs the Tier-2 Boom
India’s startup ecosystem is no longer defined solely by Bengaluru, Mumbai, or Delhi. In 2025, India’s Tier-2 cities are becoming startup hubs in their own right, contributing significantly to innovation, job creation, and digital inclusion. As talent decentralizes and infrastructure matures, cities like Jaipur, Surat, Indore, and Coimbatore are transforming into entrepreneurial powerhouses, and Keev Capital is leaning in early. According to a report by Nasscom and Zinnov, Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities contributed nearly 50% of new startup registrations in India in 2023. With internet penetration at 67%, government-led digitization schemes like Startup India, and affordable digital infrastructure, these cities are creating fertile ground for high-growth ventures. Keev Capital is positioning ahead of the curve by backing founders and models that are built for Bharat, yet capable of global scale. Our approach spans verticals—from vertical AI to consumer goods—and targets value creation at the intersection of aspiration, access, and efficiency. Why Tier-2 Cities Are Leading the Next Wave There are several reasons India’s Tier-2 cities are now startup hubs: Keev’s thesis aligns with this shift, particularly in education innovation and healthcare delivery models that cater to semi-urban and rural users. Sectors Seeing Maximum Traction in Tier-2 Hubs Vernacular Fintech and Rural Credit Platforms Fintech innovation is booming in Tier-2 cities, especially in digital lending, UPI-based credit, and microinsurance tailored for underserved regions. Platforms that combine trust with tech—offering vernacular interfaces, assisted onboarding, and local agent networks—are scaling faster than metro-only models. At Keev, our fintech investment strategy prioritizes startups solving for inclusivity while ensuring regulatory alignment and strong unit economics. D2C Brands for Bharat Tier-2 users are driving the next wave of consumer spending. Affordable yet aspirational D2C brands in beauty, apparel, health snacks, and electronics are winning loyalty in these markets. Founders building from within Tier-2 cities often bring deeper cultural resonance and community-based distribution strategies. Keev Capital actively supports new-age consumer goods brands designed for India’s 400 million middle-income earners outside metro zones. Clean-Tech for Localized Infrastructure Decentralized environmental tech, like solar microgrids, water purification startups, and waste management platforms, is seeing early adoption in Tier-2 cities with unreliable civic infrastructure. Solutions that balance impact with profitability align with Keev’s interest in climate innovation. These models are also excellent testbeds for climate tech scaling across South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. Vertical AI for Tier-2 Use Cases India’s emerging cities present unique datasets, from agro-patterns to regional dialects, that are ideal for domain-specific AI applications. Startups using AI to automate agriculture, logistics, or regional healthcare workflows are finding willing users and sticky retention in Tier-2 markets. To understand how we support such solutions, explore our insights on vertical AI investments. How Keev Capital Is Investing Ahead of the Curve Keev’s early-stage strategy is shaped by three convictions: We focus on backing companies that are solving for India’s 500 million underserved users, leveraging digital rails, vernacular UX, and offline+online hybrids. Our portfolio founders in Tier-2 cities are innovating across fintech, edtech, healthtech, and climate tech with speed and capital efficiency. We support them with deep sector knowledge, capital structuring, and scaling playbooks tailored to emerging markets. Conclusion The future of Indian innovation is being written beyond the metro skylines. India’s Tier-2 cities are startup hubs with deep entrepreneurial talent, cost advantages, and culturally attuned problem-solving. Keev Capital is investing ahead of the curve, supporting companies built from the grassroots up, companies that don’t just serve Bharat, but lead it. To explore collaboration, investment alignment, or our founder support network in Tier-2 India, connect with Keev Capital here. We are actively sourcing startups and partners who believe the next unicorns will rise from India’s most underestimated cities.
2025: The Tipping Point for Climate-Driven Supply Chain Innovation
In 2025, global supply chains will face a reckoning, not from trade wars or inflation, but from climate change. Rising temperatures, extreme weather, and resource volatility are no longer distant threats, they’re disrupting logistics today. That’s why climate-driven supply chain innovation is no longer optional. It’s a necessity. For founders and investors alike, 2025 is emerging as the year where climate resilience and operational intelligence converge to rewrite the rules of global commerce. At Keev Capital, we see this shift not just as a risk to mitigate, but as a transformative opportunity. By backing startups that combine environmental intelligence with automation, we are positioning for impact where supply chains meet sustainability. For those exploring innovation across carbon-aware logistics and clean-tech manufacturing, our focus on environmental technology outlines how we back sector-defining ventures. Why 2025 Is the Climate Inflection Point According to the CDP Supply Chain Report, over $1.26 trillion in revenue is at risk across global suppliers due to environmental disruptions. The World Economic Forum has also flagged climate-related supply interruptions as a top risk for 2025 and beyond. Governments are responding. From India’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism pilots to the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), regulatory tailwinds are aligning with commercial imperatives. Companies must now track, disclose, and reduce their carbon footprint across their entire supply chain, not just within their facilities. This creates new market demand for predictive analytics, smart inventory tools, decentralized sourcing, and AI-powered logistics, all of which Keev Capital actively tracks through our investments in vertical AI systems. How Technology Is Reinventing Supply Chain Resilience Real-Time Carbon Intelligence Platforms offering carbon visibility tools for logistics and procurement are helping businesses choose suppliers based on emissions data, not just cost. These platforms often integrate with ERPs and use AI to predict risk hotspots, making carbon tracking a core operational metric. Startups in this space are beginning to intersect with Keev’s broader interest in fintech innovation, especially where ESG compliance ties to green financing and trade credit structures. Localized Manufacturing and Circular Inputs As climate instability makes long-distance sourcing riskier, decentralized and localized supply models are gaining traction. From 3D printing to bio-based packaging materials, innovation in climate-smart manufacturing is reshaping the structure of supply networks. For brands in consumer goods, this means rethinking everything from raw material sources to fulfillment channels. Companies that align resilience with sustainability will lead the next wave of product innovation. AI-Powered Demand Forecasting Erratic weather and geopolitical events mean traditional forecasting models fall short. AI systems that analyze everything from satellite data to macroeconomic shifts are proving vital. These solutions are especially impactful in food and pharma supply chains—key verticals connected to Keev’s work in healthcare and sustainability tech. Climate-Aware Education and Talent Development As new technology floods the logistics sector, the skills gap widens. That’s why there’s a rising demand for platforms offering climate-focused supply chain education, credentialing, and upskilling programs. This fits Keev’s thesis on edtech as a foundation for enabling the green workforce of the future. From Compliance to Competitive Advantage In 2025, climate adaptation will no longer be a compliance burden; it will be a competitive differentiator. Companies that build supply chains for volatility, transparency, and circularity will outperform peers tied to outdated linear models. Investors who identify and scale these enablers early will own the infrastructure of tomorrow’s commerce. The climate-driven supply chain innovation wave isn’t coming, it’s already here. Keev Capital is focused on backing the software, hardware, and data platforms that will drive this transformation. To explore how your startup or fund can partner with Keev to accelerate this transition, connect with our investment team. We are actively sourcing high-impact solutions across vertical AI, environmental tech, and global resilience infrastructure.