Expert Dojo, a Southern California-based early-stage venture capital firm, has launched a new $100 million global fund. The firm has set aside $15 million specifically for investments in Indian startups. The announcement was made during the Expert Dojo Investors Conclave 2025 in Bengaluru.
The firm aims to support 20 to 25 young companies in sectors such as SaaS, fintech, B2B, and artificial intelligence. Having previously invested in over 300 startups globally, we are now setting our sights on replicating that success with our India-focused fund,” said Brian Mac Mahon, Founder and Managing Partner of Expert Dojo. This fund connects global investors to India’s growth story.
For founders, we bring three things: capital, experience, and a network that opens doors.”
Under the new program, Indian founders can seek investments ranging from $50,000 to $1 million. They will also receive mentoring and access to the go-to-market network. Expert Dojo has already made investments in over 30 Indian startups, including Bhive, Cloudworx, and Doqfy.
The firm plans to commit another $30 million to Indian startups over the next two to three years, bringing its total planned exposure to $45 million. To facilitate this initiative, the firm has opened an office in Bengaluru.
Expert Dojo’s major Indian fund launch
Ashutosh Kumar Jha, General Partner for India, noted that the fund is designed to address gaps in cross-border capital, mentorship, and go-to-market strategy. India’s entrepreneurial talent pool is unmatched. However, challenges remain, especially in cross-border capital access, international mentorship, and go-to-market expansion.
This fund is structured to bridge these exact gaps,” Jha said. The fund will operate through a Category II AIF structure registered in India. This will enable Expert Dojo to act as a local investor and avoid compliance challenges typically faced by foreign investors.
“We’ve made close to 30 investments in India already, and globally, we’ve backed nearly 100 companies with Indian founders,” stated Mac Mahon during the launch event. While the $15 million fund is only the beginning, we see India becoming our biggest focus area.
Expert Dojo believes India’s strength lies in its deep talent pool. The firm has plans to significantly scale its presence in the country over the coming years.
“We’re not here to be the number one VC,” Mac Mahon said. “We’re here to be a great VC that helps Indian founders build world-class, lovable products.”
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