Shikhar Dhawan venture capital (VC) firm, Yashaa Global Capital, has officially set up operations in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) after securing the Financial Services Permission (FSP) from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA). The firm, previously known as Da One Global Ventures, plans to raise $75 million for its maiden fund, focusing on early to growth-stage startups in the sports tech sector. Yashaa Global Capital aims to deploy $1 million to $5 million per startup within the next 45-60 days, with 30% of investments allocated to Indian startups. The fund will target startups leveraging technology, data analytics, and fan engagement innovations, spanning sports tech, fitness, esports, and media platforms. With the global sports industry rapidly institutionalizing, Yashaa Global Capital seeks to fill a major gap in Asia’s venture capital landscape.
1. Introduction to Shikhar Dhawan VC Firm
Shikhar Dhawan VC firm, Yashaa Global Capital, is a sports-focused venture capital fund aiming to revolutionize sports investments in Asia. The firm recently secured the Financial Services Permission (FSP) from ADGM, enabling it to establish a $75 million fund for investments in sports tech startups. With a strategic approach and strong financial backing, Yashaa Global Capital is set to make a significant impact in the sports business ecosystem.
2. Founders and Background
Founded by Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan, along with Mohammed Sirajuddin, Arif Padaria, and Dr. Victor Tay, Yashaa Global Capital brings together expertise in sports, finance, and venture capital. Dhawan’s experience in international cricket shapes his investment philosophy, focusing on long-term vision, strategic decision-making, and adaptability.
3. Business Model and Investment Strategy
3.1 Target Market
- The fund will invest in early to growth-stage startups.
- Focus areas include sports tech, fitness, esports, and media platforms enhancing the sports ecosystem.
- The firm will allocate 30% of its investments to Indian startups, with the rest targeting the broader Asian market.
3.2 Funding and Revenue Model
- The first close will involve funding from family offices and ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs).
- Institutional investors will be onboarded for the second and third closes.
- Investments will range from $1 million to $5 million per startup, with returns expected through equity appreciation and strategic exits.
4. Market Potential and Trends
4.1 Growth of Sports Tech in India and Asia
- The Indian sports tech market is projected to grow 85% in the next four years, reaching INR 49,500 crore.
- While Western venture capital firms have actively invested in sports businesses, Asia lacks dedicated sports-focused VC firms.
4.2 Institutionalization of Sports Investments
- The global sports industry generates over a trillion dollars annually.
- Equity investments in the sector have significantly increased over the past decade.
5. Yashaa Global Capital’s Future Plans
5.1 Short-Term Goals
- Invest in high-growth startups with strong exit potential.
- Deploy initial investments within 45-60 days.
5.2 Long-Term Vision
- Successfully execute Fund I and subsequently launch a larger Fund II.
- Establish startup accelerators across multiple regions within the next two to three years.
- Build an extensive sports-focused investment ecosystem in Asia.
6. Learning for Startups and Entrepreneurs
6.1 Importance of Niche Venture Capital
- Specialized VC firms, like Yashaa Global Capital, fill gaps in underfunded industries.
- Entrepreneurs should align with investors who understand their industry-specific challenges and opportunities.
6.2 Strategic Expansion for Startups
- Sports tech startups should leverage data analytics, AI, and fan engagement technologies to gain competitive advantages.
- Startups must explore international markets for expansion, as Yashaa Global Capital targets both Asia and select Western companies looking to enter the Asian market.
6.3 Investment Readiness
- Early-stage startups should focus on strong business models and proven traction to attract venture funding.
- Founders need to develop long-term visions and scalable business strategies to secure large investments.
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