As India experiences a surge in AI startups, early-stage investors are adapting to address the critical hurdle of access to capital for founders. Antler India is at the forefront, rapidly accelerating the growth of the next generation of AI startups through focused initiatives and substantial investments.

Antler India is strategically positioned to support the burgeoning AI ecosystem, being recognized as the most active AI investor globally and the leading backer of AI startups in India. The firm's growing portfolio showcases companies that are not only transforming industries but also reshaping the future with innovative AI solutions.

To further bolster the AI landscape in India, Antler has launched the AI Residency program, specifically designed to support the next wave of AI-first companies emerging from the region. This intensive program is tailored for ambitious AI founders and offers several key benefits:

• Fast-Track Funding: Expedited investment decisions are made within 4-6 weeks, providing early-stage startups with the necessary capital to scale quickly.
• Significant Investment: Antler commits up to approximately $470,000 (INR 4 crores) per startup, which includes $235,000 for 9% equity and an additional $235,000 via an uncapped SAFE with MFN.
• Extensive Perks: Startups gain access to over $1 million in AI-relevant perks and up to $4 million in total perks, offering valuable resources and support.

The AI Residency program is designed for founding teams at the pre-launch, pre-product, or pre-revenue stage, focusing on those building at the cutting edge of AI, from infrastructure to applied AI products. In contrast, Antler's General Track supports founders in other sectors beyond AI, such as consumer tech, fintech, health, and deep tech.

Antler's commitment extends beyond initial funding. The firm actively supports its portfolio companies through subsequent stages, with reserves via Antler Elevate for follow-on investments up to Series C, potentially reaching $30 million. A prime example is Airalo, where Antler made an initial investment of $125,000 and continued support through its journey to becoming a unicorn, with a total investment of $20 million.

In 2024, Antler invested in 30 startups in India through its maiden $75 million India fund, expanding its India portfolio to 80 ventures across various sectors, including AI. This investment pace underscores the quality of founders emerging from India and the conviction that the next wave of global technology companies will originate from the country.

Antler's portfolio includes notable AI-driven startups such as Cautio, which offers AI-powered dashcam solutions, and HireBound, revolutionizing recruitment through AI. Infer.so is developing voice bots for the insurance and lending industries, while Storefox.ai enhances offline retail intelligence.

With a presence in 30 cities globally, including Bengaluru, Antler is dedicated to empowering startups that address real-world challenges through innovative solutions. The firm's next Residency cohort in India is set to begin in January 2026, providing ambitious founders with another opportunity to transform their ideas into scalable businesses. Antler aims to support over 6,000 startups by 2030, solidifying its role as a key driver of the global startup ecosystem.