• IIMA Ventures and Jaivel Aerospace launch a fund to back early-stage defence and aerospace startups
• The fund will invest up to $400,000 per startup, focusing on deeptech solutions like autonomy and advanced manufacturing
• Startups gain mentorship, development support, and access to Jaivel’s global manufacturing network

IIMA Ventures, the tech investment arm of IIM Ahmedabad, has teamed up with Jaivel Aerospace to create a new fund aimed at supporting early-stage startups in the defence and aerospace sectors. This fund will focus on startups developing cutting edge technologies in areas such as autonomy, advanced materials, manufacturing, and secure communication systems.

Each selected startup can receive up to $400,000 in pre-seed or seed funding. Along with capital, startups will get valuable mentorship, access to development facilities, and the advantage of Jaivel Aerospace’s extensive global manufacturing network.

Vipul Patel, partner at IIMA Ventures, said, “We are doubling down on aerospace and defence, focusing on early-stage companies with high potential. This fund will help us back innovators in the space with their first institutional investment”.

IIMA Ventures has a strong track record in the sector, having supported companies like Sagar Defence, ePlane, and Agnikul. The fund is set up with balance sheet capital from both partners and will grow as more corporates join the initiative.

Also Read: GalaxEye to Launch India's Most Advanced Private Satellite in 2026

Jaivel Aerospace, led by founder Vipul Vachhani, brings deep expertise in design, engineering, and manufacturing, providing startups with tools to accelerate their market entry.

This launch aligns with growing investor interest in India’s aerospace and defence space, driven by government initiatives and rising global demand.