Soma Fellows

• Ambitious founders building high-potential startups, seeking early backing from Soma.

About this scheme

Soma Fellows is a program initiated by Soma, an investment firm with a longstanding history of building and investing in startups. Soma, alongside the Ranadive family, has dedicated decades to fostering brilliant individuals and companies, aiming to be a primary resource for founders throughout their entrepreneurial journey. The firm is well-known for its global network and its impressive track record, having played a key role in seeding over 30 unicorn companies across various technology sectors. This extensive experience means Soma Fellows offers not just capital, but also deep strategic guidance derived from years of direct involvement in startup growth and investment.

The program provides substantial, uncapped funding for startups. Initial investments can reach up to Rs. 180,000,000 (equivalent to $2 million), offering significant capital for early-stage development and market entry. Companies that demonstrate strong traction and growth potential can qualify for additional follow-on funding, which has the potential to exceed Rs. 900,000,000 (equivalent to $10 million). This structured funding approach supports startups from initial seed through significant scaling phases. This financial backing is enhanced by a comprehensive suite of support services specifically designed to accelerate the growth and market penetration of selected startups, helping them navigate complex challenges and achieve their milestones faster.

Participants in Soma Fellows gain access to a range of practical support mechanisms. This includes a 24/7 concierge service, offering continuous assistance for various operational needs, and access to premium office spaces located in major innovation hubs, specifically San Francisco or New York. The program actively facilitates high-level customer introductions, connecting founders directly with executives from Fortune 500 companies, thereby creating valuable opportunities for business development and market expansion. Furthermore, Soma Fellows offers extensive networking opportunities, including exclusive weekly dinners and events that allow interaction with over 30 unicorn founders from Soma's broad portfolio. These sessions provide direct access to experienced entrepreneurs and potential collaborators. Founders also benefit from personalized one-on-one sessions with Aneel Ranadive and the Soma team, receiving tailored advice and strategic insights. Additional benefits include credits for advanced AI platforms like OpenAI/Anthropic and organized team retreats, fostering both innovation and team cohesion.

Benefits & funding

• Substantial uncapped funding, initially up to Rs.
• 180,000,000 with potential follow-on exceeding Rs.
• Benefits include extensive mentorship, networking with 30+ unicorn founders, high-level customer introductions to Fortune 500s, premium office space in San Francisco/New York, 24/7 concierge, AI platform credits (OpenAI/Anthropic), and team retreats.
• Personalized strategic guidance is also provided.

How the application process works

The journey below is informational, compiled from the official program guidelines. Applications are submitted directly with Soma, in your own name.

1. 1

   Applications are reviewed by the Soma team for innovation quality, market potential, and founder strength.

2. 2

   Shortlisted founders engage in direct conversations with Aneel Ranadive and the Soma team before final investment decisions are made.

3. 3

   Selected fellows receive up to $2 million in initial investment with potential for follow-on funding exceeding $10 million.

Frequently asked questions