For Atharva Purandare, the primary upside of investing in startups is having a front-row seat to watching the world change. The combination of an avid interest in all things technology, an analytical mind and a keen desire to work with smart and passionate people building for the future make him an ideal fit in the Lightbox investments team. His approach to investing is simple – get the small things right and the benefits will compound to deliver great returns.

An affinity for solving through numbers led him to pursue computer science at the University of Mumbai where he learned coding and computer architecture. The summer post-graduation took him to Stanford University where he focused on technology entrepreneurship. This was also when he immersed himself in Palo Alto’s vibrant venture capital and startup ecosystem and subsequently decided to pursue a career in venture capital with Lightbox.

At Lightbox, Atharva contributes to building investment theses for specific sectors through primary and secondary research, evaluates investment prospects, works on operational areas with portfolio companies and formulates exit strategies. In his evaluation of startups, he looks at factors such as whether the startup offers a unique experience, whether the business model aligns with market realities, the key drivers of the business and relevant metrics. He likes businesses in emerging sectors such as EVs and battery recycling, climate-tech, consumer social apps, retail and healthcare, and looks for business models designed to organise vast unorganised markets.

Outside of work, Atharva likes to explore the outdoors and has lately been enjoying finding new communities. “A ‘third space’ is important for us to thrive as humans,” he says. He hasn't tried it yet but he believes he could be a good teacher and loves the feeling of having taught someone a new concept in simple terms.