Nikhil Kamath, cofounder of Zerodha, has made a strategic investment in Vijay Subramaniam-led Collective Artists Network (CAN), a prominent talent management agency. This secondary transaction enables a significant return of over 5X for InMobi’s Glance, which had previously invested in Collective in 2021.
The financial specifics of the deal remain undisclosed. However, this investment marks a pivotal moment for both parties involved.
Based in Bengaluru, CAN offers a comprehensive suite of services including talent management, creator tech, production, creative strategy, influencer marketing, youth marketing, sports sponsorship, and consulting and media distribution.
Earlier in 2024, CAN collaborated with Kamath’s venture capital firm, Gruhas, to launch the Gruhas Collective Consumer Fund. This fund aims to nurture consumer-focused enterprises by providing financial backing, mentoring, operational support, marketing, and brand-building services.
“Investing in Collective’s vision feels like a natural progression. I’ve witnessed the company’s evolution over the last couple of years and I’ve known Vijay closely. I believe in his vision of transforming this space. We share a similar outlook towards the India story,” Kamath said in a statement.
Subramaniam added, “Nikhil and I have known each other for the past few years, and during this time, we’ve come to share the belief that India is moving toward the center of the world. Media and entertainment will play a significant role in the country’s growth story.”
This investment not only strengthens Kamath’s portfolio but also underscores the potential of India’s burgeoning media and entertainment sector.
