Rachit Poddar: A Visionary Entrepreneur with a Global Footprint

In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, few names shine as brightly as Rachit Poddar. At just 29 years old, Rachit has already established himself as a versatile entrepreneur, investor, and global connector. With a portfolio spanning over 80+ ventures and 5+ funds across 10+ sectors like EV, Fintech, Consumer, and Agritech, his journey is a remarkable story of ambition, resilience, and innovation.

Early Life and Education – Building a Strong Foundation

Rachit was born into a family with a rich business legacy, which naturally sparked his interest in entrepreneurship from a young age. He pursued his undergraduate studies in Business Management at the University of Wolverhampton in Mumbai, followed by Entrepreneurship Programs at S.P. Jain, Mumbai, and Summer School at the University of Oxford, U.K.
Later, he earned his MSc in Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Enterprise Development from the University of Westminster in London. Rachit also completed executive education in corporate finance at London Business School, further strengthening his financial and business skills. He has also pursued several short courses from esteemed institutions like Harvard Business School Online, IIM-Ahmedabad, and Draper University.

Entrepreneurial Ventures – A Diverse Portfolio

21by72 India’s Premier Startup Summit & International Investor Summit, UAE
Rachit Poddar’s flagship event, 21by72 Startup Summit, is one of India’s largest startup summits. Held annually in Surat for the past four years, it has grown into a landmark event attracting thousands of entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators. The summit provides a platform for startups to pitch their ideas, network with global investors, attend workshops, and learn from industry leaders.

The International Investor Summit has hosted two seasons in the UAE, at the Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi and DIFC Dubai respectively, attracting over 500+ elite investors. Over the years, 21by72 and the International Investor Summit have helped nurture and fund hundreds of startups, empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs. The summit has hosted many big names from Shark Tank India — Aman Gupta, Anupam Mittal, Ghazal Alagh, Azhar Iqbal — as well as prominent celebrities and influencers like Neha Dhupia, Vivek Oberoi, Raj Shamani, Parul Gulati, Saina Nehwal, Radhika Madan, Sonal Chauhan, Sarthak Ahuja, Ganesh Prasad, Arjun Vaidya, and veteran leaders like Dr. A. Velumani and Vijay Kedia.

IVY Growth Associates – Supporting Startups at Every Stage

As co-founder of IVY Growth Associates, Rachit invests in startups across industries to help them grow and scale. The firm operates as an angel network and venture capital platform, providing funding, mentorship, and strategic guidance. IVY Growth Associates has been instrumental in supporting startups from their early stages to becoming established businesses, creating a robust ecosystem that bridges the gap between entrepreneurs and investors. Rachit has also hosted 20+ events across India, Dubai, and London to promote the startup ecosystem. He has attended several prominent global startup summits as an investor, such as Web Summit (Portugal) and GITEX Dubai.

3 C’s & Co. Jewels – Blending Tradition with Innovation

Rachit is also behind 3 C’s & Co. Jewels, a lab-grown diamond jewellery brand that opened its first luxury boutique in Surat and plans to open stores across India and globally. The brand combines traditional craftsmanship with modern design.

Rachit Group – A Legacy of Excellence

The group has been a major player in the textile industry since 1992, producing a wide range of fabrics and designer Indian ethnic wear for women. Their products are sold across India and exported to several countries, catering to premium brands and establishing a reputation for quality and excellence.

Global Footprint – Connecting the World

Rachit’s entrepreneurial vision extends far beyond India. He has lived in cities like London, Dubai, Mumbai, and Bangalore, which allows him to build strong international networks. His ventures connect investors and startups across continents, helping facilitate partnerships, funding, and growth opportunities. Rachit’s global perspective has been a driving force behind his ability to identify trends, seize opportunities, and adapt business strategies for international markets.

Recognitions and Achievements

Despite his young age, Rachit Poddar has already received several accolades for his contributions to business and entrepreneurship. He has been recognized among India’s promising young entrepreneurs and has won awards celebrating his innovative approach and leadership. He has been a part of esteemed global organizations like Forbes Business Council, Corporate Connections, Dubai Young Professionals, Indian Venture & Alternate Capital Association, BNI, Institute of Directors London, TiE Global, Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce & Industry, JCI, and Della Leaders Club. He has also earned a Global Top Voice badge on LinkedIn and has built a collective social media following of 50,000+ followers. His story has inspired many aspiring entrepreneurs, proving that with vision, determination, and hard work, one can achieve global impact at a young age.

Philosophy and Vision – Inspiring a Generation

At the heart of Rachit’s work is a strong belief in innovation, collaboration, and learning. He envisions a world where entrepreneurs have the resources, knowledge, and networks to transform their ideas into impactful ventures. Through initiatives like Rachit Group, 21by72 Startup Summit, IVY Growth Associates, International Investor Summit, and 3 C’s & Co., Rachit is fostering an ecosystem that nurtures talent, drives innovation, and promotes sustainable growth. His work reflects a commitment not just to business success, but to creating meaningful opportunities for others.

Personal Life – Exploring the World Beyond Business

Rachit is also a passionate traveler. Having visited over 36 countries, he enjoys exploring diverse cultures, ideas, and perspectives. Traveling has broadened his worldview and influenced his approach to business, helping him think globally while acting locally. His lifestyle reflects a balance between professional ambitions and personal experiences, inspiring others to pursue their dreams while embracing life fully.

Future Plans – Expanding the Vision

Looking ahead, Rachit Poddar aims to scale his ventures even further. Plans include expanding 21by72 to international markets and increasing the support offered to startups through IVY Growth Associates. His goal is to continue building ventures that are not only profitable but also socially and economically impactful. Rachit’s journey demonstrates that entrepreneurship is not just about personal success but about empowering communities and shaping the future.

Conclusion

Rachit Poddar’s story is a testament to ambition, innovation, and global impact. From his roots in Surat to building a presence across continents, he embodies the spirit of modern entrepreneurship. Through his ventures and vision, Rachit is inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs to dream big, act boldly, and make a difference in the world. His journey shows that with hard work, dedication, and a clear vision, anything is possible.

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