ABOUT US

Fashion Entrepreneur Fund

The Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF) is a venture studio born from a powerful purpose- to support the fashion industry's creators, visionaries, and unsung heroes. Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, when traditional support systems left fashion behind, FEF emerged as a movement to empower talent by offering real growth pathways, employment, and long-term impact. By blending creativity with business strategy, FEF is building an ecosystem where entrepreneurs can scale, thrive, and lead the next wave of India’s fashion economy.

20K+
REGISTRATIONS RECEIVED
50+
COMPANIES SHORTLISTED
30+
STARTUPS SELECTED

HOW WE BUILD BRANDS?

Establishing a presence in the fashion industry requires more than just investment; it takes the right support and a stage to showcase your ideas. That’s why we provide access to exclusive networking opportunities, industry events, and key stakeholders to help emerging talent thrive.

Investment

We provide financial support to fashion entrepreneurs. You can apply for investment based on your business plan and potential. Additionally, we offer ongoing access to further investment to help businesses scale and expand for long-term success.

Mentorship

We understand the value of mentorship in shaping your venture’s success. Through our platform, you’ll be paired with industry experts who provide valuable insights, strategic advice, and guidance to help you navigate challenges.

Growth Consulting

We offer growth consulting services to help your business reach its full potential. Our experts work with you to refine your strategies, increase your market presence, and support sustainable growth in a competitive landscape.

INVESTORS | MENTORS | PROMOTERS

An ecosystem built by industry veterans, visionary investors, and brand-builders who’ve done it before, and are ready to do it again.

Sahil Arora

Investor & Mentor

Sahil Arora
Investor & Mentor

At 31, Mr. Sahil Arora is redefining what it means to carry forward a legacy. As the third-generation entrepreneur at Kay International, a respected name in air blowers and vacuum systems, he brings a bold new perspective—rooted in tradition, yet driven by transformation.

Before stepping into the business, his journey took an unconventional path. He began his career as an assistant director in the film and media industry, working on commercial shoots and short films. There, he honed a sharp creative eye, learned to perform under pressure, and developed a deep appreciation for storytelling—all of which would later prove invaluable in the world of industrial manufacturing.

Today, Mr. Arora applies those same principles—clarity, discipline, and vision—to Kay International. He is focused on modernizing the business, expanding into new markets, and strengthening the brand’s global footprint without compromising its legacy of quality and trust.

Outside the boardroom, he is a passionate traveler, constantly exploring new cultures, technologies, and business ideas. His global outlook shapes his vision for Kay—not just as a machinery manufacturer, but as a forward-looking, internationally respected industrial partner.

Mr. Sahil Arora’s story is not just about continuing a family legacy. It’s about elevating it—reimagining what’s possible and leading it into the future with creativity, confidence, and a clear sense of purpose.

Manju Yagnik

Director

Manju Yagnik
Director

Vice Chairperson of Nahar Group and Senior Vice President of NAREDCO Maharashtra, Ms Manju Yagnik, is one of the most influential voices in Indian real estate today. With over three decades of experience, she has been instrumental in shaping award-winning townships like Amrit Shakti, bringing a visionary approach to integrated urban living.

At Nahar Group, she has led large-scale developments that blend residential, retail, healthcare, education, and wellness infrastructure, transforming the landscape of Mumbai’s suburban housing. Her work extends beyond business into strategic policy advocacy and women’s empowerment within the industry.

A recipient of numerous accolades, including Construction Woman of the Year and Most Admired Business Leader, Ms Yagnik is known for her people-first mindset, execution excellence, and commitment to sustainable development.

Outside the boardroom, she’s a strong supporter of social initiatives—from promoting girl child education to leading COVID-19 support efforts—and continues to inspire as a multifaceted leader, sportsperson, and changemaker.

Sonali Dugar

Director

Sonali Dugar
Director

A dynamic leader and passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, MS Sonali Dugar serves as the Executive Director of Dugar Finance & Investments Ltd., an RBI-registered Non-Banking Financial Company. With a strong presence in finance and real estate, she also holds a directorial role at Good Worth Properties Pvt. Ltd.

She has played a pivotal role in community leadership, having served as the National Chief Secretary of JITO Ladies Wing, where she worked to amplify the voice and agency of women across the Jain community. As a first-generation entrepreneur, she also co-owns the Chennai franchise of the award-winning progressive Indian restaurant, SpiceKlub, bringing her business acumen into the culinary space.

With a blend of strategic vision, community focus, and entrepreneurial drive, Ms Dugar continues to inspire as a new-generation businesswoman shaping both industry and impact.

Rajesh Chandan

Investor & Promoter

Rajesh Chandan
Investor & Promoter

Mr Rajesh Chandan is a first-generation entrepreneur and technology enthusiast, known for his visionary leadership and passion for innovation. He is the Chairman of JITO Chennai and former APEX National Chairman of JITO Business Network (JBN), where he has inspired entrepreneurs nationwide. On the global front, he serves as Chairman of the Latin American & Caribbean Trade Council, representing trade interests across 33 countries, and is a Board Member of the Traders Welfare Board of India, appointed by Hon. Minister Piyush Goyal.

A TEDx speaker and award-winning entrepreneur, Mr Chandan actively invests in startups and growth ventures, including IndiaShoppe, Grohair, and Pappaya Education. He is also committed to philanthropy through his work with Shraman Arogyam, JATF, RYA Cosmo, and the Ascent Foundation.

Karan Johar

Investor & Mentor

Karan Johar
Investor & Mentor

Mr Karan Johar is a celebrated filmmaker, producer, entrepreneur, and cultural icon who has significantly shaped modern Indian entertainment. As the Founder and Director of Dharma Productions, he has created some of the most successful and influential films in Bollywood, blending commercial appeal with cultural relevance and talk show phenomenon Koffee with Karan. Under his leadership, Dharma has evolved into a multi-dimensional studio with several verticals, including Dharmatic Entertainment, Dharma 2.0 & Dharma Cornerstone Agency (DCA). 

His entrepreneurial spirit goes beyond cinema. He is the mind behind ventures like Tyaani Jewellery, a fine jewellery brand, and Neuma, a luxury restaurant in Mumbai. He has also invested in tech and consumer brands such as Nothing, Kofluence, and the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund, showing his eye for innovation and influence in emerging markets.

Gaurav Dalmia

Investor & Mentor

Gaurav Dalmia
Investor & Mentor

Chairman of Dalmia Group Holdings and founder of Landmark Holdings, Mr  Gaurav Dalmia is a strategic investor with a diversified portfolio spanning private equity, real estate, public markets, structured debt, and fixed income. He is an early investor in True North (with ~ $3.5 billion AUM) and co-founder of GTI, which focuses on India-centric investments. 

An accomplished alumnus of Salford University (BSc Computer Science) and Columbia Business School (MBA, Beta Gamma Sigma), Mr Dalmia was recognized as a “Global Leader for Tomorrow” by the World Economic Forum in 2000.

Beyond business, he contributes to public policy and education reform, serving on the boards of Brookings India and the Institute for New Economic Thinking (New York), and as Chairman of Room to Read India’s Advisory Board.

Saloni Jain

Investor & Promoter

Saloni Jain
Investor & Promoter

Founder of Vinayak Jewels Foundation and Director at Vinayak Products Pvt. Ltd. & Innovate Hub Prime Estate LLP, Saloni Jain is a trailblazer in India’s luxury jewellery space. With over two decades of leadership, she has helped shape Vinayak Jewels into one of the country’s fastest-growing manufacturers, crafting timeless pieces in Jaipur for a global clientele.

Blending entrepreneurial heritage with formal business training, Ms Jain brings a unique vision rooted in craftsmanship, innovation, and excellence.

Beyond business, she is a committed changemaker. As Chairperson of JITO Jaipur, she has driven initiatives in education and women’s empowerment, impacting 400+ girls through scholarships and skill development. Through her foundation, she partners with Akshaya Patra, organizes health camps for artisans, and engages civic leaders to amplify social impact.

Her efforts have earned her the Nari Gaurav Samman, recognizing her as a powerful force for progress, compassion, and community upliftment.

Vagish Pathak

Chairman

Vagish Pathak
Chairman

A passionate philanthropist, entrepreneur, and institution builder, Mr Vagish Pathak serves as the Chairperson of the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF). With a deep commitment to nurturing innovation and creative talent, he plays a pivotal role in shaping FEF as India’s foremost platform supporting fashion-led startups.

Mr Pathak’s vision blends business insight with social impact. He is widely known for backing initiatives that foster entrepreneurship, empower youth, and drive meaningful change across industries. His ability to bring together investors, changemakers, and emerging designers has helped position FEF at the intersection of creativity and commerce. Deeply involved in community upliftment, Mr Pathak has supported multiple philanthropic efforts focused on education, employment, and wellness.

Jitendra Lalwani

Promoter

Jitendra Lalwani
Promoter

Mr. Jitendra Lalwani is a respected Indian industrialist and a driving force behind two thriving business empires, the Vimal Group of Companies, a leading name in specialty chemical distribution, and the Lalwani Group, a prominent real estate and diversified investment group based in Pune. 

With a legacy of over three decades, Mr. Lalwani has transformed the Lalwani Group into a multi-sector powerhouse with significant interests in real estate, hospitality, healthcare, and mining. His ventures include ownership of premium hotels, hospitals, mining operations, and a vast portfolio of real estate projects that have shaped Pune’s skyline and contributed to urban development across Maharashtra.

Mr. Lalwani’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by strategic foresight, operational excellence, and a people-centric approach. His business philosophy blends innovation with impact, investing not just in sectors, but in communities, growth ecosystems, and long-term value creation.

Vinod Dugar

Promoter

Vinod Dugar
Promoter

Co‑Promoter and Director of RDB Group, Mr Vinod Dugar, leads a diversified conglomerate with core strengths in real estate, infrastructure, packaging, power transmission, automobiles, education, healthcare, and logistics. Since launching the real estate arm in the 1990s, he transitioned to a professional leadership model around 2012 and has since invested in 40+ startups, emerging as a key entrepreneur and angel investor.

An active philanthropist and holder of the title Honorary Consul of the Republic of Malawi in Kolkata, Mr. Dugar champions education and healthcare via institutions like Aryans School, Stem World School, and Kusum Devi Sunderlal Dugar Jain Dental College & Hospital. He also organizes blood donation and health camps. He was appointed Chairman of the JITO Administrative Training Foundation (JATF) in September 2022, guiding youth development and civil-service readiness initiatives 

His passion for sports and culture is reflected in launching Inter Kashi FC (with Atletico de Madrid ties), aiming to foster grassroots football talent in Uttar Pradesh.

Sanjay Nigam

Founder

Sanjay Nigam
Founder

Mr Sanjay Nigam is a dynamic Indian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and industry leader with over two decades of experience in fashion and business. His ventures span India, the UAE, Singapore, and Africa, where he has played a key role in shaping the fashion ecosystem.

He is the founder of Talent Factory, the Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF), and the prestigious FEF Global Fashion Awards (FEFGFA), all dedicated to promoting and supporting emerging talent in the fashion industry.

Beyond business, Mr. Nigam is deeply committed to social impact. He co-founded Nirvana, an orphanage for mentally challenged girls in Lucknow, and has collaborated with the Government of Madhya Pradesh to support the Chanderi weavers' community. A certified Life Coach with the International Coach Federation (ICF), he actively supports NGOs working in education and healthcare, with a focus on uplifting underprivileged communities.

Ravi Jaipuria

Investor & Promoter

Ravi Jaipuria
Investor & Promoter

Widely known as India’s “Cola King,” Mr Ravi Jaipuria is the Chairman of RJ Corp, and the visionary force behind two of India’s leading consumer-facing companies—Varun Beverages, one of the world’s largest PepsiCo bottlers, and Devyani International, the country’s largest franchisee for KFC, Pizza Hut, and Costa Coffee.

His portfolio also includes: Creambell, J-Mart – Retail operations under RJ Corp and investments in healthcare and education, including a stake in Medanta.

With a sharp business acumen, he has played a pivotal role in transforming RJ Corp into a diversified powerhouse with interests spanning beverages, food services, healthcare, retail, real estate, and education. Beyond business, he is actively involved in philanthropy, contributing to healthcare and education initiatives nationwide. His influence continues to shape India’s consumer landscape with a blend of vision, resilience, and consistent growth.

Akshay Kumar

Investor & Mentor

Akshay Kumar
Investor & Mentor

A global Indian icon, Mr Akshay Kumar is one of Bollywood’s most bankable superstars, with a career spanning over 150 films and multiple genres—from action to comedy to drama. Praised for his discipline and versatility, he was honored with the Padma Shri in 2009 and is celebrated for his commitment to fitness.

Off-screen, he is a sharp entrepreneur. His business portfolio spans health, wellness, content, and fitness. Key ventures include: GOQii Smart Healthcare, FAAYDE by Akshay, Cape of Good Films, WELL Versed, Maidaan, and SocialSwag.

A disciplined fitness advocate and a firm believer in made-in-India potential, he is also known for backing startups that align with wellness, social impact, and mass empowerment. His entrepreneurial work, much like his filmography, is driven by purpose, scale, and long-term impact.

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OUR TEAM

Our team is a dynamic group of industry experts, visionaries, and strategists dedicated to supporting and empowering entrepreneurs. Together, we bring a wealth of experience to help you build, scale, and succeed in the fashion industry.

Sanjay Nigam

Founder

Deepak Lamba

CEO

Puneet Malhotra

COO

Neha Munot

CFO

Ritesh Verma

Head of Enterprise Strategy

Jaspreet Kukreja

Head of Strategic Alliances

Ridhima Wahi

Head of Investment Banking
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OUR VALUES

Together, these values shape our mission to build, back, and scale the next generation of fashion ventures. They guide every decision we make and every founder we support.

L

Leadership

We lead the transformation of fashion entrepreneurship through innovation, investment, & community-building.

E

Empowerment

We empower emerging fashion founders with resources, mentorship, and platforms to thrive.

T

Transparency

We build trust through open communication, data-driven decisions, and ethical business practices.

'S

Sustainability

We’re building a future-ready fashion ecosystem rooted in ethics, impact, and responsible growth.

F

Founder First

Our ecosystem is designed to champion the founder’s journey from idea to IPO.

E

Excellence

We are committed to delivering excellence in everything we do, aiming for the highest standards.

F

Focus

We stay focused on what truly matters—our goals, our founders, and the impact we create.

I

Innovation

We embrace innovation to stay ahead, continuously improving processes and solutions.

T

Teamwork

We believe in the power of collaboration, working together to achieve shared success.

U

Unity

We celebrate diversity and inclusiveness, creating a unified culture rooted in trust and mutual respect.

P

Passion

We bring passion and energy into our work, driving us to go the extra mile every day.

LET’S
FEF
IT UP
L

Leadership

We lead the transformation of fashion entrepreneurship through innovation, investment, & community-building.

E

Empowerment

We empower emerging fashion founders with resources, mentorship, and platforms to thrive.

T

Transparency

We build trust through open communication, data-driven decisions, and ethical business practices.

'S

Sustainability

We’re building a future-ready fashion ecosystem rooted in ethics, impact, and responsible growth.

F

Founder First

Our ecosystem is designed to champion the founder’s journey from idea to IPO.

E

Excellence

We are committed to delivering excellence in everything we do, aiming for the highest standards.

F

Focus

We stay focused on what truly matters—our goals, our founders, and the impact we create.

I

Innovation

We embrace innovation to stay ahead, continuously improving processes and solutions.

T

Teamwork

We believe in the power of collaboration, working together to achieve shared success.

U

Unity

We celebrate diversity and inclusiveness, creating a unified culture rooted in trust and mutual respect.

P

Passion

We bring passion and energy into our work, driving us to go the extra mile every day.