Empowering Social Enterprises: A Conversation with Angel Investor Nagaraja Prakasam
Meet Nagaraja Prakasam, an angel investor, entrepreneur, and now, an author with his debut book “Back to Bharat: In Search of a Sustainable Future.” In this exclusive interview, he shares insights into his journey, investment philosophy, and commitment to empowering social enterprises.
Naga the Farmer: A Hands-On Investor
Nagaraja Prakasam is not your typical investor. With a colorful handloom shirt and an overcoat that sports his name, Naga, he’s a walking endorsement for social enterprises like GoCoop, a marketplace for Indian handlooms and crafts. He’s known for his hands-on approach, seeking out startups that others may overlook.
Investing in the Unconventional
Nagaraja’s investment portfolio includes startups that defy convention. Take Uniphore, for example, which was initially passed over by numerous investors. Under Nagaraja’s guidance, it evolved into one of the world’s largest AI-native companies, earning unicorn status.
Back to Bharat: A Journey of Rediscovery
Nagaraja’s book, “Back to Bharat: In Search of a Sustainable Future,” offers a compelling narrative of his journey across India. It all began with a visit to Kappad in Kerala, where Vasco da Gama first landed in India. Inspired by the profound impact of this historical event, Nagaraja embarked on a mission to rediscover his country.
Exploring Sustainable Solutions
As a technologist, Nagaraja set out to find sustainable solutions to local challenges. His book documents his encounters with Indian social entrepreneurs who are pioneering change in their communities. These innovators employ technology in sustainable ways to address critical issues.
Traversing India for Insights
Nagaraja’s quest took him to all corners of India, spanning 28 states and Union Territories. He traversed remote regions, relying on trains, buses, and even his own two feet to reach rural innovators. His goal: to understand their challenges, delve into their problem statements, and witness firsthand the sustainable solutions they’ve implemented.
FAQs About Nagaraja Prakasam and His Book
Q1: Who is Nagaraja Prakasam?
Nagaraja Prakasam is an angel investor, entrepreneur, and author of “Back to Bharat: In Search of a Sustainable Future.”
Q2: What inspired Nagaraja to write his book?
Nagaraja’s book was inspired by a visit to Kappad in Kerala, where he contemplated the impact of historical events and embarked on a journey to rediscover India.
Q3: How does Nagaraja support social enterprises?
Nagaraja is known for his hands-on approach to investing in startups, particularly those that focus on sustainability and unconventional solutions.
Q4: What is the focus of “Back to Bharat: In Search of a Sustainable Future”?
The book explores Nagaraja’s journey across India, where he meets social entrepreneurs and documents their sustainable solutions to local challenges.
Q5: Where can one find Nagaraja Prakasam’s book?
Nagaraja’s book, “Back to Bharat,” is available in bookstores and online retailers.
