Ratan Tata Birthday Special: From Ola to Lenskart and FirstCry, a Look at Visionary Industrialist's Investments That Turned Into Unicorns
Late Ratan Tata, chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, continues to significantly influence and fuel India's startup ecosystem through his strategic investments and invaluable mentorship. On his birthday today, we take a look at some of his investments in companies such as Ola, Lenskart and FirstCry, which have turned the startups into unicorns today.
Mumbai, December 28: Veteran industrialist late Ratan Tata, the chairman emeritus of Tata Group and Tata Sons, continues to remain a formidable and active force in India's dynamic startup ecosystem. He had consistently channelled his vast experience and capital into promising new ventures. Shifting his formidable influence from traditional conglomerates to emerging tech and consumer-focused companies, Tata's strategic investments and invaluable mentorship are widely credited with significantly bolstering a new generation of Indian unicorn companies, solidifying his enduring legacy as a nation-builder and an astute visionary. On Ratan Tata's 88th birthday today, we take a look at the list of companies he invested in and how his backing led startups to become unicorns.
Ratan Tata's Journey From Industrial Giant to Startup Champion
Following his retirement as chairman of Tata Sons in 2012, Ratan Tata embarked on a new chapter as an active angel investor and mentor. This transition marked a significant shift from leading one of India's largest and most diversified conglomerates to nurturing nascent businesses, demonstrating his keen foresight into the future of India's economy. His personal investment portfolio now boasts stakes in over two dozen startups, many of which have gone on to achieve significant valuations. Ratan Tata Featured in Republic Day Parade 2025: Jharkhand Tableau Includes Bust of Late Industrialist To Pay Tributes to Him (See Photos and Videos).
A Distinct Investment Philosophy
Tata's approach to investing was characterised by more than just financial backing. He often prioritised companies with strong ethical foundations, innovative solutions to real-world problems, and visionary leadership. His investments spanned diverse sectors, including e-commerce, fintech, healthcare, and sustainable technology, reflecting a broad interest in areas poised for substantial growth and societal impact. This selective yet impactful strategy distinguishes his involvement from traditional venture capital firms.
From Ola to Lenskart and FirstCry, Companies Ratan Tata Invested In
Ratan Tata invested in many companies when several others were hesitant to put their money into them. He not only played a significant role in shaping the country's startup ecosystem, but also his backing led several companies to become unicorns. Notably, considered himself an "accidental investor". He has invested in companies such as Snapdeal, Ola, Upstox, Lenskart, CarDekho, FirstCry, Paytm, and Bluestone, among others. It is reported that he had invested in over 50 startups in India and internationally.
Impact on India's Unicorn Landscape
The backing of a figure as respected as Ratan Tata often provided an immediate boost in credibility and visibility for nascent companies. This "Tata touch" attracted further investment, top talent, and customer trust, accelerating a startup's journey towards achieving unicorn status – a valuation of USD 1 billion or more. Several Indian startups have publicly acknowledged Ratan Tata's pivotal role in their early growth phases and subsequent success, underscoring his influence in shaping the country's competitive startup arena. Ratan Tata Quotes: List of Top 10 Inspirational Sayings by the Legendary Industrialist on Leadership, Life and Success.
Beyond Capital: Mentorship and Credibility
While financial investment is crucial, the non-monetary value Ratan Tata brought to the table was deemed equally, if not more, significant. His decades of experience navigating complex business environments, understanding consumer behaviour, and building global brands offered startups unparalleled strategic guidance. Young founders frequently lauded Ratan Tata's ability to provide clear direction, ethical perspectives, and a long-term vision, proving invaluable in a fast-paced and often volatile startup world. His presence on advisory boards or as a mentor lent immense credibility, opening doors and fostering partnerships for startups which otherwise might have been inaccessible.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 28, 2025 09:10 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).