MS Dhoni To Become A Shareholder In Drone Startup Garuda Aerospace The investment is part of a bridge round, ahead of $30 million Series A round

By Teena Jose

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

You're reading Entrepreneur India, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media.

Company handout

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Former Indian men's cricket team captain, has been roped into be the brand ambassador and shareholder in Garuda Aerospace, a drone-as-a-service provider. The investment is part of a bridge round, ahead of $30 million Series A round.

"I am happy to be a part of Garuda Aerospace and look forward to witness their growth story with the unique drone solutions they have to offer," said Dhoni while speaking about this association.

"I've always been an ardent admirer of Mahi bhai and to have him as a part of Garuda aerospace family is honestly a dream come true. He has seen what we are trying to achieve and completely believes in our vision. We couldn't have asked for a better ambassador and partner," said Agniswar Jayaprakash, founder and CEO, Garuda Aerospace, in a statement.

"We are closing our $30 million Series A round by the end of July, which will brings our company to a total estimation of $250 million. Since our prime minister inaugurated Drone Mahotsav, we have been receiving a lot of interest. We are on the path to become the India's first drone unicorn startup," added Jayaprakash in a news statement.

Garuda aerospace recently announced its plans to support agriculture and working on a model to sell drones to village entrepreneurs or pesticides and fertilizers retailers. The company claimed that it deploys 300 drones and 500 pilots across 26 cities. It is also among the four drone startups that had been selected by online food delivery service Swiggy for the supply of its grocery service Instamart.

Teena Jose

News Desk Reporter with Entrepreneur India

Teena is a post graduate in financial journalism. She has an avid interest in content creation, digital media and fashion.
Side Hustle

How to Build Endless Passive Income With This Simple Online Hustle

Autopilot stores aren't just income streams. They are passports to freedom, flexibility and finally working and living on your own terms.

Business Ideas

70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2025.

Business News

ChatGPT's New Update Can Create PowerPoint Presentations and Excel Spreadsheets for You

The new AI agent can generate Google Sheets and slide decks, making it a powerful new office tool.

News and Trends

Reliance Retail Launches FMCG Brand 'Independence' In Gujarat

Independence includes diverse categories such as staples, processed foods, beverages, among other daily essentials

News and Trends

Aavishkaar Foundation and Next Bharat Ventures Join Hands to Empower Grassroots Entrepreneurs

The initiative aims to develop a strong pipeline of ventures that address local challenges in sectors such as agriculture, rural supply chains, financial inclusion, and waste management.

News and Trends

Infosys Foundation Launches Springboard Livelihood Program to Support 5 Lakh Job Seekers by 2030

Through this programme, both graduates and undergraduates will receive training tailored to employment across STEM and non-STEM sectors.