Nikhil Kamath Backs Collective Artists Network in Creator-First Move

Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath has joined forces once again with entrepreneur Vijay Subramaniam, this time by investing in Collective Artists Network (CAN), a talent management agency led by Subramaniam. This marks Kamath’s second venture with Subramaniam.

The investment facilitates a significant return (over 5x) for InMobi’s Glance, which had previously invested in CAN in 2021. This signals a strategic exit for Glance.

Collective Artists Network

Originally known for its expertise in talent management, Collective Artists Network has evolved into a multifaceted new media powerhouse. Its services now encompass talent management, creator tech, production, creative strategy, influencer marketing, youth marketing, sports sponsorship and consulting, and media distribution. This broad-based approach, as per the company, aims to redefine the creator-driven new media landscape and maximize impact in today’s dynamic media scene.

Collaboration and Shared Vision

This investment comes on the heels of a recent collaboration between Collective and Kamath-backed Gruhas. Together, they launched the ‘Gruhas Collective Consumer Fund (GCCF)’ to support consumer-focused businesses and attract external investments. The fund offers not just financial backing but also mentorship and operational assistance. Furthermore, empowering portfolio companies in marketing and brand building.

Kamath and Subramaniam Have A Shared Belief in the Evolving Media Landscape

Commenting on the investment, Kamath stated that supporting Collective’s vision feels like a natural progression. He has closely observed the company’s growth over the past few years. Furthermore, shares a similar outlook on the potential of the Indian media scene. He expressed his enthusiasm for being part of Collective’s journey as they challenge the status quo and redefine the media landscape and creator ecosystem.

Vijay Subramaniam, Collective’s Founder and Group CEO, echoed Kamath’s sentiment. He views Kamath’s investment as more than just financial support; it signifies the trust and collaboration they’ve built over time. Subramaniam has long emphasized the need to institutionalize the largely unorganized media and entertainment space in India. This vision, he believes, will ensure shareholder value and set new benchmarks in media, technology, and entertainment.

Subramaniam further acknowledged Glance’s role as a valuable partner and expressed his appreciation for their trust in Collective. He also highlighted his shared belief with Kamath that India is poised to become a global media powerhouse. However, with media and entertainment playing a pivotal role in the country’s growth story.

Stay tuned for more updates on this new collaboration between the Bangalore-based entrepreneurs.