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Arun Joshi
Equity funding for SMEs through an EquityTech delivery platform
Professional Background
Arun Joshi is a visionary entrepreneur in the financial technology sector, recognized for his innovative approach to equity funding for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in India. As the founder of Apohan Corporate Consultants Pvt. Ltd., he has paved the way for a unique consulting service that exclusively caters to SMEs with revenues ranging from Rs. 25 crore to Rs. 250 crore. Arun’s experience in finance and corporate strategy has allowed him to create a semi-automated, disruptive delivery platform that simplifies the complex process of equity funding, providing scalable and cost-effective solutions for SMEs.
Before founding Apohan, Arun held several prestigious positions that contributed to his extensive knowledge and understanding of corporate finance and project management. He served as the Chairman and Managing Director of Apohan Corporate Consultants Pvt. Ltd., a firm he founded to address the significant gap in funding faced by SMEs in India. His tenure at Bluestream Infrastructure Development Consultants, where he was the President for Corporate Affairs, further solidified his expertise in strategic consulting and project execution. Moreover, Arun has held managerial roles in reputed organizations such as the Delhi Integrated Multi Modal Transit System Ltd. (DIMTS), ISOLUX CORSAN, and PricewaterhouseCoopers, where he honed his analytical and consulting skills.
Education and Achievements
Arun Joshi's academic journey began with a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Mechanical Engineering from the esteemed College of Engineering Pune, where he graduated with distinction. His strong foundational knowledge in engineering equipped him with critical thinking skills and a problem-solving mindset that he later applied to financial consulting. Furthering his education, Arun completed an MBA in International Business from the prestigious Indian Institute of Foreign Trade, an experience that broadened his understanding of global market dynamics and business strategies.
Notable Achievements
Under Arun's leadership, Apohan aims to revolutionize the approach to equity funding by highlighting the advantages of equity over debt for SMEs, where traditional banking methods often fall short. His innovative platform emphasizes end-to-end consulting services, ensuring that SMEs receive comprehensive support throughout the funding process. Recognizing that many SMEs excel in their technical capabilities yet lack the skills necessary for effectively navigating equity transactions, Arun has created a niche for consulting services that empower these businesses.
Moreover, Apohan’s mission resonates deeply with Arun, as he aims to combat the alarming rate of private capital expenditure destruction within SMEs. His unwavering commitment to reducing business closures and preventing entrepreneur distress underscores the fundamental purpose behind starting Apohan—saving approximately 9,000 businesses from shutdown annually.
Vision and Core Philosophy
Arun Joshi's approach to equity funding is rooted in understanding the unique challenges faced by SMEs in India's economic landscape. He advocates for equity funding as a more favorable choice than debt, citing several issues often associated with traditional bank loans, such as high-interest rates, delayed lending, and restrictive terms and conditions that can stifle growth or lead to financial distress.
He underscores that equity funding does not require SME owners to give up control or collateral. It allows businesses to access significant capital without the burdensome repayment obligations associated with bank loans. By focusing on the merit and potential of SMEs, Arun aims to create an ecosystem where equity funding becomes the go-to method for small and medium enterprises.
Strategic Innovation and Technology Integration
Arun's vision for Apohan extends into the realm of technology, where he merges equity consulting with emerging technologies. By leveraging data analysis and scientific processes, Apohan's platform serves to enhance transaction efficiency and drive down costs, making equity funding accessible to more SMEs. This technological integration not only streamlines the consultation process but also equips SMEs with the necessary insights to attract potential investors confidently.
Additionally, Arun is passionate about positioning Apohan as a globally replicable business model. His strategy revolves around eliminating inefficiencies in the funding process by introducing a disruptive model that minimizes deal failures and enhances communication protocols among stakeholders. The proactive and service-oriented approach at Apohan aims to enhance the bargaining power of SMEs when seeking investments.
Commitment to Stakeholders
At the heart of Arun Joshi's professional endeavors is a deep commitment to supporting the SME community. By providing vital awareness, education, and strategic guidance tailored to the unique needs of these businesses, he empowers them to engage in equity funding successfully. Arun believes that with the right tools and knowledge, SMEs can thrive and contribute significantly to the Indian economy. His leadership at Apohan represents a significant step toward building a diverse and robust market for SME funding that prioritizes long-term growth and sustainability.
Conclusion
Arun Joshi's multifaceted career and entrepreneurial spirit exemplify a dedication to innovation in financial consulting, particularly in the realm of equity funding for small and medium enterprises. His educational background and extensive corporate experience uniquely qualify him to lead Apohan into a future where equity funding is standard practice for SMEs. By providing comprehensive consulting services, fostering technological advancements, and championing the movement against SME closures, Arun Joshi emerges as a pivotal figure in reshaping the funding landscape for SMEs in India.
Future Goals
As Apohan continues to grow and evolve, Arun's forward-thinking initiatives aim to close 100 equity funding deals daily within the next decade. His relentless pursuit of excellence in equity consulting demonstrates a significant Standard in a sector that requires nuanced understanding and a multifaceted approach. He is committed to establishing Apohan as a leading platform in India’s fintech landscape, helping to secure the financial viability of SMEs and thereby driving economic growth across the nation.
Location
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