Biography of Sreeram Reddy Vanga: Founder of Kofluence, Moderate -Entrepreneur
Sreeram Reddy Vanga: A Visionary Entrepreneur Transforming Industries
Sreeram Reddy Vanga, an accomplished entrepreneur and
business leader, has built a remarkable career spanning over two decades. With
a strong background in electrical and electronics engineering from Purdue
University, he has leveraged his technical expertise to establish and scale
multiple successful ventures. His journey is a testament to perseverance,
innovation, and strategic leadership in the dynamic world of startups and
technology.
At the helm of Kofluence, Sreeram serves as the CEO and
Co-founder, driving the company's vision to disrupt the influencer marketing
space using AI-powered solutions. Since its inception in 2020, Kofluence has
rapidly gained traction, helping brands connect with relevant influencers to
amplify their marketing efforts. Under his leadership, the company has focused
on technological advancements, strategic partnerships, and expansion into new
markets.
Beyond Kofluence, Sreeram is a General Partner at Hustle
Partners, an investment firm dedicated to identifying and supporting
innovative, technology-driven startups. Since 2018, Hustle Partners has
provided funding, mentorship, and talent access to budding entrepreneurs,
ensuring they have the right resources to build scalable businesses. His deep
understanding of startup dynamics makes him a valuable guide for emerging
founders.
Biography of Sreeram Reddy Vanga: Founder of Kofluence, Moderate -Entrepreneur#startup#age#et worth#investor#entrepreneur#shark tank#CozyGames
His entrepreneurial journey began in 2004 with the
establishment of InnoPark (India) Pvt. Ltd. Over the past two decades, InnoPark
has evolved into a conglomerate with multiple successful ventures under its
umbrella. The company thrives on its core values of innovation, strategic
thinking, and operational excellence, which have contributed to its sustained
growth.
Sreeram’s expertise in building and scaling businesses has
led to two successful startup exits. His venture CozyGames, a gaming platform,
was acquired by Entain Plc, a UK-based FTSE 100 company. Similarly, OpenPlay,
another gaming enterprise he founded, was acquired by Nazara Technologies, a
leading gaming and sports media company in India. These exits highlight his
ability to create valuable businesses that attract global interest.
Meanwhile, on Shark Tank India, entrepreneurs from the
wellness brand Moderate pitched their innovative products—Calorie Crusher
Tablets and Sugar Slayer. Their supplements claim to reduce carbohydrate
absorption and regulate blood sugar levels, making them appealing to the
health-conscious market. Despite initial skepticism from the sharks, the pitch
sparked curiosity due to its scientific backing.
During the pitch, investor Vineeta Singh found the packaging
appealing but hesitated to try the product. Anupam Mittal raised concerns about
clinical trials, prompting the founders to disclose that they had invested ₹50
lakh in research. Peyush Bansal further inquired about potential side effects,
to which the founders admitted that 20% of users might experience temporary
digestive discomfort.
As the discussion progressed, the founders defended their
product against comparisons to Apple Cider Vinegar. Kunal Bahl introduced the
concept of the "Ozempic revolution," questioning whether the startup
was prepared for regulatory scrutiny. Despite concerns, Anupam recognized the
massive market potential, calling it a “multi-trillion dollar opportunity” if
the product delivered as promised.
The Calorie Crusher Tablets work by inhibiting enzymes
responsible for breaking down carbohydrates, thereby reducing calorie
absorption. Sugar Slayer, on the other hand, helps balance blood sugar levels
after meals, making it particularly useful for diabetics. These products cater
to a growing demand for health-conscious solutions without requiring
significant lifestyle changes.
The founders asked for ₹50 lakh for a 1.25% stake, valuing
their company at ₹40 crore. While their scientific approach impressed some
sharks, concerns remained about consumer acceptance and competition. The
intense negotiation phase saw differing opinions on valuation and potential
risks.
Investor Aman Gupta appreciated the science-driven branding,
while Kunal Bahl, despite initial reservations about the packaging, saw
long-term potential. After multiple counteroffers, the founders eventually
secured a ₹1 crore investment for 5% equity, adjusting their company valuation
to ₹20 crore.
Speaking about the investment, Moderate’s Co-founder,
Kartikeya Kabra, stated that the funds would be used for targeted marketing
campaigns, influencer collaborations, and expert partnerships. The goal is to
build consumer trust through transparency and education about the benefits of
their products.
India’s growing obesity and diabetes crisis underscores the
demand for such solutions. With over 77 million diabetes patients in India,
sugar regulation is a major health concern. Moderate’s products tap into this
segment, offering a scientifically backed, preventative approach to wellness.
Despite securing funding, Moderate faces several challenges,
including regulatory approvals, consumer education, and competition from
established supplement brands. The company plans to expand scientific trials,
refine its packaging, and strengthen brand credibility to overcome these
hurdles.
Sreeram Reddy Vanga’s story of building and scaling multiple
businesses, coupled with the inspiring journey of startups like Moderate,
reflects the dynamic landscape of innovation in India. Whether as a founder,
investor, or mentor, Sreeram continues to shape the startup ecosystem, guiding
new ventures toward success.
Timeline for story
2004 – Sreeram Reddy Vanga founded InnoPark (India) Pvt.
Ltd.
2018 – Became General Partner at Hustle Partners.
2020 – Co-founded Kofluence, an AI-driven influencer
marketing platform.
2021 – OpenPlay was acquired by Nazara Technologies.
2022 – CozyGames was acquired by Entain Plc.
2024 – Moderate pitched Calorie Crusher Tablets and Sugar
Slayer on Shark Tank India.
2024 – Moderate secured ₹1 crore for 5% equity on Shark Tank
India.
