TheCconnects: Can you tell our readers a little about your professional journey and how you came to your current role/position?
Vandana Tolani: My professional journey has been shaped by a deep passion for identifying potential, nurturing businesses, and enabling them to scale with the right resources and strategies. I began my career in investment banking, working extensively with family offices and angel investors across Singapore and Jakarta. Over 15 years in international markets, I gained invaluable insights into how capital flows, what investors truly seek, and the intricate challenges startups face in securing funding. During this time, I collaborated with businesses across diverse sectors—FinTech, B2B tech, consumer brands, and more—helping them not only raise funds but also build strong financial and operational foundations.
When I returned to India, I identified a critical gap in the startup ecosystem—many promising ventures struggled not only to access capital but also to obtain the strategic mentorship needed to scale sustainably. This realization led me to found Convanto, a boutique investment advisory firm focused on early-stage fundraising and business growth. What started as an effort to guide startups through their fundraising journeys soon evolved into a much larger vision: Convanto became a trusted platform where investors and entrepreneurs can connect meaningfully, beyond mere transactions.
Today, as Founder and CEO, I work closely with startups to refine their business models, optimize their fundraising strategies, and build long-term investor relationships. I firmly believe that securing capital is just one piece of the puzzle—the true differentiator lies in strategic execution, adaptability, and a robust support system. Through Convanto, my mission is to bridge this gap, ensuring that high-potential startups receive not only funding but also the guidance and networks necessary to thrive in competitive markets.
Over the years, my journey has afforded me the opportunity to mentor numerous entrepreneurs, speak at global forums, and contribute to the evolution of India’s startup ecosystem. As the landscape continues to evolve, my focus remains on helping founders transform ambitious ideas into scalable, impactful businesses.
TheCconnects: Who has influenced you the most in life and why?
Vandana Tolani: Throughout my journey, various people and experiences have shaped my perspective, but if I had to highlight the most profound influences, they would be a blend of visionary entrepreneurs, trusted mentors, and my own early passion for finance.
As a child, I was naturally drawn to the world of finance and business—curious about how money moves, how companies grow, and what makes an idea scalable. This curiosity deepened over time and ultimately guided my career path. Growing up, I admired Sudha Murty’s resilience, simplicity, and her ability to create a meaningful impact. Likewise, Falguni Nayar’s bold transition from banking to entrepreneurship—building Nykaa into a billion-dollar brand—was truly inspiring. Their journeys reinforced my belief that strategic thinking, patience, and unwavering focus are essential for lasting success.
In addition to these personal inspirations, my 15 years working in investment banking across Singapore and Jakarta had a significant impact. Interacting with visionary founders and astute investors taught me that success is not just about securing capital—it is about adaptability, execution, and building the right partnerships. Watching entrepreneurs navigate uncertainty and transform challenges into opportunities fueled my passion for mentoring startups and helping them scale effectively. This drive ultimately led me to found Convanto, where my focus has always been on bridging the gap between capital and strategy.
TheCconnects: What are the biggest challenges you have faced, and how did you overcome them?
Vandana Tolani: Challenges are an inevitable part of any journey, and mine has been no different. Whether it was transitioning from a corporate role to entrepreneurship, building Convanto from the ground up, or navigating the ever-changing investment landscape, each phase presented its own set of hurdles.
One of the biggest challenges I encountered early on was establishing credibility in a competitive industry dominated by larger players. Although I brought years of experience in investment banking to the table, breaking into the startup ecosystem as an independent advisor meant I had to build trust, prove my value, and demonstrate tangible results. The key to overcoming this challenge was patience, persistence, and a relentless focus on execution. I made it a priority that every startup I worked with received not just funding support, but also strategic guidance, which gradually helped Convanto build a strong reputation.
Another significant challenge was navigating uncertain market conditions. The fundraising landscape is constantly shifting—economic downturns, changing investor sentiment, and global disruptions can all make it difficult for startups to secure capital. The only way to stay ahead was to remain adaptable: understanding market trends, preparing founders for evolving investor expectations, and continually refining strategies to align with the realities of the ecosystem.
Additionally, breaking stereotypes as a woman in finance and venture capital has been an ongoing journey. Although the industry is evolving, it still presents unique barriers. I have overcome these challenges by focusing on delivering results, maintaining confidence in my expertise, and letting my work speak for itself.
Ultimately, I’ve learned that challenges are not roadblocks—they are opportunities to innovate, pivot, and grow. Each hurdle has strengthened my resolve, making me even more determined to help startups navigate their journeys with clarity and confidence.
TheCconnects: What key lessons have you learned from your professional career?
Vandana Tolani: Over the years, my professional journey has been filled with invaluable lessons—some learned through success, others through challenges. One of the most important realizations is that credibility is not built overnight. When I started Convanto, I entered a competitive space dominated by larger players, and I knew that earning trust would take time. I focused on delivering genuine value, being transparent in my approach, and ensuring that every startup I worked with received more than just funding support. Over time, that trust solidified, and it is now the cornerstone of Convanto’s reputation.
Another lesson that has profoundly shaped my approach is the importance of adaptability. The investment landscape is inherently unpredictable—markets shift, investor priorities change, and economic cycles introduce new challenges. I have witnessed firsthand that the businesses that survive are those that embrace change rather than resist it. The ability to pivot, refine strategies, and stay ahead of the curve is far more valuable than simply having a great business idea. As Charles Darwin famously noted, “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent; it is the one most adaptable to change.” This principle holds as true for businesses as it does for life.
Furthermore, my experiences in investment banking and working with founders have taught me that capital alone is never enough. While funding is often seen as a crucial milestone for startups, the real challenge begins after securing investment. Execution, discipline, and the ability to scale sustainably are what truly determine long-term success. That is why I have always focused on guiding entrepreneurs beyond just raising funds—helping them deploy resources effectively and build enduring businesses.
Lastly, I have learned the immense value of relationships. Some of the best partnerships and opportunities have arisen not from mere transactions, but from long-term trust and mutual respect. Whether working with investors, founders, or industry peers, I have found that genuine relationships far outweigh short-term gains.
TheCconnects: How do your products/services/solutions address your customers’ pain points?
Vandana Tolani: At Convanto, we do more than just facilitate fundraising—we tackle the deeper, more complex challenges that early-stage startups face in securing and managing capital. For many founders, the journey to raise funds is fraught with uncertainty. They not only struggle with accessing the right investors but also with understanding the nuances of financial structuring, valuation, and long-term capital planning. This is where we come in—not merely as advisors, but as partners who help navigate the intricacies of the investment landscape.
One of the most critical pain points we address is the lack of investor access. Many promising startups lack the networks or credibility to connect with the right investors, often wasting valuable time pitching to those who are not a good fit. We bridge this gap by leveraging our deep relationships with global investors, ensuring that founders connect with funding partners who truly align with their sector, stage, and vision. This targeted approach not only saves startups time but also significantly improves their chances of securing meaningful investment.
Beyond access, we also address investor readiness. Many founders have excellent ideas but struggle to position themselves effectively. Investors seek more than just an innovative product—they need a clear growth strategy, a well-defined market opportunity, and a sustainable business model. At Convanto, we work closely with founders to refine their pitch, strengthen their financials, and craft a compelling investment narrative. We help them identify gaps, address potential concerns, and ensure they are fully prepared when entering investor discussions.
Financial structuring is another area where startups often encounter challenges. Many unknowingly dilute too much equity early on or take on funding that later restricts their flexibility. We assist founders in navigating these decisions—whether it involves choosing between equity or debt financing, structuring deals to maintain control, or ensuring sufficient runway for future growth. The right financial strategy can mean the difference between a startup that scales successfully and one that struggles despite raising funds.
Finally, we recognize that fundraising is only the beginning of the journey. Many startups secure capital but then face challenges in deploying it efficiently. Growth-stage businesses need to manage cash flow effectively, optimize unit economics, and ensure that capital is used for sustainable scaling rather than short-term expansion. At Convanto, we continue to support founders in making these critical financial decisions, ensuring that their funding is used wisely to maximize long-term value.
TheCconnects: What do you do in your free time?
Vandana Tolani: In my free time, I turn to reading as both an escape and a source of continuous learning. Books have profoundly shaped my thinking—whether by exploring the journeys of business leaders, delving into financial and economic insights, or reflecting on philosophical perspectives that offer a deeper understanding of life. Reading is not merely a habit; it is a way to remain intellectually engaged, gain fresh perspectives, and draw lessons that often find their way into my work.
Beyond books, I derive immense joy from traveling. Experiencing new cultures, meeting people from diverse backgrounds, and observing how businesses and economies function around the world has been incredibly enriching. Travel is not just about seeing new places—it is about broadening my worldview, challenging preconceived notions, and understanding the nuances of human behavior, which is invaluable in both life and business.
Amid the demands of work, I have also learned to appreciate moments of quiet reflection. Whether it’s taking a walk, journaling, or simply stepping back to process my thoughts, these pauses allow me to reset and approach challenges with renewed clarity. In a fast-paced world, making room for personal growth, curiosity, and reflection is just as important as achieving professional success.
TheCconnects: Do you have any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs or C-suite executives?
Vandana Tolani: Success in business—and in life—is about playing the long game. One of the biggest mistakes I see entrepreneurs and executives make is chasing quick wins at the expense of long-term sustainability. It’s easy to get caught up in short-term goals—rapid growth, quick funding, and immediate profits—but the real challenge is about endurance, adaptability, and making decisions that retain value for years to come.
One of the hardest yet most rewarding lessons is embracing delayed gratification. The ability to work diligently today, even when results are not immediately apparent, distinguishes those who build lasting businesses from those who burn out chasing instant success. There will be moments when it seems as though nothing is moving, when setbacks cause you to question everything—but it is precisely during these times that patience and persistence are most critical.
Long-term success also hinges on relationships. Whether with investors, employees, or customers, trust takes time to build and can be lost in an instant. The best leaders do not focus solely on quarterly metrics; they think in decades. They understand that reputation, credibility, and strong partnerships are the true competitive advantages in any industry.
You can connect with Vandana Tolani on LinkedIn here
