FOR STARTUPS
How do I list my startup on The Hook Hustlers?
Sign up at thehookhustlers.com/signup, select "I'm a Startup", fill in your company details, upload your DPIIT certificate, and pay the ₹499/month subscription. Our team will verify your DPIIT certificate within 48 hours and activate your profile.
What is a DPIIT registration and why is it required?
DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) registration is India's official startup recognition under the Startup India scheme. We require it to ensure all startups on our platform are genuine, legally registered Indian entities. You can register at startupindia.gov.in.
How does the AI matching work?
Our algorithm analyses your startup's sector, funding stage, traction metrics, team background, city, and other factors against each investor's stated preferences and past investments. You'll receive a curated list of matched investors ranked by compatibility score.
What is the Funding Readiness Score?
Your Funding Readiness Score (out of 100) is an AI-generated assessment of how investor-ready your startup profile is. It evaluates completeness of information, traction metrics, team strength, market size, and financial data. A higher score means more investor matches.
Can I close a deal outside the platform?
No. As per our Terms of Use, all deals resulting from connections made through the Platform must be confirmed on the Platform. Circumventing this is a breach of agreement and subject to legal action. Our deal confirmation process protects both you and the investor.
FOR INVESTORS
How do I join as an investor?
Sign up and select "I'm an Investor". You'll need to provide your LinkedIn profile URL and AUM documentation for verification. Annual membership is ₹4,599 based on your investment capacity. Verification takes 2-3 business days.
What types of investors can join?
We welcome angel investors, venture capital firms, corporate investors, government funds (including Startup India registered funds), private equity firms, and family offices — any legitimate investment entity operating in India.
How do I set my investment preferences?
After your account is verified, you can toggle your preferences in your investor dashboard — including preferred sectors, funding stages, ticket sizes, city preferences, and more. Our AI uses these to curate your weekly deal digest.
GENERAL
How do I contact support?
Email us at _thehookhustlers@gmail.com, call/WhatsApp +91 89249 52608, or use the contact form at thehookhustlers.com/contact. We respond within 24 hours on all working days.
Is there a mobile app?
Not yet — we're focused on building the best possible web platform first. A mobile app is planned for a future phase. Our website is fully mobile-responsive and works great on all devices.