Upaya Social Ventures

View Original

GO DESi

Founder: Vinay Kothari and Raksha Kothari

Portfolio Partner: 2019

Operational State: Karnataka

GO DESi, an Indian confectionery brand inspired by regional flavors, is sourced, packed, and branded at the farm gate.

GO DESi enables the setup of micro-units in rural and semi-urban areas managed by farmer cooperatives and SHGs. These micro-units use local produce as the main raw material for manufacturing regional products under the GO DESi brand name. They, in turn, plug these products into our selling and distribution networks in urban markets.

Visit their website to learn more.


About the Founders:

Vinay Kothari is the Founder of GO DESi, a packaged food brand aiming to popularize traditional DESi foods with a branded experience. With over 10 years in FMCG, He has led sales and marketing at ITC Foods and managed rural distribution for E-Choupal. He is currently interested in farming, food processing, and supply chain technology. His hobbies include behavioral economics, rock climbing, and meditation.

With a diverse background in social impact and organizational management, Raksha Kothari heads the sourcing department at GO DESi, overseeing procurement, vendor management, and HR functions. Their experience includes facilitating rural immersion programs with Youth Alliance and working with Prafull Oorja and URI on holistic practices for kids with special needs.