Vivriti Asset Management, a pioneering credit investment platform, has recently announced the successful acquisition of $20 million in senior debt commitments for its Vivriti India Retail Assets Fund (VIRAF) from the Development Bank of Austria (OeEB).
This latest infusion elevates total commitments in VIRAF to $165 million, inching closer to its ambitious target of $250 million.
Empowering Micro and Small Businesses
VIRAF, launched in March 2023, stands out as India’s first asset-backed securitization (ABS) fund. The initiative is designed to enhance funding accessibility for micro and small enterprises, particularly those spearheaded by women.
By concentrating on investments in asset-backed securities tied to granular retail and MSME loans, Vivriti aims to strengthen the financial ecosystem for non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and other institutions that cater to underserved borrower segments.
As of March 2025, the fund has successfully amassed approximately $140 million in assets under management (AUM). Since its inception, VIRAF has facilitated the disbursement of $200 million through partnerships with 25 NBFCs, thus impacting over 350,000 individuals and 100,000 MSMEs.
Notably, over 75% of the beneficiaries are women, underscoring the fund’s commitment to financial inclusion.
A Vision for Sustainable Growth
The Development Bank of Austria plays a crucial role in promoting impact investments in developing regions.
By financing private sector projects, OeEB aims to foster sustainable economic growth, with a particular emphasis on green finance, SME development, and financial inclusion.
Vivriti Asset Management has ambitious plans for the future, with a goal to invest over $1 billion in retail ABS over the next decade.
This strategic vision not only reflects the firm’s commitment to enhancing access to finance but also aligns with broader economic goals of empowering small businesses and promoting gender equality in entrepreneurship.
With this latest funding round and its ongoing initiatives, Vivriti continues to pave the way for innovative financial solutions that address the unique challenges faced by small enterprises in India.
