At an impressively young age, Misbah Ashraf has etched a remarkable path as a serial entrepreneur, founding three startups that illuminate his dynamic journey across fashion, technology, and fintech. His entrepreneurial journey commenced in 2017 with the founding of Marsplay, a community-led commerce platform for fashion and beauty. Under Misbah’s leadership, Marsplay quickly became a hub for over a million active users, showcasing his proficiency in product, design, and growth.
However, Marsplay wasn’t just a success story in terms of user numbers. Misbah’s strategic vision led to the platform’s successful acquisition, a testament to his ability to not only create but also strategically position startups for long-term success.
Undeterred by success, Misbah ventured into the fintech space in 2021 with the establishment of Jar. This innovative startup aims to revolutionise the way younger individuals approach savings and investments, starting with the culturally significant asset class of gold. The ambitious venture quickly garnered attention and secured $32 million in funding led by Tiger Global, highlighting the potential impact of Misbah’s latest foray.
Jar’s mission goes beyond being a financial platform; it seeks to reintroduce the concept of savings and investments, making it a daily habit. Misbah’s strategic approach and commitment to financial inclusivity are evident in Jar’s goals, aligning the platform with the changing aspirations of the younger demographic.
Misbah’s influence extends far beyond the borders of India. His role as a Fellow at On Deck, a global community of top product, engineering, and entrepreneurial talent, reflects his commitment to cross-continental collaborations. Additionally, as a partner at India Goes Global Pvt. Ltd., Misbah contributes to India-focused strategy consulting, showcasing his dedication to shaping not just startups but also the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Collaborating with startups across three continents, Misbah’s ventures underline the global footprint of his entrepreneurial endeavors. His ability to build delightful products and scale them without borders is a testament to the universal appeal of his strategic vision.
Acknowledged as a Forbes India 30 under 30 and Forbes Asia 30 under 30 honoree, Misbah has become a luminary in the startup ecosystem. His insights and accomplishments, featured in esteemed publications, further solidify his standing as a thought leader.
Awards and accolades during his impactful tenure at S&P Capital IQ showcase Misbah’s commitment to excellence and innovation. As a senior research associate, he significantly contributed to the platform’s capabilities, becoming a vital resource for financial professionals globally.
At the core of Misbah’s journey is a passion for building products that not only meet users’ needs but also delight them. His entrepreneurial energy is derived from bringing order to chaos, solving problems preemptively, and staying focused during challenging times.
His love for people, coupled with an affinity for numbers and a relentless drive for success, shapes a holistic approach to entrepreneurship. Describing himself as a hustler, fighter, serial entrepreneur, investor, mother, optimist, and go-getter, Misbah’s multifaceted identity reflects the dynamism required to navigate the diverse challenges that come with entrepreneurship.
From a dropout entrepreneur to a recognised figure in the startup realm, Misbah Ashraf’s story resonates as a testament to resilience, strategic vision, and a passion for creating meaningful impact. As he continues to shape financial habits and foster inclusivity through Jar, Misbah stands as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, epitomising the essence of impactful and sustainable entrepreneurship. His journey signifies the transformative power of visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to a better, more sustainable world.
