The Indian startup ecosystem continues to thrive as startups collectively raised more than $308 million across 24 deals this week, reflecting the bullish funding environment. As the ‘Startup India’ initiative marks its ninth anniversary, the country now boasts over 1.59 lakh startups recognized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
From tech-driven solutions to rural innovations, healthcare advancements to biotech breakthroughs, and fintech to edtech, Indian startups are addressing global challenges, creating employment opportunities, and advancing self-reliance.
This week, Netradyne, a leading SaaS provider of artificial intelligence (AI) and edge computing, announced $90 million in Series D funding. The round was led by Point72 Private Investments, with participation from Qualcomm Ventures and Pavilion Capital. The new capital will accelerate Netradyne’s growth through strategic investments in R&D, enhanced go-to-market efforts, and global expansion.
Foxtale, a homegrown D2C skincare brand, secured $30 million in its Series C funding round, attracting investment from Japanese multinational KOSE Corporation, alongside continued support from Panthera Growth Partners, Z47, and Kae Capital.
In addition, early-stage venture capital firm 100X.VC invested $2.7 million in 18 domestic startups as part of its 12th cohort.
January 16 marked the nine-year anniversary of ‘Startup India,’ a transformative journey that began in 2016. Designated as ‘National Startup Day,’ this occasion celebrates India’s progress in fostering a robust and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. Recognized startups have reportedly created over 16.6 lakh direct jobs from 2016 to October 31, 2024, significantly contributing to employment generation.
While major hubs like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi-NCR have led this transformation, smaller cities are also increasingly contributing to the nation’s entrepreneurial momentum.
These developments highlight the dynamic and resilient nature of India’s startup landscape. W
