Mayank Kumar, co-founder of upGrad, and Ayush Mathur, a former OYO executive, have launched BorderPlus, a platform connecting skilled Indian professionals to international job opportunities. Starting with the German healthcare sector, BorderPlus offers comprehensive training programs, including language and cultural preparation, while planning expansion into the US, UK, and Japan.
Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) is reportedly in advanced discussions to acquire Jaipur-based skincare startup Minimalist for approximately ₹3,000 crore ($350 million). Founded in 2020 by brothers Mohit and Rahul Yadav, Minimalist has gained prominence for its ingredient-focused skincare products and has demonstrated significant financial growth, with revenues nearly doubling from ₹184 crore in FY23 to ₹350 crore in FY24. The acquisition aligns with HUL's strategic focus on high-growth segments within the beauty and personal care industry.
EaseMyTrip CEO Nishant Pitti has resigned, passing the leadership baton to co-founder Rikant Pittie. This transition coincides with diversification efforts into study tourism and EV manufacturing. However, profitability challenges loom, with a 45% profit drop in Q2 FY24. Rikant's leadership will be pivotal in steering future growth and operational efficiency.
CARS24 has elevated Himanshu Ratnoo to CEO of its Used Cars India division. Ratnoo, a 2020 joiner, will spearhead strategic growth initiatives like franchising and luxury car transactions. This leadership move underscores CARS24's ambition to solidify its dominance in India's pre-owned vehicle market and enhance its operational efficiency.
A Reddit post by a successful Indian startup founder has sparked debate by urging high earners to leave India, citing systemic issues like excessive taxation, corruption, and inadequate infrastructure. The entrepreneur highlighted challenges such as bureaucratic red tape, regional discrimination, and lack of civic responsibility, calling for professionals to seek better opportunities abroad. The post has drawn both support and criticism, with some agreeing on the systemic flaws while others emphasized the importance of contributing to India’s progress.
Bengaluru-based startup Swish is under fire for hiring people as "human ads" to promote its 10-minute food delivery service. While some praise the creative advertising strategy, others criticize it as dehumanizing and exploitative. This comes on the heels of Swish's controversial 10-minute delivery promise, raising concerns about food quality and delivery safety. The debate highlights the fine line between innovation and ethics in modern advertising.
Ukhi, founded by Priyanka Chauhan, Vishal Vivek, and Sundeep Kumar Tyagi, is transforming agricultural waste into biodegradable packaging solutions. With recent funding led by 100Unicorns and participation from industry veterans, the startup is poised to scale its operations, offering eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastics and supporting sustainable practices worldwide.
Wheelocity, a Chennai-based startup, has pivoted to rural e-commerce, targeting India’s underserved semi-urban and rural markets. Founded by Selvam VMS in 2021, the company uses a unique “phygital” model, combining an app with a fleet of 1,000 electric vehicles for daily doorstep deliveries. Operating in 3,500 villages, Wheelocity plans to expand to 20,000 villages across southern India, aiming to reach 10 million consumers. Backed by Lightspeed, the startup recently raised $15 million to scale its operations and grow its electric fleet.
EMotorad, India’s leading e-mobility brand, has surpassed its FY24 domestic sales in the first half of FY25, with September 2024 marking its highest-ever monthly revenue. The company’s growth is fueled by strategic expansion, including 12 new experience stores and partnerships with over 550 dealers nationwide. EMotorad is on track to achieve over 200% year-on-year growth, reflecting the rising demand for sustainable mobility solutions.
Indian startups are optimistic about stronger US-India business ties and increased funding under Trump’s presidency. His anti-China stance may divert US investments toward India, benefiting sectors like AI and semiconductors. However, concerns remain over inflationary impacts and potential rate hikes. With JD Vance as Vice President, the startup ecosystem expects a supportive stance for tech growth and innovation
TedTech Traders, founded in 2019 in Vasai, Mumbai, has rapidly transformed from an online LED seller to a pioneer in LED home decor, merging technology with traditional designs. After observing customers’ desire for authentic diya experiences, TedTech introduced the Water Sensor Diya, which activates when filled with water. With patented products like the LED Lotus Reflection Diya and 3D Reflection Water Sensor Diya, TedTech has expanded to seven countries and recently launched app-controlled LED panels. As a certified ISO 9001:2015 company, TedTech continues to deliver innovative, affordable lighting solutions, staying committed to quality and local manufacturing.
Kunal Bahl, co-founder of Snapdeal and Titan Capital, joins Shark Tank India Season 4, replacing Zomato CEO Deepinder Goyal. Goyal exited due to Swiggy, Zomato's competitor, sponsoring the season and requesting his removal. Bahl brings his entrepreneurial expertise to the panel, joining Anupam Mittal, Aman Gupta, Namita Thapar, and Ritesh Agarwal. The new season, hosted by Sahiba Bali and Ashish Solanki, will stream on Sony LIV, adding fresh excitement for fans of the popular reality show.
Singapore-based ThinKuvate has made the first close of its Rs 100-crore India-focused fund, raising Rs 25 crore within four months. The fund targets early-stage startups, co-investing alongside top venture capital firms in sectors like healthtech, fintech, AI, and more. ThinKuvate has already invested in four startups, including Rosh.ai and Zippee, and plans to back 30-40 companies with Rs 1.5-4 crore investments. Over 50% of the fund’s investors are NRIs from countries such as Singapore, the US, and Australia, highlighting its global appeal.
