Gurugram-based startup Grest is revolutionizing India’s refurbished electronics market by offering high-quality, certified smartphones and laptops at affordable prices. Through rigorous quality checks, strong supplier networks, and customer-centric policies, Grest aims to eliminate the stigma surrounding refurbished devices and make premium technology accessible to a wider audience.
The successful deployment of satellites by Pixxel, Digantara, and XDLINX Space Labs on SpaceX’s Transporter-12 mission underscores the innovative spirit of Indian startups. These achievements demonstrate India’s ability to contribute significantly to space exploration and technology on a global scale. As these startups continue to push boundaries, India’s private space sector is poised for even greater milestones in the years to come.
Celebrating National Startup Day, the Startup India initiative has recognized three Telangana-based startups—Skyroot Aerospace, Axial Aero, and Autocracy Machinery—as top performers. These companies have demonstrated exceptional innovation and growth in their respective fields, contributing significantly to India's burgeoning startup ecosystem.
OrbitAID, a Chennai-based spacetech startup specializing in on-orbit refueling solutions, has secured $1.5 million in pre-seed funding. The round was led by Unicorn India Ventures, with additional investment from TANSIM (Government of Tamil Nadu). The funds will facilitate in-space demonstrations of docking and refueling operations, expansion of on-orbit servicing facilities, advancement of their Standard Interface Docking and Refueling Port (SIDRP) to commercial readiness, and scaling of team capabilities.
Pixxel, a Bengaluru-based space technology startup, has launched three hyperspectral imaging satellites aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. This achievement establishes India's first private satellite constellation, enhancing capabilities in sectors such as agriculture, mining, environmental monitoring, and defense.
Boba Bhai, founded in 2023 by Dhruv Kohli, has secured ₹30 crore in Series A funding led by 8i Ventures, with participation from existing investors including Titan Capital and Global Growth Capital. The startup plans to utilize the funds to expand into new cities such as Pune and Ahmedabad, scale operations, introduce new Korean-inspired menu items, and develop sub-brands. Currently operating 42 outlets across nine cities, Boba Bhai aims to double its presence by the end of the year.
BGauss, an electric two-wheeler startup founded by Hemant Kabra, has secured ₹161 crore in funding from Bharat Value Fund. The investment will support the company's expansion in domestic and international markets, increase manufacturing capacity, and advance research and development for upcoming products.
In celebration of National Startup Day on January 16, YourStory will present 'The Great Indian Startup Showcase,' a live marathon event spotlighting more than 200 early-stage startups from across India. This initiative aims to highlight the innovation, resilience, and creativity driving the nation's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
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
