Startup News
Investment Surges into Robotics Startups as Automation Drives Demand
Investors are significantly boosting robotics startups, driven by a global surge in automation and falling production costs. Global funding hit $18.6B in 2024 (up 116%), with Indian startups raising $117M (4x increase). This boom is fueled by cheaper components (thanks to EVs), AI advancements making robots smarter, and strong demand for automation in diverse sectors.
Dual Tracks in Trade: India and US Negotiate in Washington, Square Off in Geneva
India and the US are engaged in a complex trade dynamic, negotiating a bilateral deal in Washington while simultaneously clashing at the WTO in Geneva. India seeks market access for its goods and protects agriculture, while the US pushes for dairy access. Both nations are using all avenues—negotiation and legal challenges—to assert their trade interests.
Accelerating Innovation: AIC-BIMTECH Hosts Google AI Day for Startups, Empowering Over 150 Ventures
AIC-BIMTECH recently hosted 'Google AI Day for Startups,' gathering over 150 ventures. The event, aligned with Google for Startups' India initiative, provided deep dives into Generative AI, Google AI tools, and growth strategies, with sessions by Google experts. It fostered crucial networking and learning, empowering startups to leverage AI for scaling and innovation.
RBI Closely Monitoring Global Crypto Landscape as India Prepares Policy Paper
The RBI is closely watching global crypto trends as India prepares a policy paper. Governor Malhotra cited concerns about financial stability. Despite a 30% tax and 1% TDS on crypto gains, India lacks full legal recognition. A comprehensive framework, seeking public input, is expected, while the RBI pushes its own Digital Rupee.
IndiGo Ventures Achieves First Close of Maiden Fund at ₹450 Crore, Fuels Aerospace Innovation with Jeh Aerospace Investment
IndiGo Ventures, the airline's VC arm, announced the first close of its debut fund at ₹450 crore. It also made its first investment in Hyderabad-based Jeh Aerospace, a high-precision aerospace & defense manufacturer. This move aims to boost India's aviation ecosystem and advance Make-in-India, supporting early-stage startups in the sector.
Federal Bank Strengthens Leadership with V Venkateswaran's Appointment as Executive Director
Federal Bank has appointed V Venkateswaran as Executive Director for three years, starting July 10, 2025. Previously Group President and CFO, his 33 years of experience in manufacturing and banking (Standard Chartered, HSBC) will bolster the bank's "Digital at the Fore and Human at the Core" strategy and drive growth.
Lenskart Founder Peyush Bansal Poised to Increase Stake Ahead of Mega IPO
Lenskart's founder, Peyush Bansal, plans to increase his stake pre-IPO, a trend among Indian tech founders. This move, ahead of a potential $8-10 billion IPO, aims to solidify ownership after past dilution and follows Lenskart's strong FY24 performance, showcasing improved profitability and sales growth.
Zepto's Rocketing Valuation: Quick Commerce Unicorn Eyes $7 Billion After Fresh Funding Round
Zepto, the quick commerce unicorn, is reportedly set to raise $450-$500 million, boosting its valuation to $7 billion – a 40% jump! Existing investors like General Catalyst and Avenir Growth are leading the round. This fresh capital will fuel Zepto's aggressive expansion in India's competitive rapid delivery market, following strong FY24 revenue growth and reduced losses.
Umiya Buildcon's Strategic Leap: Strong Q1 FY26 Performance Driven by Hybrid Revenue Model
Umiya Buildcon reports a strong Q1 FY26, with revenue up 17% to ₹12.82 crore and adjusted EBITDA soaring 745% to ₹42.12 crore. This growth is driven by its hybrid revenue model, balancing high-margin real estate and telecom/networking solutions. A key asset sale of ₹40.5 crore boosted capital, earmarked for new manufacturing and R&D.
Bengaluru and Berlin Forge Stronger Ties to Ignite Innovation and Startup Ecosystems
Bengaluru and Berlin have inked a pact to boost innovation and startup exchange. Karnataka's IT Minister Priyank Kharge announced the partnership, part of the Global Innovation Alliance, focusing on Fintech, AI, IT, and Life Sciences. Berlin will open its first Indian business office in Bengaluru, highlighting a commitment to inclusive and sustainable tech growth.
Indian Startups Show Cautious Optimism: 80,000 New Tech Jobs Expected in FY26
Indian startups, emerging from a "funding winter," expect to add 80,000 new tech jobs in FY26, bringing the total tech workforce to 6.7 lakh. This cautious optimism focuses on leaner, skill-based teams, prioritizing experienced professionals in quick commerce, fintech, and e-retail. Tier-2/3 cities are also driving growth, while AI impacts entry-level roles.
India Edges Towards US Trade Deal Amidst Tariff Pressures, GTRI Urges Caution
India nears a limited trade deal with the US, aiming to avert August 1 reciprocal tariffs. While Trump is optimistic, GTRI urges caution, calling it a "Yielding to American Tariff Retaliation Agreement." India prioritizes safeguarding its farmers and insists on a balanced pact, especially regarding GM agricultural products.