Prashant Prakash on India’s Startup Surge: “We Didn’t Expect to Get Here So Fast”

It was a buzzing, electric atmosphere — the kind that can only be witnessed when India’s innovation engine kicks into full throttle. Over 50,000 founders, investors, policy makers, students, and dreamers poured into the second edition of Startup Mahakumbh - what has now become the country’s largest startup congregation. The energy was palpable, the ambitions global, and the vision crystal clear: India is no longer just a startup hub; it is fast becoming a startup superpower.

Amid this sea of innovation and possibilities, TICE got an exclusive moment with Prashant Prakash, Founding Partner at Accel India and a pivotal figure in the organising committee of this mega event. His insights didn’t just reflect the overwhelming scale of this year’s summit — they revealed what lies ahead for the country’s booming entrepreneurial landscape.

“Startup Mahakumbh has been beyond expectations,” he smiled, as we began our conversation, reflecting on how a once-nascent idea has now transformed into a national showcase of India's entrepreneurial might.

From tech innovators to grassroots entrepreneurs, the event has spotlighted the best of what Indian startups have to offer.

3X Growth and Counting: What’s Next for Mahakumbh?

This year, the Startup Mahakumbh witnessed three times the scale compared to its debut edition. The event had startups, investors, and stakeholders from 64 countries participating, marking a truly global footprint.

With Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal setting a target to triple the scale again for next year, the challenge is daunting — but not impossible.

“It will be very challenging,” Prashant admitted, “but just like we didn’t expect to get here last year, we’re confident about the next edition too. People who experienced the event this year will spread the word. It’s all about the experience, and that’s what will organically help us hit bigger targets.”

He also confidently predicted a global expansion, stating:

“100 countries will surely come next year. But more importantly, we expect next-gen startups, especially in space-tech, AI and deep-tech, to come with global aspirations. It’s not just about getting bigger — it’s about delivering value to the nation and to the entrepreneurs."

Backing Startups Without Equity: A New Era of Support

Touching upon the funding challenges that startups in India often face, Prashant revealed a significant initiative launched at this year’s event — the Startup Maharathi Challenge.

“This year, through the challenge, we’re providing grants to 200 startups — no equity, no strings attached,” he explained. “Next year, we aim to scale this to 500 startups. This is how we create a strong bridge for early-stage entrepreneurs.”

Institutions like IDFC and the Gates Foundation have come forward to support the initiative, making it one of the most inclusive funding mechanisms seen at a national level.

Global Opportunities Amid Tariff Changes

When asked about how global policy changes like Trump’s proposed tariff plans might affect Indian startups, Prashant had an optimistic take.

“It will actually create a positive impact,” he said. “Compared to countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and China, Indian startups could benefit. The Modi-Trump relationship can be leveraged to open global export opportunities, especially for manufacturing startups. It’s a moment of strategic advantage.”

A Call for Decentralized Support

In conclusion, Prashant echoed Minister Goyal’s appeal for broader, more inclusive support for startups — not just in hubs like Bengaluru or Delhi, but across the entire country.

“SIDBI’s Fund of Funds with ₹10,000 crore is a great initiative,” he said, “but now it’s time to move beyond just density. We must focus on empowering startups from across India, in every state and district.”

As Startup Mahakumbh cements its place as the Kumbh of Indian Innovation, the vision is clear — scale, inclusivity, and global relevance. With leaders like Prashant Prakash and strong government-industry partnerships, India’s startup ecosystem is not just dreaming big — it’s executing bigger.