Emerging Tech Startup Challenge: Funding, Mentorship, & Market Access

In a strategic move to fuel India’s startup revolution, PwC India has launched its first-ever accelerator program—the Emerging Tech Startup Challenge. This initiative aims to provide early-stage startups with the resources, mentorship, and consulting expertise needed to scale their innovative solutions and gain a competitive edge in the market.

Empowering the Next Wave of Tech Disruptors

India’s startup ecosystem has been growing at an unprecedented rate, with over 100,000 startups registered as of 2024, according to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). However, many promising ventures struggle with scaling due to gaps in strategy, funding, and market access. PwC India’s accelerator program seeks to bridge these gaps by equipping startups with domain-specific expertise, industry insights, and hands-on guidance.

The accelerator targets Indian startups working in emerging technologies such as:

• Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning – Powering automation and decision-making
• Data Analytics – Unlocking insights from vast data sets
• Blockchain & Web 3.0 – Decentralizing systems for increased transparency
• Space Tech – Enabling advancements in satellite technology and space exploration
• Industry 4.0 – Revolutionizing manufacturing and supply chains
  
• Spatial Reality & AR/VR – Transforming user experiences through immersive technologies

A High-Impact, Structured Program

PwC India will select 15 startups for a rigorous three-month engagement, blending online and offline interactions to ensure nationwide accessibility. Participating startups will benefit from:

• 25 hours of pro-bono consulting services in key areas such as business strategy, financial modeling, funding, taxation, and market expansion.
• One-on-one mentorship from PwC’s subject matter experts, helping refine business models and technology frameworks.
• Strategic networking opportunities with investors, enterprise clients, and industry leaders.
• Go-to-market support to accelerate commercial adoption and scale operations effectively.

PwC India’s Vision for the Initiative

The initiative aligns with PwC India’s broader mission to strengthen the country’s tech-driven economy. Top leaders from PwC India emphasized the accelerator’s potential impact:

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Sanjeev Krishan, Chairperson, PwC India: “India’s emerging technology startups are at the forefront of innovation. Through this initiative, we want to ensure that these startups not only survive but thrive by creating disruptive solutions with real-world impact.”

Arnab Basu, Partner and Leader - Advisory, PwC India: “Collaboration between corporates and startups is key to unlocking new growth opportunities. Our accelerator aims to bring the brightest minds together to solve industry challenges and drive meaningful change.”

Manpreet Singh Ahuja, Chief Digital Officer, PwC India: “Digital transformation is reshaping every industry, and startups are leading this revolution. We want to provide them with the tools, networks, and knowledge to make a lasting impact.”

Bridging the Gap Between Innovation and Market Readiness

According to a 2023 NASSCOM report, India ranks third globally in terms of the number of tech startups, yet only 20% successfully scale beyond the early stages. PwC India’s Emerging Tech Startup Challenge aims to improve these odds by offering structured mentorship and deep industry connections that startups can leverage for rapid growth.

Startups in sectors such as AI and blockchain are particularly well-positioned, with the Indian AI market projected to reach $7.8 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 20.2%, as per a PwC analysis. Blockchain applications, particularly in fintech, are also gaining traction, making this accelerator a timely intervention.

How to Apply For India's Emerging Tech Startup Challenge 2025

 Aspiring startups can apply by following these steps:

1. Download the “Startup Challenge Application Deck” – This document outlines key details and requirements.
2. Fill in the required business and technology details as per the format.
3. Submit the completed application via email to in_emerging_tech_startup_challenge@pwc.com.

The Future of Innovation in India

With corporate-backed accelerators like PwC India’s Emerging Tech Startup Challenge, the future of India’s startup ecosystem looks promising. By offering a robust platform for startups to refine their solutions, gain market traction, and scale effectively, PwC India is playing a crucial role in shaping the next generation of tech-driven enterprises.

As India cements its position as a global innovation hub, initiatives like these will be instrumental in fostering a dynamic ecosystem where startups are not just disruptors but long-term industry leaders.