Top Startup News Today: From Policy Push to Quantum Breakthroughs, Startups Lead the Next Growth Wave

India’s startup ecosystem is entering a defining phase — one powered by bold government interventions, global alliances, and deep-tech breakthroughs. From the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s ₹1 lakh crore R&D fund to state-led initiatives like Karnataka’s ₹518 crore Startup Policy, the momentum for innovation is unmistakable. Across the country, academic institutions, venture funds, and global corporations are joining forces to build a more inclusive, tech-driven, and investment-ready ecosystem. This week’s roundup captures the pulse of India’s evolving startup landscape — from quantum communication and indigenous chip design to student innovation challenges and new funding trends shaping the future of entrepreneurship.

Top Startup News Today

Hon’ble Prime Minister Unveils ₹1 Lakh Crore R&D Fund to Catalyze Private Sector Innovation

In a landmark move to strengthen India’s research and innovation ecosystem, Shri Narendra Modi, Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, launched a ₹1 lakh crore R&D fund aimed at boosting private sector-led research and development. The initiative seeks to catalyze innovation across industries by incentivizing private enterprises to invest in cutting-edge technologies and solutions. This fund is part of a broader strategy to position India as a global leader in innovation, reduce dependence on imported technologies, and foster indigenous capabilities. It aligns with the government’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and is expected to significantly enhance employment, competitiveness, and economic growth.

IIM Calcutta Innovation Park Partners with Assam Foundation to Strengthen Northeast Startup Ecosystem

IIM Calcutta Innovation Park (IIMCIP) signed an MoU with the Assam Innovation and Startup Foundation (AISF) to boost Assam’s startup ecosystem. The partnership, formalized under the Assam Startup Policy 2025, aims to provide structured mentoring, capacity building, and funding support to local entrepreneurs. IIMCIP, which has supported over 2,000 startups nationwide, will help AISF scale innovation across the state, with a special focus on women-led ventures. This collaboration marks a significant step in institutional support for inclusive entrepreneurship and economic development in the Northeast.

Chhattisgarh TechStart 2025: Catalyzing Innovation and Investment in Central India

Held in Raipur, TechStart 2025 showcased Chhattisgarh’s ambition to become Central India’s innovation hub. Organized by the Department of Commerce and Industries, the event offered incentives for IT and ITeS startups under the Industrial Development Policy 2024–30. With support from STPI and MeitY Startup Hub, it fostered investor– startup engagement and signed key partnerships for mentorship and global access. Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai emphasized the state’s role in advancing Digital India and Startup India.

Google Launches ‘Startup School’ for AI-First Enterprises in India

As part of its “Google for India” initiative, Google has launched Startup School: Prompt to Prototype, a two-week program for early-stage AI- first startups. Backed by MeitY Startup Hub, Startup India, IndiaAI Mission, and Nasscom, it offers hands-on training in generative AI tools like Gemini and Imagen. Participants receive a certificate and qualify for the ‘Build the Future’ showcase in January 2026. The initiative aims to equip Indian founders with practical AI prototyping skills to build globally competitive solutions.

India’s First Startup Park Inaugurated in Bengaluru to Empower 10,000 Entrepreneurs

Shri D.K. Shivakumar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, inaugurated India’s first fully integrated Startup Park in Bengaluru. Developed by Ique Ventures, the park is designed to support over 10,000 startups, create one lakh jobs, and attract ₹50,000 crore in investments by 2030. Located on Hosur Road, the facility offers incubation, mentorship, R&D labs, investor access, and co-working spaces. It also houses a Startup School and Innovation Lab. The initiative aims to build a unified entrepreneurial ecosystem and position Bengaluru as a global innovation hub.

Karnataka Unveils ₹518 Crore Startup Policy to Launch 25,000 Ventures by 2030

The Karnataka Cabinet approved the Startup Policy 2025–2030, allocating ₹518 crore to establish 25,000 startups, with 10,000 located beyond Bengaluru. The policy emphasizes DeepTech sectors like AI, quantum computing, and climate tech, and introduces initiatives such as Elevate NxT, Growth Labs, and an Alternate Investment Bridge to diversify funding. It also offers infrastructure grants, PF/ESI reimbursements, and cloud subsidies. The move aims to decentralize innovation, promote inclusive growth, and reinforce Karnataka’s leadership in India’s startup landscape.

WAVEX Opens Startup Booths for Waves Bazaar at IFFI Goa 2025

WAVEX, the startup accelerator arm of the World Audio-Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), has opened booth registrations for Waves Bazaar at IFFI Goa 2025. This initiative aims to spotlight over 100 creative startups from Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities in sectors like film, music, gaming, and digital content. Selected startups will showcase their innovations to global investors, tech giants like Meta and Google, and government agencies. WAVEX also launched challenges like Kala Setu and Bhasha Setu to promote AI-driven content in Indian languages. The platform is emerging as a launchpad for India’s creative economy.

Karnataka Government Becomes First Customer for Startups

At TechSparks 2025, Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for IT, BT, and RDPR, announced that the Karnataka government has positioned itself as the first customer for startups, actively procuring their products and solutions. This participatory approach ensures policies are co-created with stakeholders, fostering trust and innovation. The government’s initiatives—like the ₹1,000 crore Local Economic Acceleration Programme and ₹ 600 crore DeepTech Fund— aim to decentralize innovation beyond Bengaluru. With 28% women-led and 32% Tier II city startups supported under Elevate, Karnataka is building inclusive clusters and nano GCCs to become Asia’s DeepTech capital.

Ecosystem Development and Institutional Support

IIT Madras Launches ‘Startups for All’ Platform to Democratize Startup Data Access

IIT Madras has launched the “Startups for All” platform to bridge the information gap in India’s startup ecosystem. Developed by its Centre for Research on Start-ups and Risk Financing (CREST) in collaboration with YNOS, the platform offers verified data on over 2.75 lakh startups, 15,000 angel investors, 5,500 VC firms, and 110 government schemes. It aims to empower founders, students, and researchers with free initial access and micro-payment- based advanced tools. By addressing information asymmetry, the initiative fosters inclusive growth and supports decision-making for emerging entrepreneurs across India.

Turbostart Expands to Delhi-NCR to Accelerate North India’s Startup Growth

Turbostart, a Bengaluru- based VC fund and accelerator, has launched its new office in Delhi-NCR to deepen engagement with North India’s startup ecosystem. With over $35 million invested in 60+ startups, Turbostart offers funding, mentorship, and access to five Centers of Excellence. The Delhi hub will also anchor the rollout of Ken42, its AI-powered higher education platform, and tap into regional talent for product innovation. This strategic move reflects Turbostart’s commitment to inclusive, pan-India startup growth and its vision to support high-potential ventures across sectors.

Delhi University Launches Startup Scheme to Empower Student Entrepreneurs

Delhi University has launched a new initiative under its Innovation and Startup Scheme to help students start their own ventures. Supported by the Design Innovation Center at the Cluster Innovation Center (CIC), the program offers mentorship, financial assistance, and co-working spaces. UG and PG students under 30 can apply online by November 15, with final selections following a pitch round and interviews on November 24. Selected students will receive six months of mentoring and a certificate upon completion. The initiative aims to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among youth in academic settings.

JKEDI Launches Mentorship Program Under Startup Idea Challenge Across J&K

JKEDI has launched a two-day mentorship program under the JK Startup Idea Challenge, part of the J&K Startup Policy 2024– 2027. Held in districts like Srinagar, Udhampur, Kathua, and Banihal, the bootcamps encouraged students and aspiring founders to pitch ideas before expert panels. Shortlisted startups received guidance on planning, funding, and scaling. The initiative aims to decentralize startup activity and build a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem across the Union Territory.

KAN Demo Day Showcases Startup Innovation in Mysuru’s Emerging Tech Hub

Mysuru hosted the KAN Demo Day, a flagship event under the Karnataka Acceleration Network (KAN), spotlighting 18 high- potential startups across DeepTech, HealthTech, AgriTech, FinTech, and ClimateTech. Organized by SJCE- STEP and Jain Launchpad, and supported by the Karnataka government, KDEM, and Department of Electronics, IT&BT, the event aimed to decentralize innovation beyond Bengaluru. Startups pitched to top investors including Capital-A, 3One4 Capital, and The Chennai Angels. The initiative reflects Karnataka’s push to build tier-2 innovation clusters and empower over 300 startups statewide.

India’s First Climate Startup Incubator to Launch in Tiruchi with $93.98M Investment

TREC-STEP, Tiruchi’s pioneering science and technology park, is set to launch India’s first climate innovation incubation program, backed by a $93.98 million investment, including support from the UN’s Green Climate Fund (GCF). The initiative, titled BEACON INDIA, aims to incubate startups focused on climate adaptation—covering agriculture, water security, and coastal livelihoods. Managed by Tata Capital and SIDBI, the program will identify 1,000 ventures across Tamil Nadu, funding 50 high-impact startups. It will deploy blended finance and tap indigenous knowledge to build community resilience and reduce 1.08 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions.

Innovation and Product Spotlight

Hubballi’s ATS Startup Builds Intelligent Robots to Bridge Industry–Education Gap

Abhyudyaya Techno Solutions (ATS), a Hubballi-based startup, is pioneering intelligent robotics and edge AI applications across agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing. At the Bengaluru Skill Summit, ATS showcased three robots that drew significant attention. Founder Kumar Karamadi emphasized the startup’s mission to empower the future workforce by integrating real-time AI systems with hardware. ATS is setting up Centres of Excellence in AI and IoT to equip students with hands-on skills in machine learning, embedded systems, and generative AI. With a 26-member team, ATS is driving innovation while supporting technical institutes and industries in building scalable, skill-oriented tech solutions.

Cloudworx Wins ABB Startup Challenge India 2025 with AI-Powered Smart Drive Solution

ABB India, in partnership with Microsoft and SynerLeap, announced Cloudworx as the winner of the ABB Startup Challenge India 2025, selected from over 100 visionary startups. Cloudworx’s AI-powered 3D visualization tool simplifies motor and drive selection, commissioning, and troubleshooting. The Bengaluru-based startup will collaborate with ABB Motion’s Drive Products division to develop a market-ready solution aimed at improving energy efficiency and industrial automation. The winner receives a $30,000 project prize, mentoring, and a six-month SynerLeap membership. This initiative highlights the growing role of Indian startups in shaping next-gen industrial technologies.

India’s Quantum Leap: DST-Backed Startup Demonstrates 500 km Quantum-Safe Network

A major milestone in India’s quantum technology journey was achieved as QNu Labs, a startup supported under the National Quantum Mission (NQM), successfully demonstrated a 500 km quantum-safe network using Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). Deployed over existing optical fiber infrastructure with support from the Indian Army’s Southern Command, this marks India’s longest quantum-secure communication testbed. Announced at ESTIC 2025, the initiative reflects the synergy between research, industry, and defense under the STRIDE framework. It aligns with Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision for India to lead in emerging technologies and secure digital infrastructure.

Mindgrove: India’s Breakthrough in Indigenous Chip Design

Chennai-based startup Mindgrove Technologies, incubated at IIT Madras, has developed India’s first commercial-grade System-on-Chip (SoC) for IoT devices—marking a breakthrough in domestic chip design. Founded by Shashwath T. R. and Sharan Srinivas J., Mindgrove targets mid-tier embedded systems like smart locks and biometric readers. As a fabless firm, it partners with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) for fabrication and Bosch for co-development, validation, and global deployment. This innovation reduces India’s reliance on foreign chips and aligns with the Make-in-India mission. Their upcoming Vision SoC will power camera-based applications, expanding India’s deeptech capabilities.

TechSparks 2025 PhotoSparks: A Visual Celebration of Startup Innovation

YourStory’s TechSparks 2025, held in Bengaluru, celebrated India’s startup innovation through PhotoSparks, a visual showcase of bold ideas and diverse founders. With the theme India 2030: Powered by AI, the event featured startups like TiDB, Humn AI, Contineu, Vgenomics, and NeuroDiscovery AI, alongside sessions with investors and policymakers. The photo essay captured the energy and creativity driving India’s tech future, reinforcing TechSparks as a launchpad for transformative ventures and ecosystem collaboration.

Astrophel Aerospace Showcases Indigenous Cryogenic Pump at BRICS Summit

Pune-based Astrophel Aerospace showcased its indigenous cryogenic pump at the BRICS Innovation Summit in Moscow, marking a milestone for India’s private space sector. Validated by ISRO, the pump supports reusable rocket engines and industrial cryogenics. Founders Suyash Bafna and Immanuel Louis engaged global investors to explore exports. With a capital-efficient, Make-in-India approach, Astrophel is emerging as a key player in space propulsion and high-tech manufacturing.

Funding and Investment Trends

SEBI’s Pre-IPO Ban Squeezes Startup Funding and Valuations

SEBI’s recent ban on mutual funds participating in pre-IPO placements has disrupted a key funding channel for late-stage Indian startups. Previously, mutual funds like SBI and Kotak played a vital role in backing companies such as Lenskart and Nykaa, offering both capital and credibility. With this bridge now closed, startups face tighter funding, conservative valuations, and delayed deal closures. The void is expected to be filled by AIFs, family offices, and foreign investors, albeit with tougher terms. While SEBI aims to protect retail investors and ensure transparency, the move has intensified the funding squeeze for IPO-bound ventures.

Spacetech Startup ULOOK Raises ₹19 Crore to Advance RF Intelligence

Bengaluru-based spacetech startup ULOOK Technologies secured ₹19 crore in seed funding from growX Ventures and InfoEdge Ventures. ULOOK is developing autonomous satellite swarms for radio-frequency (RF) sensing and spectrum awareness, aiming to strengthen India’s technological sovereignty in space and security. Its proprietary payload suite, PulseTrack, enables real-time RF situational awareness across satellites, drones, and high- altitude platforms. The funding will accelerate product development and team expansion, positioning ULOOK as a key player in India’s deep-tech and space innovation landscape.

Indian Startups Raise $242.88M in Nov 03–08 Week Amid Valuation Compression

Entrackr’s weekly report reveals that 24 Indian startups raised a total of $242.88 million, marking a 27.6% decline from the previous week. The funding included 5 growth-stage and 17 early-stage deals, with notable rounds by MoEngage ($100M), Spacewood ($36M), and Miko ($10.5M). Early-stage highlights include Giga ($61M) and Zynk ($5M). Bengaluru led with 9 deals, followed by Delhi-NCR. Sectors like e-commerce and AI dominated, while spacetech startup Ulook also featured. The report reflects cautious investor sentiment amid tighter valuations and regulatory shifts.

From Around the World and Strategic Partnerships

Korea–China Startup Alliance Launched at APEC 2025 to Boost Cross-Border Innovation

Korea and China unveiled a landmark Innovation Startup Partnership Program during the APEC Leaders’ Summit in Gyeongju. The initiative, part of seven bilateral agreements signed by President Lee Jae-myung and President Xi Jinping, aims to foster joint R&D, talent exchange, and startup ecosystem connectivity. It marks the first state visit by a Chinese head of state to South Korea in 11 years and signals a strategic pivot from diplomacy to tech-driven cooperation. The alliance is expected to catalyze Asia-Pacific innovation and deepen economic ties between the two nations.

Thailand Unveils FoodTech Strategy to Become the “Kitchen of the World”

Thailand’s National Innovation Agency (NIA), under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, released the Thailand FoodTech Ecosystem Whitepaper 2025. Developed with BioBuddy, the paper outlines strategic insights to position Thailand as a global FoodTech leader. It highlights strengths like abundant natural resources, skilled talent, and ASEAN connectivity, while addressing challenges in value-added innovation. The initiative aims to build resilient, inclusive food systems through sustainable tech, aligning with global food security goals and Thailand’s ambition to be the “Kitchen of the World."

Nvidia, Qualcomm Join $1B India Deep Tech Investment Alliance

Corporate giants Nvidia, Qualcomm Ventures, and InfoEdge Ventures have joined the India Deep Tech Investment Alliance, a consortium of Indian and US investors backing early-stage deep tech startups. With over $850 million in new commitments, the alliance aims to support ventures in AI, semiconductors, space, robotics, and quantum computing. Nvidia will serve as a strategic advisor, offering technical guidance and policy input. This move follows the Indian government’s ₹1 lakh crore R&D initiative and reflects growing global interest in India’s innovation potential. The alliance seeks to address funding gaps and accelerate India's emergence as a deep tech hub.

Vietnam’s Startup Ecosystem Faces Legal, Capital, and Innovation Infrastructure Challenges

Despite ranking 5th in Southeast Asia’s startup index, Vietnam faces key challenges—unclear legal frameworks, limited domestic VC, and weak innovation infrastructure. Only 0.4% of its 940,000 enterprises are innovative startups, and venture funding has dropped sharply since 2021. Experts call for reforms in IP, AI infrastructure, and co-investment models to unlock Vietnam’s potential as a globally competitive startup nation.

Biban 2025: Riyadh Emerges as Global Hub for Startup Collaboration

Biban 2025 in Riyadh showcased Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global entrepreneurship, attracting startups from over 150 countries. Indian startups made a strong mark with a dedicated pavilion inaugurated by Shri Dr. Suhail Ajaz Khan, Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, highlighting India–Saudi innovation ties. South Korea also debuted its largest K-Startup Pavilion, with 31 firms and a strategic MoU signed to deepen bilateral startup collaboration. The forum concluded with over $10.1 billion in agreements, 10,000+ investment opportunities, and the Entrepreneurship World Cup finals. Biban 2025 exemplifies Saudi Arabia’s commitment to ecosystem development under Vision 2030.

India’s Startup Magnetism: Singapore & Canada Founders Eye Expansion Amid Policy Push

Startups from Singapore and Canada are increasingly looking to expand into India, drawn by its vast market, rapid economic growth, and supportive government policies. At EPIC 2025, a global pitch event, founders from NEU Battery Materials, Belli, and KA Imaging highlighted India’s potential in sectors like EVs, air cargo, and medical technology. They cited India’s policy momentum and funding initiatives as key enablers. The event showcased India’s growing appeal as a destination for global innovation and strategic partnerships, reinforcing its position as a hub for cross-border startup expansion and collaboration.

Sanchi Connect & Informa Markets Unite to Globalize Indian Clean Energy Startups

At the REI Expo 2025, Sanchi Connect and Informa Markets launched India’s first Startup Pavilion and Investor Lounge, empowering clean energy startups with global access. From over 250 applications, 35 startups were selected to showcase innovations in battery tech, renewables, and climate solutions. The initiative facilitated hundreds of investor interactions and business leads, positioning India’s deep-tech ventures for international scale. Sanchi Connect plans to replicate this model in the UAE, Africa, and Southeast Asia, focusing on clean energy, mobility, and health. The partnership marks a pivotal step in globalizing India’s sustainability -driven startup ecosystem.

Korea’s Regional Zone Reform: A Performance-Driven Shift in Innovation Policy

South Korea has unveiled a major reform of its Regional Specialized Development Zone policy, marking the most significant overhaul in 20 years. Led by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups (MSS), the initiative introduces a performance- based model that ties government support to measurable outcomes. The zones are now classified into three types—High Value-Added, Convergence Innovation, and Challenge & Leap—each tailored to local industry potential. The reform emphasizes private-sector participation, legal accountability, and regional collaboration. This shift aims to decentralize innovation, reduce Seoul-centric growth, and build a truly national startup ecosystem rooted in regional strengths and scalable entrepreneurship.

Active Startup India Challenges and Competitions

SmartIDEAThon 2025: Igniting Student Innovation for a Sustainable India

SmartIDEAThon 2025, GITAM’s national student pitching competition, empowers young innovators—especially from Tier 2/3 cities— to tackle India’s societal and environmental challenges. Open to students and recent graduates, it offers mentorship, venture coaching, cash prizes, and global exposure. Finalists will compete in Visakhapatnam, presenting ideas across themes like climate action, grassroots innovation, DPI, AI for Bharat, and livelihoods. Winners receive funding, development support, and a Boston startup immersion trip, fostering inclusive, frugal, and tech-enabled entrepreneurship.

COMEUP Global Startup Festival 2025 Opens Applications for Indian Startups

Hosted by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, Republic of Korea, the COMEUP Global Startup Festival is one of Asia’s largest startup events, taking place from 10–12 December 2025 at COEX, Seoul. The summit will convene startups, investors, and corporates from Korea and around the world. Indian startups can apply if they are DPIIT- recognized, travel-ready, and have a clear Korean market expansion vision. The program is sector agnostic and open to startups across all stages—from ideation to scaling. Travel and accommodation costs are to be borne by the startups.

iCreate Drone Challenge 2025 Launched to Set New Global Benchmarks in Drone Innovation

The iCreate Drone Challenge aims to unlock India’s potential in drone technology by supporting innovations across micro to large drone types and fuel systems. Focused on performance, affordability, and component indigenisation, the initiative seeks to identify and accelerate breakthrough solutions from India’s brightest minds.

Thermo Fisher Launches BioVerse Challenge to Accelerate India’s Biotech Startups

Thermo Fisher Scientific has unveiled the BioVerse Challenge 2025 to fast-track biotech innovation in India. Targeting early and growth-stage startups in biologics, medtech, agri-biotech, and green biotech, the program offers access to advanced technologies, mentorship, and skill-building. Up to 20 startups will be selected as Trailblazers, gaining full access to Thermo Fisher’s India facilities, while 50 Rising Stars will receive expert guidance and collaboration opportunities. The initiative aims to strengthen India’s bioeconomy by supporting scalable, market-aligned biotech solutions. Applications are open until 31 January 2026.

Brandworks Concept to Commercialisation Challenge 2025

Brandworks has launched the Concept to Commercialisation Challenge 2025 to support DPIIT-recognized electronics hardware startups. Focus areas include AR/VR, automotive, IoT, and renewable energy. Up to 15 startups will receive ₹3 lakh each, plus access to production infrastructure, mentorship, and market networks. Applications close on 26 November 2025.

CIMSME Fintech Challenge

The Chamber of Indian Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (CIMSME) launched the Fintech Challenge to discover scalable solutions that help startups and MSMEs prepare bankable business project reports and financial projections. DPIIT-registered startups and Udyam-certified MSMEs can apply by 28 February 2026. The challenge addresses expert support gaps and high rejection rates due to poor financial documentation. Top 25 applicants will receive incubation, mentorship, marketing assistance, and podcast features. Additionally, 100 startups/MSMEs will get IPR support. The challenge includes idea submission and pitch deck evaluation stages. Application end date is 28th Feb 2026.

As India cements its place as one of the world’s most dynamic innovation economies, the synergy between government vision, private capital, and grassroots entrepreneurship has never been stronger. With policies unlocking R&D potential, corporates betting big on DeepTech, and states competing to nurture new hubs, the country’s startup story is no longer confined to Bengaluru or Delhi—it’s going national, even global. From Tiruchi’s climate incubator to Bengaluru’s Startup Park and IIT Madras’s data democratization drive, India’s innovation narrative is accelerating toward a future defined by sustainability, inclusion, and technological sovereignty.