The 9th Foundation Day of Startup India, celebrated in New Delhi, marked a significant milestone in India’s journey toward becoming a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship. Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, launched key initiatives, including the Bharat Startup Challenge, while emphasizing the transformative role of startups in shaping India’s economic and social landscape. The event highlighted India’s achievements in fostering a thriving startup ecosystem, empowering women entrepreneurs, and supporting Tier II and Tier III city startups.
The Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS), administered by SIDBI, played a pivotal role in mobilizing private capital, especially in Tier II and III cities. Startups have received total funding of ₹13 trillion from the government. The Bharat Startup Challenge features 75 challenges across diverse sectors like renewable energy, blockchain, agritech, and semiconductors.
It offers procurement opportunities, cash prizes, mentorship, and networking. India has become the world’s 3rd largest startup ecosystem with 1,59,157 startups as of January 2025, up from just 500 in 2016.
india’s startup milestone
In 2024 alone, 76 IPOs were launched, and startups have generated 17.2 lakh direct jobs. Partnerships with Private Equity (PE) and Venture Capital (VC) firms have brought global expertise and networks, accelerating the journey of startups from ideation to execution. With 43% of India’s STEM graduates being women, the Women Entrepreneurship Platform provides resources and opportunities for women-led startups.
The second edition of Startup Mahakumbh will begin in April, featuring 2,500 startups. It promises to showcase India’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit to the world. Beyond economic growth, startups are addressing critical issues in sustainability, renewable energy, healthcare, and digital transformation.
As India enters the Amrit Kaal (the next 25 years of development) with strong macroeconomic fundamentals, startups are envisioned as key drivers for a self-reliant, inclusive, and globally competitive India. The celebration underscored the collective commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship as critical pillars for India’s future growth and development.