India’s startup landscape has rapidly evolved into one of the most dynamic and robust ecosystems globally. India has celebrated this growth by hosting the second edition of Startup Mahakumbh from April 3 to 5, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The mega event has widely recognized the significant contribution of the startup ecosystem to the inclusive economic development of the country. It was aligned with the vision of ‘Startup India @ 2047—Unfolding the Bharat Story’, highlighting the role of innovation, digital transformation, and entrepreneurship in shaping India’s economic future.
Startup Mahakumbh 2025 witnessed participation from over 3,000 startups, nearly double the turnout from the previous year. These startups came from a wide spectrum of sectors including Artificial Intelligence, DeepTech & Cybersecurity, Health & BioTech, AgriTech, Climate Tech, FinTech, Gaming & Sports Tech, D2C, Mobility, B2B & Precision Manufacturing, and Defence & Space Tech. Their presence reflected the diversity, potential, and depth of India’s entrepreneurial talent pool.
It was organized by a consortium of leading industry bodies such as FICCI, ASSOCHAM, Nasscom, TiE, IVCA, and the Bootstrap Foundation, with support from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). It brought together more than 1,000 investors, along with incubators, and 10,000+ delegates from over 50 countries. It served as a powerful networking and collaboration platform for startups.
The key feature of the event was the Startup MahaRathi Challenge, aimed at identifying and accelerating India’s most promising startups. Thematic pavilions curated exhibitions, panel discussions, fireside chats, pitching sessions, and masterclasses, fostering cross-sectoral learning, knowledge exchange, and innovation sharing.
The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) also made a strong presence at the event, underlining the government’s commitment to integrating startups into the national economic fabric. By offering public procurement opportunities and exposure to national projects, GeM helped unlock new growth avenues for innovation-driven enterprises and digitally empowered businesses.
To honor excellence in entrepreneurship, the Startup Maharathi Awards were conferred, recognizing individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional impact, innovation, and leadership in the startup domain. Startup Mahakumbh not only celebrated India’s vibrant and resilient startup culture but also reinforced the nation’s growing stature as a global hub for innovation-led economic growth and technological progress.