Meet DeepTek.ai: The AI Startup That’s Transforming How Doctors Read Scans

Meet DeepTek.ai: The AI Startup That’s Transforming How Doctors Read Scans

In 2017, DeepTek.ai was born out of a realization by visionary founders Ajit Patil and Dr. Amit Kharat that the field of radiology was facing a critical challenge – an increasing number of scans surpassing the capacity of radiologists.

Founders (Mr Ajit Patil and Dr. Amit Kharat)
Founders (Mr Ajit Patil and Dr. Amit Kharat)

The inspiration to dive into this field came from a conversation with Tsyoshi Kitani, CTO of NTT Data, which sparked the idea of leveraging AI to augment radiologists’ capabilities. So Ajit Patil, alongside Dr. Amit Kharat and data scientist Aniruddha Pant, delved into researching and exploring possibilities in the radiology AI space.

Ajit Patil (Co-founder of DeepTek.ai )
Ajit Patil
(Co-founder of DeepTek.ai )
Dr. Amit Kharat (Co-founder DeepTek.ai)
Dr. Amit Kharat
(Co-founder DeepTek.ai)

The early days were challenging, and after a visit to the U.S. to understand the landscape and challenges faced by other companies in the field, they nearly abandoned the idea. However, the breakthrough came with the concept of the “expert in loop” model – a unique approach aimed at augmenting, not replacing, radiologists.

Ajit Patil says, “In 2017, I was talking to Tsuyoshi Kitani, then CTO of NTT Data. He mentioned that they were interested in AI in radiology. They had a product in the US that was used in 1,000 hospitals there. In AI, data is the oil, and without data, you cannot do AI. Kitani said they had the data and wanted to explore something in this space, and if I could do something, they would look at it. I started researching. I met almost 30 to 40 people, including industry experts, educational experts, AI experts, and radiologists.” Thus, the “expert in loop” model sparked enthusiasm and laid the foundation for DeepTek.ai.

In 2018, they began working on the model, and by the following year, NTT DATA showed interest and decided to invest in their vision. Mitsui and Nobori, strategic investors, joined the journey, and DeepTek adopted a commercial adoption strategy, focusing on X-rays and identifying 20 pathologies automatically. 

The “expert in the loop” model attracted 120 hospitals and imaging centers in Maharashtra as paying customers, leading to further expansion into international markets, including Japan, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Africa.

DeepTek.ai’s commitment to innovation is evident through the seven patents defining unique processes for creating value. We acknowledge the challenges in creating AI models for diverse hospital datasets and ensuring robust integration into existing workflows. Each hospital’s data is unique, and customization is crucial for success. Our models need to be robust and seamlessly integrated to ensure widespread adoption.

DeepTek.ai

Fast forward to the present, and DeepTek.ai has achieved a significant milestone – the clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for our revolutionary chest X-ray AI solution, CXR Analyser. This advanced technology utilizes deep learning algorithms to detect abnormalities in chest X-rays, aiding clinicians in making precise interpretations. Simultaneously, we maintain our focus on the APAC region, with recent deployments in Singapore and plans to broaden our impact across Southeast Asia.

DeepTek.ai

Our strategies include close collaborations with renowned entities like Shimadzu and BJC Healthcare, aiming to extend our services to leading hospitals in Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, and beyond. We are also intensifying efforts in the U.S. market through partnerships with NTT Data and Shimadzu, aiming to provide Augmento AI and Augmento X-ray solutions to leading hospitals in the United States.

In the beginning, DeepTek.ai started with the founder’s funds. Later, we got funded by NTT Data, a software company, to help scale our operations to the next level. Recently, we also received Series A funding of $10 million from Tata Capital Healthcare Fund II, Pentathlon Ventures, and GHV. This funding enabled us to invest further in global outreach and secure important regulatory approvals.

Our journey marked the early stages of innovation in the radiology AI industry. Challenges have been addressed, milestones have been achieved, and the path forward is marked by continued innovation and value creation. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqOUVL1eUpQ

DeepTek’s AI solutions have already made a significant impact in India and the Asia-Pacific region, transforming healthcare by increasing access to quality care at a lower cost.

The company’s products are deployed in over 500 hospitals and imaging centers, impacting the lives of over a million individuals every year. In Singapore, DeepTek’s US FDA-approved platform, Augmento Enterprise, has been chosen as the national radiology AI platform, contributing to improved productivity and quality of care across public hospitals. 

With its operations in Pune, DeepTek.ai has about 200 members and partners like TATA Capital, NTT DATA Japan, and Shimadzu Asia Pacific. 

DeepTek.ai envisions a future where radiology AI transforms healthcare, has a positive impact on patient care, and, most importantly, makes healthcare accessible to all.

Company’s Online Platform

https://www.deeptek.ai

Organization Logo :

Organization Augmento App:

https://mobile.deeptek.ai/#

Organization Email ID

Email ID: finance.legal@deeptek.com

From Cubicles to Cafes: GoFloaters Powers India’s Work-from-Anywhere Revolution

GoFloaters Founders

GoFloaters: The Concept & Creation

I (Shyam Sundar Nagarajan) started GoFloaters in late 2017. The idea came to me after personally experiencing the challenges of finding suitable, affordable workspaces while working as a consultant. I often found myself hopping from one coffee shop to another, dealing with inconsistent Wi-Fi, lack of power outlets, and the general inconvenience of not having a dedicated workspace. This experience led me to ponder over the possibility of creating a solution that could benefit freelancers, remote workers, and startups who face similar challenges.

Recognizing the growing trend of gig economy and remote work, I saw an opportunity to create a platform that could offer flexible, cost-effective workspace solutions. I envisioned GoFloaters as a way to utilize underused spaces in cafes, restaurants, and hotels, turning them into productive work environments during their off-peak hours. This would not only provide workers with more options but also help these establishments generate additional revenue. 

“The fundamental ethos of GoFloaters is to build an alternative version of office that will be flexible, on-demand, and accessible on the go.”

So, with a clear vision and a desire to address this gap in the market, I embarked on the journey of establishing GoFloaters. We started by partnering with a few spaces in Chennai, and gradually expanded our network. Our aim was to create a community-driven platform that not only provided spaces to work but also fostered collaboration and networking among the users.

Our Team and Milestones

Shyam Sundar Nagarajan :
Founder and CEO (GoFloaters)
Srivatsan Padmanabhan :
Co-Founder and COO (GoFloaters)

As the founder of GoFloaters, I, Shyam Sundar, began this journey with a clear vision of providing flexible, affordable workspace solutions for freelancers, remote workers, and startups. Along with me, my co-founder Srivatsan Padmanabhan joined the mission, bringing his expertise and shared enthusiasm for the concept. Srivatsan and I have known each other for years, and our complementary skills and shared vision for the future of work made us a strong founding team.

Our journey started in Chennai, with just a few spaces onboarded onto our platform. One of our earliest milestones was the successful expansion of our network beyond Chennai, reaching into other major cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Pune. This expansion was crucial in demonstrating the scalability and demand for our services.

Another significant milestone was the development and launch of our mobile app, which made it easier for users to discover and book spaces. This technological advancement was a game changer, allowing us to reach a wider audience and offer a more seamless user experience.

GoFloaters Team
GoFloaters Team

As we grew, we focused not just on expanding our space network, but also on building a community. We organized events and meetups for our users, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. This aspect of GoFloaters was particularly fulfilling, as it went beyond just providing physical spaces – it was about creating a support system for independent professionals and entrepreneurs.

A major highlight in our journey was when we secured our first round of funding. This was a testament to the faith investors had in our business model and our vision. The funding enabled us to accelerate our growth, invest in technology, and strengthen our team. Another highlight was our bounce-back approach after COVID-19, as the industry underwent a major overhaul. 

Throughout our journey, our team has been the backbone of GoFloaters. We’ve grown from a small team to a larger, more diverse group of passionate individuals, each bringing their unique skills and perspectives to the table. This growth and development of our team have been instrumental in helping us adapt, innovate, and continuously improve our offerings.

Turning Points:

Throughout our journey with GoFloaters, we’ve faced several challenges, each of which has been a learning opportunity and a chance to grow stronger.

One of the initial challenges was convincing space owners to partner with us. Many were skeptical about the concept and its benefits. We overcame this by demonstrating the value proposition clearly – showcasing how their underutilized spaces could become revenue-generating assets without disrupting their regular business.

Another significant challenge was building trust with our users. In the early days, freelancers and remote workers were still warming up to the idea of using shared workspaces. To address this, we focused on delivering consistent, high-quality experiences and actively sought feedback to continuously improve our services.

The COVID-19 pandemic was perhaps the most unprecedented challenge we faced. The demand for physical workspaces plummeted as lockdowns and social distancing norms were implemented. We quickly adapted by offering virtual office solutions and expanding our services to include virtual addresses and mail handling, helping businesses maintain their operations remotely.

However, something exceptional also happened. 

  1. We were able to repurpose our meeting room booking system into a hospital bed booking system. 
  2. The technology we built helped thousands of patients get access to ICU beds or oxygen cylinders. 
  3. As the demand for beds settled, we further repurposed the technology for people to book vaccination slots in partnership with Greater Chennai Corporation. 

“2 lakh vaccines administered at 0% downtime! This was truly gratifying.”

Now, as we navigate the post-pandemic world, we’re focusing on the evolving needs of the workforce. We’ve launched WorqFlexi, a new solution that caters to the hybrid work model. Recognizing that businesses and individuals are looking for even more flexibility, WorqFlexi offers a range of workspace solutions that can be tailored to different needs – whether it’s for a day, a week, or longer.

“Adaptation & experimentation were instrumental in shaping our offerings. Answer questions than just providing solutions.” 

WorqFlexi is designed to be a versatile solution, accommodating the varying requirements of today’s dynamic work environment. It includes options for private offices, meeting rooms, and even event spaces, all available on-demand. This flexibility is key in a time when the concept of a ‘workplace’ is being redefined.

Our focus now is on expanding WorqFlexi and continuing to innovate in line with the changing landscape of work. We’re committed to providing solutions that are not just about spaces, but about empowering businesses and individuals to work in ways that best suit their needs and aspirations. In the dilemma between return to office and remote work, GoFloaters has been tackling the challenge with the promising, one-of-its-kind solution – WorqFlexi. 

Take a look at how it works:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mgEzrmbb7VQ

The Next Chapter of Work

We have been used a range of marketing approaches to tap startups and offer custom solutions. On the other hand, we are also opening up partner channels to offer enterprise solution and widen the offering. However, the future of work still leans in support of flexibility. There is no dearth for opportunities in the market.

Way forward, we are looking to serve more number of businesses and also offer solutions in other countries to aid WorqFlexi clients. Another plan is to expand our presence in India thereby becoming a unified hybrid work solution across the enterprise and solving every potential issue that can arise. 

In today’s dynamic work environment, flexibility is key. GoFloaters offers a variety of workspaces on-demand, catering to different needs – whether it’s a quiet corner for a day of deep work, a meeting room for client discussions, or a larger space for team collaborations. This flexibility allows individuals and businesses to choose workspaces that best fit their requirements, without the commitment and overheads of traditional office leases. Onwards and upwards to maximize flexibility in the future of work landscape!

Contact Information

Home page: https://gofloaters.com/

WorqFlexi: https://gofloaters.com/worqflexi/

Site: https://gofloaters.com/

Apps: 

For B2C: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.gofloaters.app&hl=en_US&gl=US

For B2C: WorqFlexi: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.gofloaters.rn.app

Social channels: 

https://in.linkedin.com/company/gofloaters

https://www.youtube.com/@GoFloaters

https://www.facebook.com/gofloatersindia

No More Card Swipes: How Anuj Kacker’s Freo is Building India’s Credit-First Digital Bank

Freo founder Anuj Kacker

Introduction: 

Today, smartphones are replacing everything from notebooks to wallets. Digital banking is the new way of managing money, elevating fintech startups to the next level by offering a credit-first digital bank. Unlike traditional banks with physical infrastructure, digital banks operate entirely online. These online banks provide services like loans and savings accounts with just a single touch on the screen.

The new wave of fintech startups is reshaping the way we manage and use money, and at the forefront of this revolution is the startup founded by Anuj Kacker, Freo. The company aims to redefine banking with a “credit-first” approach. In this article, we’ll learn what this approach means, how Freo challenges traditional banking, and its contribution to building India’s credit-first digital bank.  

What sets Freo apart?

Freo has millions of users signing up every month, especially the younger generation who like to live on their phones. The application not only provides convenience but also helps those with no credit history to build a financial future. 

Freo doesn’t ask users to open savings accounts; instead, it allows customers to create a credit line in minutes. Freo uses algorithms and data analysis to search transaction patterns and social media habits. This helps the app to decide if an individual is creditworthy, even if they have never had a credit card before. 

Freo stands out from others in its feature that allows you to link your credit line to a UPI ID, replacing the need for a card on smartphones. The app also provides savings accounts with good interest rates, insurance, and fixed deposits. Its features, like an easy-to-use interface, budgeting tools, and guidance to manage money, make Freo different from other applications. 

Anuj Kacker: Early life and education

Anuj completed his studies in Mumbai and enrolled at St. Xavier’s College to study mathematics. After that, he got interested in business and enrolled for an MBA course at the Indian School of Business in Hyderabad. From there, he got curious about how he could use technology to solve real-world problems. 

He noticed a gap in the Indian financial system; millions of people were struggling to access credit because traditional banks were slow, with heavy paperwork and lots of procedures involved. This sparked the idea about digital banking, but before reaching there, Anuj worked in the advertising world. Let’s see what led him from creative advertising to the fintech sector.  

The birth of Freo: Credit lines to a digital banking powerhouse

Before starting his own business, Anuj worked with some top companies, where he learned how to build brands and craft compelling stories. These experiences helped him learn more about customer experience, and he was able to figure out that a great product needs a user-friendly interface, as well as what the market needs, when he transitioned to fintech. In 2015, Anuj launched MoneyTap, a mobile application to offer on-demand credit lines to working professionals.

MoneyTap was a success with millions of users across India. The founding members then decided to expand their vision, and in 2020, Anju launched Freo with a bold vision of making credit simple, fast, and accessible to everyone. It targeted the youth and tech-savvy people in smaller cities of India. Anuj noticed that traditional banks rejected people for not having a credit history, or people gave up due to the long process. 

He then tried to tackle this problem with technology and created Freo as a digital bank that starts with credit. Freo uses India’s digital payment system, the Unified Payment Interface (UPI), to make seamless and secure transactions. That’s how Freo was born to redefine the old way of banking. 

Struggles and solutions

Building Freo was not easy; there were several obstacles, like financial regulations and security.  India has strict rules for financial startups that every startup needs to comply with fully. The team had to invest days collaborating with regulators to decode legal requirements and ensure they met every standard. 

Fintech startups were in a boom, and Freo needed an edge to compete in the market. That’s when Anuj leaned towards the credit-first model and UPI integration, making Freo different from others in the same industry. 

Cyber threats and privacy breaches were another challenge as Freo was a fintech startup that couldn’t afford slip-ups. To solve this, Anuj set up a cybersecurity team for encryption and fraud prevention. 

Why does the credit-first model matter?

Traditional banks follow a savings-first approach, which requires customers to open an account and deposit cash to get credit. Sometimes, they may not even get credit after all that, which is a huge issue in India. Freo’s credit-first model uses smart technology to offer quick funds and bypass traditional barriers like long waiting times. Anuj highlighted that credit is the gateway to financial freedom, and by making it accessible to others, Freo offers them opportunities. 

FAQs:

What is Freo (formerly MoneyTap) and how is it different from other digital banks?


Freo is India’s first credit‑led neobank, built around flexible credit lines instead of just payments or savings. It offers seamless borrowing, savings, and payment products—all anchored by its core lending service.

Who founded Freo and what problems did they solve?


Freo was co-founded by Anuj Kacker, Kunal Varma, and Bala Parthasarathy in 2015, tackling limited digital credit access by launching India’s first personal credit‑line platform via the MoneyTap app.

How does Freo’s credit-first model benefit users?


By prioritizing credit, Freo enables instant access to loans, BNPL, and credit cards, streamlining financial flexibility while building users’ credit profiles through responsible usage.

What are Freo’s main products and features in 2025?


Freo now offers Freo Credit (personal credit line), Freo Save (credit‑building savings account via Equitas SFB), Freo Pay (QR‑BNPL and bills), and has launched digital cards, UPI credit, insurance, and wealth services.

Is Freo safe to use and how does it handle security/fraud risks?


A: Yes. Freo protects users by never requesting bank PINs or OTPs, warning against fraudulent UPI requests, and using secure authentication. It communicates only via its official email (hello@moneytap.com).


Who is eligible for Freo and what documentation is required?


Freo’s eligibility is based on credit score, income, and KYC verification. To apply, users need PAN, Aadhaar, income proof, and bank statements. A partner savings account (with Equitas SFB) is required for Freo Save.

How Kaushik Mudda’s Ethereal Machines is Giving India a Global Edge in Precision Manufacturing

Kaushik Mudda Ethereal Machines

Introduction: 

Precision manufacturing is key to modern industry. It makes sure that everything from airplane parts to tiny pieces in your phone fits and works just right. Even a tiny mistake can lead to big safety and reliability issues, especially in fields like aerospace, cars, and electronics. Now, let’s explore Ethereal Machines, an Indian startup that’s making a strong impact in precision manufacturing. This company has transformed how India competes globally by developing smarter tools and solutions for producing high-quality products. In this article, we’ll examine how Ethereal Machines, under Kaushik’s leadership, is helping India stand out worldwide, its growth, and its influence on the Indian startup scene.

Journey of Ethereal Machines: 

Ethereal Machines was born from a simple idea of making precision manufacturing easier and affordable for Indian businesses. The startup was introduced in 2014 after Kaushik Mudda saw a problem and realized that Indian manufacturers needed a boost. Many small and medium-sized companies were stuck with old tools that couldn’t keep up with global competitors. These manufacturers were not able to have advanced machines due to high prices, and Mudda decided to fix that. 

He then thought of developing tools that are both affordable and precise. This sparked an idea and led to the birth of Ethernal Machines. The company started by developing Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines. They are tools guided by computers to cut and shape materials like metal and plastic with precise accuracy. Ethereal aimed to make India a leader in the manufacturing industry.

Overcoming struggles 

Starting a company like Ethereal Machines was not easy, especially when it was the first of its kind in India. Kaushik Mudda had to take some challenges to reach this level of success. The biggest problem was money; building high-tech machines requires a lot of cash, and convincing investors to back a new name in industry is the biggest challenge. 

Mudda mentioned that he had to explain what CNC stands for; investors even used to ask them about precedents or market studies, but there was no precedent cause nobody had done this in India before. Even without investors, he didn’t give up and spent long hours pitching his ideas.  With time, he gained believers in his vision and slowly funding came, allowing the company to start operations.

However, finding skilled workers was another hurdle. Precision manufacturing needs top talent, but this was never attempted in India before, so there was no talent to recruit. Ethereal tackled this problem by teaming up with universities and offering training programs with hands-on experience to build a strong, skilled, and loyal team.

With growing demand and customer base for their machines, Ethereal faced a scaling challenge. They had to figure out a way to grow production without letting quality slip. They built their own workshops and streamlined their supply chain. This move turned them from a small startup to a serious player.

Pivot to a service-first business model

Even though Ethereal created its five-axis machines at almost half the price of global competitors, they were not able to sell them due to trust issues. Kaushik said that even if people see it working perfectly fine, they would say an Indian company can’t create a multi-axis CNC Machine and it won’t work. They were yet again hit with another challenge as people were making impossible terms like paying only for a year.

While trying to find a solution to this problem, Kaushik had an idea of a service-first approach. The company then pivoted and, instead of selling machines, started to provide precision manufacturing as a service. Ethereal used their own machines to create parts and deliver quality products without customers having to invest in expensive equipment. The desperate pivot attempt to save the startup came as the turning point. It turned Ethereal Machines into a partner for innovation while helping smaller players compete with bigger businesses. 

Impact on India’s startup ecosystem 

Ethereal Machines has put India on the map by taking on the big players in precision manufacturing. They’ve created jobs and inspired other dreamers to take risks and think big. Their approach is a game-changer for small businesses and startups, giving them access to top-notch tools at an affordable price. Ethereal Machines boosts innovation and growth, while strengthening India’s economy. 

What makes Ethereal Machines special?

What sets Ethereal Machines apart from other average manufacturing companies is its software, which helps machines work smarter. This was a boon for industries like medical devices and aerospace. These custom programs can spot and fix mistakes before they happen. 

They also enhance designs by learning from previous ones to improvise the next one and get better over time. The software ensures that everything comes out perfect. Ethereal Machines combines its traditional CNC machine technique with 3D printing to create more precise and cost-effective parts.

The thing that makes Ethereal different from others is its Computer Numerical Control machines. These are multi-axis machines, which means that they can move in multiple directions at once. This feature allows them to craft complex shapes and cut them with incredible accuracy that simpler machines can’t handle.

FAQs:

Who are the founders of Ethereal Machines and how did they start?


Ethereal Machines was co‑founded by Kaushik Mudda and Navin Jain in Bengaluru after building their first CNC machine in 2015 using ₹1.75 lakhs and robotics competition winnings. Their dorm‑room project evolved into India’s first 5‑axis CNC startup.

What are the key innovations of Nimbus, Ethereal Machines’ 5‑axis CNC system?


Nimbus achieves ±4 µm linear and 5 arc‑second rotary accuracy with closed‑loop feedback on all axes, allowing it to machine aluminium, titanium, Inconel, copper and more within single-cell lights‑out setups.

Why did Ethereal pivot to Manufacturing-as-a-Service (MaaS)?


The founders discovered early reluctance from buyers to purchase expensive machines. By offering precision parts on demand via MaaS, they lowered entry barriers and built trust through consistent quality delivery.

Which industries does Ethereal Machines serve, and to which markets?


Ethereal serves high‑tolerance sectors including aerospace, healthcare, electronics, and EV components, exporting to global customers in the U.S., Europe, Israel and India.

What support and traction has Ethereal generated through funding and scale?


In June 2024, Ethereal raised $13 M Series A led by Peak XV and Steadview. Since then, they’ve expanded from 7 to over 60 machines across a 55,000 sq ft facility, with revenue growing fivefold. A ~250,000 sq ft factory is in development.

How does Ethereal guarantee consistency, traceability, and quality in production?

Nimbus logs every operation and prints QC-certified performance reports. Each pass is traceable, eliminating subcontractor variability and ensuring repeatable accuracy directly under one roof.

From ₹50 crore Funding to a Global EdTech Force: The AdmitKard Journey in 40+ Countries

AdmitKard edtech startup journey from ₹50 crore funding to global presence in 40+ countries

Quick Overview

Company NameAdmitKard
FoundersPiyush Bhartiya and Rachit Agrawal
Website Urlhttps://www.admitkard.com/
Year of Establishment2016
Industry TypeEdtech Indusrty
Funding Raised in 2023Rs 50 Crore
Total no. of Universities associated4K+
Total no. of Countries served40+
The Real Purpose of this PlatformHelping students navigate the complexities of studying abroad

Hello there! We are AdmitKard, and we are not just your average edtech startup. We are on a mission to revolutionize study abroad admissions and make dreams come true for students worldwide. Founded in 2016 by two passionate minds from IIT-IIM, Piyush Bhartiya and Rachit Agrawal, our journey has been dedicated, innovative, and empowering.

Mr. Piyush Bhartiya: Co-Founder at Admitkard
Mr. Piyush Bhartiya: Co-Founder at Admitkard
Mr. Rachit Agrawal: Co-founder at Admitkard
Mr. Rachit Agrawal: Co-founder at Admitkard

Our Journey: From Idea to Launch

It all started in 2016 when we identified a significant gap in the college admissions process while running our previous startup, LifePad. We realized that many students aspired to study abroad but lacked proper guidance and information. That’s when we decided to create AdmitKard, a one-stop solution to help students navigate the complexities of studying abroad.

Left To Right (Mr. Rachit Agrawal and Mr. Piyush Bhartiya, Co-founders of Admitkard)
Left To Right (Mr. Rachit Agrawal and Mr. Piyush Bhartiya, Co-founders of Admitkard)

Inspiration Behind AdmitKard

Interacting with students and young professionals at LifePad was an eye-opening experience for us. We discovered that many faced challenges in pursuing their desired careers due to a skill gap. This revelation became the driving force behind AdmitKard. We wanted to provide comprehensive study abroad assistance to bridge the information gap and help students achieve their dreams.

AdmitKard’s Founding Team & Mission

At AdmitKard, we take pride in being an edtech startup based in Noida, India. Our founding members, Piyush Bhartiya and Rachit Agrawal, are alumni of IIT-IIM and serial entrepreneurs. Their shared vision to simplify study abroad admissions and mentor students throughout the process has been the key to our success.

From Startup to Full-Stack EdTech Platform

Our journey began in early 2017 when we launched our platform, aiming to revolutionize study-abroad admissions. As students flocked to the platform seeking guidance on university applications, courses, SOPs, and more, we realized the need to become an end-to-end solution. We wanted to understand the admission processes of universities worldwide. Thus, AdmitKard evolved to offer a DIY approach but soon recognized the importance of expert guidance.

This realization led to the introduction of our peer mentoring marketplace, connecting aspirants with career counselors and “near peers” – other students already studying in their desired universities. This unique approach was a game-changer, and our platform rapidly expanded. We developed a 26-point decision-making framework, utilizing AI-led guidance mechanisms to streamline the admission process. Our innovation was so remarkable that we filed a patent for our revolutionary solution.

Growth Roadmap: AdmitKard’s Next-Level Expansion

At AdmitKard, we have an unwavering vision to become the global go-to platform for study abroad admissions. Our journey has been marked by innovation, dedication, and a solid commitment to empowering students to achieve their dreams of studying abroad. As we look ahead, we have exciting plans to expand and enhance our services to cater to the evolving needs of our users.

One of our primary focuses is to broaden our product portfolio beyond admissions. While helping students with university applications has been our forte, we understand that the study abroad journey involves much more than that. We aim to provide comprehensive support to students throughout their educational journey, from securing financing and scholarships to finding suitable accommodations and addressing any challenges they may encounter.

To achieve this, we will leverage technology and data-driven insights to introduce new services and features that add value to our users’ experiences. We are constantly exploring ways to make the study abroad process as seamless as possible, ensuring that students have access to all the information and support they need at their fingertips.

Our expansion plans also involve reaching out to new markets and penetrating deeper into the country. With our presence established in about 70 cities, we aim to widen our reach to approximately 200-250 cities. By reaching out to more students across diverse regions, we hope to make a meaningful impact on the lives of aspiring scholars and their families.

Admitkard Team
Admitkard Team

What Makes AdmitKard Unique

At AdmitKard, what sets us apart is our holistic approach to study abroad admissions. We don’t just rely on data; we understand that making decisions about one’s education and future is a deeply personal and significant undertaking. Therefore, we have built a unique intelligent match-making layer that combines data-driven insights with personalized guidance from our community of Mentors and current international students.

This fusion of cutting-edge technology and authentic human experiences enables us to provide students with the assurance and confidence they need to make informed choices. Our Mentors share their first-hand experiences, guiding students through every step of the process, from selecting the right course and university to adjusting to life in a new country.

With the guidance of our Mentors, students gain valuable insights into university life, culture, and day-to-day experiences, allowing them to make more informed decisions. This human touch sets us apart from traditional counseling methods, making the study abroad journey more relatable and reassuring for our users.

In addition to our unique Mentoring program, our commitment to an end-to-end solution further reinforces our USP. We believe that students should find all the support they need in one place from the moment they decide to study abroad until they step foot on campus. By offering a wide range of services, such as financing options, scholarships, and accommodation assistance, we strive to make the entire process hassle-free and enjoyable for our students.

In conclusion, our future growth plans revolve around expanding our offerings and reach to empower more students to pursue their dreams of global education. Our USP lies in our intelligent match-making layer, driven by data and complemented by the human touch of our Mentors. With AdmitKard by their side, students can confidently embark on their study abroad journey, knowing that they have a reliable partner guiding them every step of the way.

Conclusion

Our remarkable journey is a testament to the power of innovative ideas and dedicated founders. With a strong focus on personalized guidance, comprehensive services, and leveraging technology, AdmitKard has emerged as a leading player in the edtech space. As we continue to grow and scale, we are set to shape the future of study abroad admissions, empowering students worldwide to realize their dreams of global education.

The Rise of Astrotalk: Puneet Gupta’s Vision for a Digital Astrology Revolution

Astrotalk growth story highlighting Puneet Gupta’s vision for a digital astrology platform revolution

Introduction: 

Astrology has always been a practice rooted in ancient times to guide people through uncertain parts of their lives. In a world full of technology, AstroTalk came as a modern version of astrology. It is an online platform that connects people with millions of professional astrologers. The application aims to make astrology more accessible and reliable by leveraging technology. The startup was born from a simple idea and personal curiosity of Puneet Gupta. This article mentions AstroTalk’s journey, its growth, and its impact on the astrology industry.

Early Life and Education:

Puneet grew up in Punjab and went to St. Xavier’s High School. After that, he moved to the S.S.D Senior Secondary Public School in 2007. Puneet was interested in technology, so he headed to PEC University of Technology, where he got his bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Electrical Communication Engineering in 2011. 

After graduation, he worked for a couple of years as an analyst at Nomura Services India Pvt Ltd., Puneet wanted to start something of his own. In 2013, he left his job to chase his entrepreneurial dreams. Like many first-timers, he failed as his first startup didn’t work out. But Puneet didn’t let that stop him. With his engineering and technical skills, he launched Astrotalk in 2017. The startup was founded on his own idea about astrology, which shifted his perspective from skepticism to belief.

Journey of Astrotalk: Building a digital platform

Puneet Gupta’s Journey to founding AstroTalk began with a doubt as he studied engineering, which teaches you logical reasoning; however, at first, he saw astrology as a myth. At first, Puneet did not believe in astrology, but it changed after he faced a challenging period at work. According to his interviews, around 2015, he was struggling with life, and his friend asked him to get a reading, so he tried meeting an astrologer. 

The guidance he received from them helped him in making decisions and even sparked a business idea. He got curious about what a digitized astrology platform would look like. Puneet Gupta then worked on this idea by combining his technical skills with this new idea and launched AstroTalk. This marked a start for the spiritual tech space in India. AstroTalk received a lot of interest from the public, hence attracting more investors. 

Tech meets tradition: The Working of Astrotalk 

AstroTalk stands out due to its seamless technical integration and features that allow users to access services like tarot reading and Vedic astrology. The application also allows customers to do online puja via calls or chat with astrologers. The platform is home to experts, and it runs thorough background checks and checks customer reviews to ensure quality and trust. 

The AI-driven match with an astrologer and a secure payment gateway enhances the overall experience. These features make astrology way more enjoyable, easy to use, and trustworthy. Getting started with Astrotalk is very easy. Just download the app, choose your favorite astrologer, and jump into a video call or chat to get your reading. Astrotalk blends ancient astrology with new tech, making it super advanced and totally reliable.

Overcoming challenges

AstroTalk faced backlash during its early days, with questions about its legitimacy and some thought that instead of real humans, robots are chatting in the name of “experts”. The general public was also worried about it being a scam business. 

Puneet tackled this skepticism by offering more transparency to users and introducing a user rating feature to let the public review and decide if the astrologers were professionals or not. The team also tackled problems by setting up a system to verify every astrologer. They also offered free trials to new users to test the application. 

This promotion strategy worked, and the idea of digitized astrology started to gain the public’s attention, and AstroTalk’s demand surged. With increased popularity, the AstroTalk team also upgraded its infrastructure to handle huge traffic without hurting the overall performance of the application. 

The company aimed to become a global service provider, which required adaptation to various languages and customs. The challenge was met with strategic innovation, which solidified AstroTalk’s international presence. The whole journey of AstroTalk towards success proves that smart solutions and determination are important to gain public trust and keep the momentum going. 

Entering into a new era of astrology

AstroTalk has taken astrology to the global map by putting it online for more people to explore and learn about it. There are always people who don’t get a reading due to distance or cost. Some even call it too time-consuming, and that’s where AstroTalk comes into play by providing readings in just a few clicks. By bringing astrology online, Puneet Gupta has broadened its reach. The startup’s success also opened the door to spiritual tech ventures while setting a new standard for innovation. 

AstroTalk plans to refine its artificial intelligence technology for more personalized recommendations. The startup is also exploring virtual reality for consultations and blockchain for enhanced security. The firm aims to enter the Southeast Asia and the Middle East markets, as these regions also believe in astrology. AstroTalk is strengthening its position as the leader in the digital spiritual sector. Since its inception, Astrotalk has served over 30 million customers while employing around 20,000 astrologers. The firm had a revenue of Rs 650 crore in FY24 with a profit of Rs 100 crore. 

FAQs:

How does Astrotalk ensure astrologer quality?

It conducts thorough background checks and uses user reviews to maintain high standards and credibility. 

What makes Astrotalk different from other astrology apps? 

Its combination of multi-modal consultations, rigorous advisor verification, free educational content, and scalable technology sets it apart.

How has Astrotalk impacted astrology?

It has globalized access, reduced skepticism, and inspired new spiritual tech startups.

What unique features does Astrotalk offer?

Features include AI-driven astrologer matching, live sessions, and secure, encrypted transactions.

Where does Astrotalk operate?

Initially launched in India, it has expanded globally, adapting to local languages and preferences.

Can I use Astrotalk outside India? 

Yes. While deeply rooted in Indian astrology traditions, Astrotalk is expanding to serve global audiences, including the Indian diaspora in the US, UK, and the Middle East.

Indian Startups raised $134 million this week, led by Gupshup, Netrasemi, and Edufund

Indian startups raise $134 million this week led by Gupshup, Netrasemi, and Edufund funding rounds

Indian startups secured 22 deals from July 21st to July 26th. This week, around $134.4 million in funding was raised from these deals, a 69 percent increase compared to last week. Funding activity increased in India’s startup ecosystem this week after two consecutive weeks of decline in investment, as the number went from last week’s $79.7 million secured across 21 deals to 134.4 million USD from 22 deals. 

This increase in numbers is a clear sign of investors’ interest in new ideas. From cutting-edge technology to consumer products and a variety of businesses, the startup world is in continuous growth. This huge interest from investors is a hint that they are now betting big on startups with serious potential. The article mentions India’s startup scene, funding, and acquisitions this week. 

Standout sector: Who secured the biggest investment?

This week, the enterprise tech sector received the most cash from investors. Five startups raised around 72.1 million USD, which is 50 percent of the total funds raised across all sectors this week. The biggest investment secured in this sector was Gupshuup. The firm topped both the sectoral and overall funding lists for this week. 

Gupshup secured $60 million in its latest funding round from Globespan Capital Partners and EvolutionX Debt Capital. This startup uses artificial intelligence to help businesses engage with customers across different communication channels. The company aims to take its technology to a global level to represent Indian tech. 

The Advanced Hardware and technology sector emerged as the second most funded sector with $14.5 million raised across three deals. The company working on semiconductor technology, Netrasemi, led the hardware & tech sector with 12.4 million USD raised during its series A funding round from Unicorn India Ventures and Zoho Corporation. 

Funding across Seed-stage startups

Similar to last week, around seven seed-stage startups raised $18.1 million in seed funds this week. Even though the number of deals remains the same, the investment doubled this week. The Artificial Intelligence firm, Kluisz.ai, secured 9.6 million USD in its seed funding round from Blume Founders Fund, RTP Global, Unicorn India Ventures, and others. 

The startup offers a cloud platform to provide infrastructure as a service and this cash will go towards research and development, helping Kluisz in its startup journey. The e-commerce startup, Escape Plan, also raised $5 million in its seed funding round. The firm saw participation from Jungle Ventures and Fireside Ventures. The seed funding sector saw a 50 percent increase this week, as it stood at 18.1 million USD, unlike last week’s $7.5 million. 

The startups that grabbed the most attention

The consumer services startup, SuperK, led the funding list in the consumer service sector. The firm secured $11.5 million during its series B funding round from 3STATE Ventures, Shubman Gill, and other investors. 

The e-commerce sector raised 11.2 million USD across five deals this week. Sugar Cosmetics led the funding list for this sector this week. The quick-commerce D2C platform plans to launch its new skincare and lipstick products while expanding its network. The startup secured $5 million during its recent funding round from Stride Ventures, Anicut Capital, and L Catterton.

Other major deals this week include. The Fintech startup EduFund secured $6 million during its series A funding round from Cercano Management, MassMutual Ventures, and other investors. Travel tech startup EVeez raised $5.4 million in its funding round from Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, Caret Capital, and others.

Another Enterprise tech firm, Enlite Research, contributed $5.3 million this week, securing this amount in its recent series A round from Avaana Capital and Calypond Capital. This B2B platform provides AI-based management solutions to its users. 

Active investors this week

The investors played a big and active role in the funding this week. Unicorn India Ventures was the most active investor this week by backing two startups. The investment firm invested 12.4 million USD in the Semiconductor startup Netrasemi, and it also funded the artificial intelligence firm Kluisz.ai in its seed stage. 

Anicut Capital is another notable investor; they led the mix of debt and equity round for Sugar Cosmetics with a 5 million investment. Globespan Capital Partners teamed up with EvolutionX to invest 60 million in Gupshup to help the Indian AI and tech market. This was the biggest deal for the week, accounting for 50 percent of the total funds raised. 

These investments highlight the investment firm’s focus on enterprise tech and the advanced technology sector. It also shows their confidence in the global market potential of Indian startups. Other investors, such as Cercano Management and MassMutual Ventures, were also active, but they invested smaller amounts compared to others. The funding graph itself saw a huge increase this time compared to the last 2 weeks. 

IPOs and Buyouts

The co-working space provider, IndiQube, finally completed its IPO and is expected to become the third listed co-working startup in 2025. The edtech firm, PhysicsWallah, also received SEBI’s approval for its IPO within four months of filing DHRP.  Yali Capital also closed its maiden funding round at 103.2 million USD. 

Overall funding report:

India’s startup ecosystem is growing, and the 60 percent increase in funding this week to $134 million suggests improved market conditions and investor’s support. The success of the enterprise tech and advanced hardware sectors highlights India’s growing innovation. 22 deals were made by Indian startups from July 21st to July 26th, securing over $134.4 million in funding. 

Gupshup secured the highest funding amount of $60 million from Globespan Capital Partners and other investors in its latest funding round. It dominated the funding trend in the enterprise tech sector. Some of the major investments made include EduFund, which secured the most funds under the fintech category with $6 million from its recent series A round of funding. The majority of these startups were from the enterprise tech and e-commerce sectors, followed by advanced hardware & technology startups.

From Rejection to ₹100 Crore: Meesho Founder Vidit Aatrey’s Success Story

Vidit Aatrey Meesho founder success story from rejection to ₹100 crore business growth

Introduction: 

Meesho, the e-commerce platform for fashion and beauty products, was not this famous from the start. The startup was founded by two IITians, Vidit Aatrey and Sanjeev Barnwal, with the idea of doing business online through an online platform. Meesho revolutionized social commerce in India while becoming a symbol of grit and determination. The company is still growing and creating a strong social impact while redefining the country’s digital entrepreneurship landscape. 

The startup idea that investors first rejected is now valued at over Rs 100 crore. The reason Meesho succeeded is that instead of seeing rejection as failure, Vidit saw it as a lesson. He realized the flaws in the idea and how technical skills alone are not enough for conducting business, but also recognized the need for understanding how businesses value their customers. This article mentions Vidit Aatrey’s journey from struggles to massive success.

Early Life and Education: Who is Vidit Aatrey?

Vidit Aatrey is an IIT Delhi graduate who teamed up with his college friend Sanjeev Barnwal to enable sellers to start their online business through social networking. They launched Meesho in 2015 to allow anyone to run their business through an online platform without using money on physical infrastructure. Meesho acts as a bridge to connect suppliers with sellers who want to sell products through social networking sites like WhatsApp and Instagram.    

They realized that the e-commerce sector is flourishing, so small businesses also need a platform where they can sell their products. This simple yet unique idea from Vidit reshaped the digital landscape and changed the lives of millions of people. This also benefited small shop owners who lacked the resources to reach more customers. The road to success was not this easy. Vidit also faced rejections and challenges before becoming the founder of this leading social commerce platform. 

Facing rejection in the early times

No startup begins its journey with a flowery road. Meesho’s story is no different. Freshnear was the first business Vidit and Sanjeev started, to make a platform that connects local fashion retailers with customers. It was similar to food delivery apps but for the fashion world. However, due to a lack of customer support and retailers’ interest, it didn’t last long. 

After that, Vidit and Sanjeev pitched their ideas many times but faced multiple rejections, and investors were not impressed either. Normally, people in such a tough time would prefer going back to their previous jobs and settle for them, but this duo kept on giving their best. Instead of seeing failure, they saw it as a lesson for future business. This ability to use rejection as a stepping stone made them the successful business owners they are today. 

Birth of Meesho: Pivot with purpose

We have heard that failure is like a teacher, and in this case, it was indeed a great teacher that helped the duo think of game-changing ideas. Before coming together to run a business, both Vidit and Sanjeev were employees in other companies. Sanjeev Barnwal was working with Sony’s core Tech team in Japan, while Vidit Aatrey was working at InMobi. Sanjeev wanted to start his own business, and he contacted Vidit to discuss ideas. After they both quit their job, they started a fashion marketplace.   

After learning from their previous failures, they pivoted to social commerce. The duo noticed that small businesses, especially women, are selling their products online through social platforms like WhatsApp groups. These sellers lacked big stores or a budget to promote, but they still had customers and demand. The only thing they were lacking was a way to manage and grow their small business. That’s where Meesho came into play. The name Meesho came from “meri shop” (my shop), as it offers sellers with their own shop with zero investment. 

Meesho provides suppliers with an online platform where they can list their products, resellers pick products they want to sell and share them with their social networks, and earn commission on every sale. The pivot not only saved the startup from drowning, but it also offered a solution to real-world problems. By pivoting to social commerce, Vidit was able to grab the opportunity that traditional e-commerce didn’t pay attention to. 

Scaling slowly and carefully

Meesho started its operations from a small two-bedroom apartment in Bengaluru. In 2019, Meesho reached over 200,000 users with millions of orders per month, and in just one year, this number tripled, highlighting the fast-growing customer base. Everything was going smoothly until COVID-19 came with a strict lockdown, and Meesho had to pause operations. 

2020 was one of the scariest years for any startup. However, this was not the first time Vidit and Sanjeev had to face such a big challenge. Instead of panicking, they came up with a solution to keep the business running, like safety measures. They also received funding from Facebook and SoftBank, helping Meesho to go through tough times. In 2021, Meesho reached a valuation of over 5 billion USD, proving that a successful entrepreneur needs to stay calm even during tough times. 

Meesho’s Success Today

Meesho is already a known name in the startup and business world. The platform has over 120 million monthly active users, making it India’s biggest social commerce platform. The business that started from two rooms is now offering employment to millions of people while helping small businesses expand their customer reach. In 2023, Meesho reported a 33 percent increase in its revenue to Rs 7,615 crore, with losses declining by 97 percent to Rs 53 crore. 

This proved that Meesho is not just growing but also earning a lot of profit with minimal loss. The company is now going international with a planned IPO to go public. This is one of the most successful startup stories for the Indian startup scene teaching every entrepreneur how to stay flexible, keep going, pivot when needed, and not fear failures. The company is still growing and improving with new technology. 

Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025: Game-changer for startups 

Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025

Introduction: 

The state is organizing its 28th Bengaluru Tech Summit from 18th November to 20th November at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre to showcase innovation and enhance its startup ecosystem. This event follows the theme of “Futurise.” The summit aims to find future-shaping innovations while boosting startups. The event is organized by the Department of Electronics, IT, and Biotechnology with the help of leading industry partners and the state government. 

The summit aims to gather 20,000 startup founders in the same venue for innovation, networking, and growth. The entrepreneurs will showcase their latest creations at the exhibition booths. This is the perfect opportunity to find new ideas and collaborate with them. The tech summit is already in talks for its plan to gather 20,000 founders. This article provides details about the Bengaluru Tech Summit and its importance for startups and businesses.

Understanding Tech Summit

The Bengaluru Tech Summit is going to be massive this year, with over 100,000 people expected to come. That includes 20,000 startup founders, more than 1,000 investors, delegates, industry experts, and representatives from every state and union territory. The 28th summit is all about showing India’s innovations, catching the eye of investors, and helping startups increase their connections in the industry. 

The event is designed to foster innovations by working together and opening doors for entrepreneurs. Startup founders will have the chance to chat with experts and learn from their past mistakes. Some of the most well-known tech leaders will share their insights on how to make your startup thrive and what’s currently trending in the industry. There’ll be hands-on workshops where you can dive into new technologies. Plus, startups can set up booths to showcase their innovative ideas, similar to a tech fair. There will also be plenty of chances to meet new people and grow their networks.

How does this benefit startups?  

This is a big opportunity for businesses to secure funding, as the summit provides an investor-startup matchmaking session. The founders get to pitch their ideas to investors to turn ideas into reality. This kind of connection and networking is not easy to come by and could lead to a major boost for startups. Bengaluru is already a top startup city, and this tech summit can further help them gain more attention and investment, making it a bigger state for startups.   

Entrepreneurs will get to learn from big names in the tech industry, like how to grow a business and the latest trends. With so many known figures and reporters, startups are likely to gain more attention, new customers, and partners. For businesses, this is also a great opportunity to gain new partners and fresh ideas. The collaboration between the government of Karnataka and industry will surely strengthen the startup landscape. 

Impact on startup ecosystem

The Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025 will reshape the startup ecosystem not only in Bangalore but also across the whole country. Having 20,000 entrepreneurs in the event will create more opportunities and vibrant ideas. Startups will gain more exposure and increased connections. Bengaluru will be able to strengthen its presence as the hub of tech innovation with more startups offering fintech, health tech, and AI solutions. 

The summit offers startups a chance to secure funding through networking and other events while providing mentorship to new startups. These new startups can benefit by learning from experienced people and finding their place in the business world. The event will surely attract global attention, reaching foreign investment firms, which will further take the state’s startup scene to new heights.

The importance of collaboration

A startup can collaborate with existing businesses to learn and get access to resources. The gathering promotes entrepreneurs to grow their networks with networking sessions, workshops, and panel discussions. The startups will also be able to work with academic institutes to gain access to leading research and universities to apply their ideas in practice. 

The collaboration between startups, investors, and governments fosters innovations. The Karnataka government’s project can help young people make big discoveries in fields like biotechnology. This will help society, boost the state’s economy, and create more jobs. 

What are the challenges and solutions?

Organizing such a big event with thousands of people attending is not an easy task. There are several hurdles, such as not being able to provide enough spotlight to all startup founders; however, the summit has made a plan to organize special sessions like networking events to resolve this problem. Finding skilled people is also one of the challenges that this summit solved by linking them to universities and sharing training talents. 

The startup often faces challenges like regulatory and market complexities; sometimes, they even struggle to get investments. The summit helps such startups by providing them lessons, skill development workshops, and helping them connect with investors to secure funding. The university partnerships solve the talent shortage issue. The program will guide entrepreneurs to navigate such challenges while highlighting Bengaluru’s potential as a hub of tech innovation. 

Future and the road ahead

The Bengaluru Summit is not just a three-day event; it’s a peek into what the future of Bengaluru holds. The 20,000 startup founders gathering highlights the creativity and ambition to show the world what they have, while using this as an opportunity to attract investments. For businesses, this is a chance to find partners and learn new technologies to stay ahead in the competition. 

This summit might be a big step forward for India’s tech world. The focus on exciting new technologies like blockchain will help Bengaluru to further establish itself as a leading state in innovation. It could be a real game-changer for the state’s tech community, pointing the state’s future towards more creativity and inclusivity.

More details regarding the summit will be released in the upcoming days as we near the event. With the government’s focus on providing more spotlight to startups and finding solutions to challenges, this summit can redefine the tech landscape. 

Fusion AI Summit 2025: Startup innovation in Andhra Pradesh

Fusion AI Summit 2025 Andhra Pradesh

Introduction: 

Andhra Pradesh is organizing the Fusion AI Summit from July 25th to 26th in Visakhapatnam to reshape its startup ecosystem. This two-day event follows the theme of “Turning AI potential into action.” The summit aims to find AI solutions to solve real-world problems. The event is organized by the Andhra Pradesh Digital Technology Industry Network with the help of Software Technology Park of India and the state government. 

The idea of the program is to bring a spotlight on the fresh talents and startups in Andhra Pradesh. With the support of government and global tech partners, Andhra Pradesh can strengthen its startup ecosystem while building its national presence. This article provides details about the AI summit and its impact on the state’s startup growth.

Understanding Fusion AI Summit

The event will showcase the unique strength of the state, Vizag, in particular to highlight it as a prime destination for developing a robust AI ecosystem. The chairman of APDTI network, Sreedhar Kosaraju, mentioned that this is the first time for such a summit to take place in the region. 

The fusion AI summit is not just a regular technology fair; it is more of a collaborative platform for entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and corporate executives. The program will bring global AI experts and leaders of top multinational companies together to promote the AI ecosystem in the state. 

This AI summit will cover eight major segments of AI, including Agentic AI, edge AI, generative AI, Cross-sectoral AI, hyper-automation AI, Physical AI, cloud AI, and decentralized AI. Exhibition zones will allow young talents to present their work demo next to established companies. 

A Boost for Startups in Andhra Pradesh

The Fusion AI Summit is a boon for startups as it provides them a chance to get noticed and grow. The event even has an investor-startup matchmaking session. All young entrepreneurs pitch their demo or AI ideas to investors, and then they secure funds to turn that idea into reality. This summit will be a game changer for Andhra Pradesh. Sometimes securing funds can be tricky, but with the support of government and this fresh initiative, this problem can be solved. 

Well-known companies and industry leaders like NVIDIA will also join the summit. The event will also provide a brief on current market trends and future changes. The summit will surely help businesses and startups team up with experts and spark new ideas. This event is a part of the state’s “tech for growth” plan that focuses on using AI and technology to make Andhra Pradesh stronger. 

By teaming up with the STPI and local universities, the government aims to lower barriers for startups. The state plans to nurture early-stage companies while offering skills to the younger generation. This will help benefit both startups and traditional businesses. Through this event, the state government aims to strengthen Andhra Pradesh’s position in the top three AI hubs in India by the next five years. 

How does this summit benefit startups? 

The program is giving young entrepreneurs a chance to share their ideas and help them turn them into real-world applications. The summit acts as a bridge to help startup owners meet investors or experts to secure funding or get advice. Andhra Pradesh has a huge potential in technology and engineering, and this summit aims to use this talent and become one of the top places in AI by 2030.  

The state wants to become a leader in AI innovation, and this program is a step towards achieving that goal. The event has a program called “Startup Alley”, a showcase of 100 pre-seed and seed-stage AI ideas. Everyone has five minutes to explain their vision to angel investors and venture capitalists. The Alley allows every attendee to ask questions or even form partnerships on the spot. On July 26th, the cash prize and pilot project grants will be given to selected candidates. 

Impact of AI on startups

This initiative encourages companies to come up with AI solutions for a quality lifestyle. As mentioned above, the event will explore eight major types of artificial intelligence to create systems or machines that work and think like humans do. Tech giants like Quantela and Infosys will also share their ideas and steps on how to utilize artificial intelligence in different areas.    

Businesses can save a lot of effort, time, and money by automating tasks using artificial intelligence. For example, a farmer can predict the weather to grow crops suitable for that period, increasing their earning and saving efforts. Meanwhile, exciting cash prizes and funding opportunities also gained attention. This also motivates more entrepreneurs to run their businesses, creating more employment opportunities. 

The role of government

The summit idea is solely from the government, which highlights their seriousness about Artificial Intelligence. The officials see this technology as an opportunity to improve services, provide quality life, grow the economy, and create more jobs. Andhra Pradesh is ready to lead technology. This also shows that the government is serious about making it easier for businesses and startups to grow. 

What are the challenges and solutions?

It’s never easy to organize such a big-scale event. There are several hurdles, such as lack of awareness. The summit aims to provide more education and spread awareness within these younger generations. Another challenge is money; the event does help startups to secure funding, but the AI startups usually need more and continuous funding until they reach the final product. The research itself needs a decent amount of funding. To tackle this problem government can set more rules and rewards to attract investors’ interest.   

What will be the impact of this program on Andhra Pradesh?

The investor and government support, coupled with the new initiatives, is transforming the entrepreneurial activity in Andhra Pradesh. This will make it easier for new startups to attract attention globally and secure funding. The growth of more startups will open doors to employment and create a skilled population. The strengthened startup landscape will diversify the state’s economy. The Fusion AI Summit 2025 provides a boost to startups and helps businesses grow. 

Indian startups raised $80 million this week, led by QpiAI, Phi commerce, and Truemeds 

Indian startups funding $587 million

Indian startups made 21 deals from July 14th to July 19th. This week, around $79.7 million in funding was raised from these deals, a 40 percent decrease compared to last week. Funding activity declined in India’s startup ecosystem this week, as the number went from $132.9 million secured across 17 deals to 79.7 million USD from 21 deals. 

This drop in numbers shows that investors are becoming more careful with their investments. Even with a slight decline in funding, the startup ecosystem showed continuous growth, especially in technology and hardware. The article mentions in-depth details about funding and acquisitions this week. 

Which sectors got the most attention?

This week, the advanced hardware and technology sector received the most love from investors. Six startups raised around 37.6 million USD, which alone is half of the money raised this week. All companies working with quantum computing and high-tech gadgets come under this sector. The biggest startup in this sector was QpiAI. The firm topped both the overall and sectoral funding lists this week. 

QpiAI secured $32 million in its series A funding round from National Quantum Mission and Avataar Ventures. This startup combines artificial intelligence with quantum computing and provides integrated AI solutions. The health tech sector emerged as the second most funded sector with $23.1 million raised across three deals. The online pharmacy platform Truemed led the health-tech sector with 20 million USD raised during its series C funding round from Peak XV Partners. 

Seed-stage startups

Around seven startups raised $7.5 million in their seed stage this week. The space tech firm, Omspace Rocket & Exploration, secured 3 million USD in its pre-seed funding round. The startup is currently working on space-related projects, contributing to India’s space startup journey. The artificial intelligence startup, trupeer.AI, also raised $3 million in its seed funding round. The firm saw participation from RTP Global and Salesforce Ventures. The seed funding sector saw a 50 percent decrease this week, as it stood at 7.5 million USD, unlike last week’s $14.7 million. 

The startups that stood out the most

Apart from above mentioned startups, these are other big funding deals for this week. The fintech startup, Phi Commerce, led the funding list in the fintech sector. The firm secured $5.9 million during its series B funding round from BEENEXT and other investors. 

The consumer services sector raised 4.3 million USD across three deals this week. KNOT led the funding list for this sector this week. The quick-commerce platform delivers fashion products in just an hour. The startup secured $3 million during its pre-series A funding round from Kae Capital, Boundless VC, Sparrow Capital, WEH Ventures, ALL In Capital, and Kumar Saurabh.

Other major deals this week include. The e-commerce startup Vaaree secured $2.1 million during its recent pre-series A funding round from Peak XV Surge, Peer Capital, and other investors. Enterprise tech startup Deep Algorithm raised $1.3 million in its funding round from Unicorn India Ventures.

Another Health tech firm, CureFit, contributed $2 million this week, securing this amount in its recent funding round from First Luxembourg SCA and other investors. This B2C platform provides fitness and wellness solutions to its users. 

Investors of the week

The investor plays the biggest role in the success of any startup. Peak XV Partners was the most active investor this week by backing two startups. The investment firm invested 20 million USD in the health tech startup TrueMeds, and it also funded the e-commerce firm Vaaree in its seed stage. 

Avataar Venture Partners is another notable investor; they led the series A funding round for QpiAI with a 32 million investment. This was the biggest deal for the week, accounting for 50 percent of the total funds raised this week. This investment highlights the investment firm’s focus on deep tech and the advanced technology sector. It also shows their confidence in the market potential of the firm. 

Other investors such as Kae Capital and Monta Vista Capital were also active, but they invested smaller amounts compared to others. The funding graph itself saw a larger decline this time than last week. 

IPOs and Buyouts

The co-working space provider, Smartworks, went public and became the third tech startup to do so in 2025. The firm’s shares traded at a 7 percent higher price than expected. Another co-working firm, IndiQube, filed papers to go public, but due to the changes in market conditions, the firm lowered the initial goal of $83 million. The online astrology platform Astrotalk raised 50 million USD in its funding round and is expected to become a unicorn after hitting a valuation of $1.3 billion. 

What was the overall funding report for this week? 

India’s startup ecosystem is growing, but the funding this week saw a decrease of 40 percent to 80 million, suggesting hesitation from investors. However, the success of the space tech and hardware sectors highlights the growing innovation. 21 deals were made by Indian startups from July 14th to July 19th, securing over $80 million in funding. 

QpiAI secured the highest funding amount of $32 million from Avataar Ventures and other investors in its series A funding round. It dominated the funding trend in the advanced hardware and technology sector. Some of the major investments made include Truemeds, which secured the most funds under the health tech category with $20 million from its latest round of funding. 

The majority of these startups were from advanced hardware and technology, artificial intelligence, health tech, and consumer services, followed by fintech startups such as Phi commerce, which secured $5.9 million in its series B funding round from Beenext and other investors.

Empowering Entrepreneurs: Jharkhand’s step to grow regional startups 

Jharkhand Startup Policy 2023

Introduction: 

Jharkhand is moving away from traditional sectors and toward an innovation-driven future. These new policies and projects aim to ensure that the regional startups also get the same amount of support and opportunities as other companies. The state focuses on strengthening its startup ecosystem to drive economic growth and entrepreneurial success. This shift from depending on its minerals to an innovation-driven economy points towards long-term stability and growth.

The startup-friendly policy reforms and government support will also lead to more employment opportunities with improved economic conditions in the state. The success is only possible through collective effort from both the government and the private sector. The new land reform policy aims to empower regional startups and have industrial growth in both urban and rural areas of Jharkhand. Jharkhand has the potential to transform its business landscape while contributing to the country’s economy. This article mentions details about these initiatives and their impact on regional startup growth.

The push for startups in Jharkhand

Entrepreneurs faced challenges in land acquisition procedures and administrative hurdles. The long approval time, unclear pricing norms, and other factors discouraged people from starting a new business. The government of Jharkhand noticed this and introduced transformative measures to make the state a fertile ground for innovation and entrepreneurs. While Land reform can make critical resources more accessible, the MSME directorate can nurture startups. 

This push from the government aims to empower startups and drive economic diversification. Officials at the stakeholder meeting also presented seven major projects to secure funding and investments. Some of these include the IT tower in Ranchi, Logistics Park in Dhanbad, and more. The estimated investments these projects can secure are around Rs 500 crore, creating 30,000 new direct and indirect jobs. 

Land Reforms and the Challenges of Land Acquisition

The new Land Allotment Policy of 2025 leans toward transparency and efficiency. This policy was discussed during the stakeholders’ meetings by Jharkhand Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation and Jharkhand Industrial Area Development Authority. 

The plan is to create an online portal allowing applicants to navigate easily and submit their proposals and complete final allotment without the need for any paperwork or in-office visits. The digital application saves time and verifies the information while time-stamping it to build trust. This eliminates bureaucratic delays, allowing companies to secure operational land and enter the market faster. 

The acquisition of land for business has always been a tiring task, especially in Jharkhand. Entrepreneurs must pass several regulations and a long approval process. These challenges often hinder with growth of the business. The new land reform aims to solve such challenges. This will strengthen the startup ecosystem and increase economic development in Jharkhand. 

How will this benefit the startups?

Once the land allocation policy gets approved, the land acquisition will become more startup-friendly. The simplification of the process eliminates the need for similar paperwork, which speeds up approvals and saves time for product development and planning. 

The government is also offering priority allocations and subsidized land rates for startups. This step will help entrepreneurs whose early-stage budgets are tight. The ready-made infrastructure will allow startups to save on the upfront costs of setting up the shop. The growth of regional startups will also lead to more job opportunities, contributing to the country’s economy. 

Impact on startups

This initiative lets companies easily access land for business with additional support from the government. The Land Allotment Policy removes one of the biggest barriers for startups. The infrastructure problem is common in sectors like manufacturing, agritech, and logistics, as they rely heavily on physical space. The program will help the state with a surge in startup activities and regional business growth. This also motivates more entrepreneurs to start their businesses, leading to economic growth. 

How MSME Directorate empower small businesses?

Small businesses often face challenges due to inadequate funding, lack of skills, and limited market reach. To overcome these problems and provide these businesses with efficient support, the MSME Directorate is being discussed. The aim is to support them from registering to offering investment and solving financial issues. 

MSME Directorate is an initiative to empower these enterprises and fuel the state’s startup ecosystem. Small businesses often struggle to secure funding, but with the Directorate, they can have low-interest loans, grants, and subsidies, which solve their financial problems. They also bridge the gap by entering the market by organizing trade fairs and offering digital marketing support to reach a broader audience.

To put it simply MSME Directorate is a guide that helps startups navigate the challenging journey. It strengthens MSMEs to improve the entire startup ecosystem and foster resilience and scalability. 

What will be the impact of these reforms on Jharkhand?

The land reforms, coupled with the MSME Directorate, are transforming the entrepreneurial activity in Jharkhand. This will make it easier to acquire lands, gain institutional support, and secure funding. The growth of regional startups will open doors to employment and a skilled population. 

The strengthened startup landscape will diversify Jharkhand’s economy while reducing reliance on its traditional sectors like mining. The push towards an innovation-driven economy will also provide more stable growth. To achieve the best outcome, the government should be consistent and monitor regularly while collaborating with the private sector. 

Conclusion

The Jharkhand government announced its plans to shift its focus toward fostering a dynamic startup ecosystem. The state aims to redefine its startup ecosystem. The topic of new land reforms and the establishment of the MSMEs directorate was raised during the official meeting. The state government is addressing challenges to grow businesses and create an environment for startups to thrive. 

The officials announced the Land Allotment Policy, 2025, making it easier for startups to secure land and operate more quickly. Setting up a directorate for MSMEs aims to empower the sector while promoting balanced economic development. This step from the government can make Jharkhand an emerging hub for entrepreneurial innovation