44,000 startups registered in 2025, highest ever: PM Modi
In a significant milestone for the Indian startup ecosystem, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the country witnessed the registration of nearly 44,000 startups in 2025, marking the highest annual addition since the launch of the Startup India initiative. This remarkable growth reflects a profound shift in the country’s entrepreneurial landscape, with a growing inclination towards risk-taking, innovation, and a maturing ecosystem that fosters startup-to-unicorn growth.
Speaking at the 10-year milestone of the Startup India programme, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the government’s unwavering commitment to supporting the startup community, emphasizing the importance of continued funding support and a sharper focus on deep-tech sectors. This strategic approach aims to propel Indian startups to the global forefront, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to drive sustainable growth and socio-economic development.
The Startup India initiative, launched in 2016, has been instrumental in catalyzing the growth of the Indian startup ecosystem. Over the years, the programme has provided a conducive environment for entrepreneurs to innovate, experiment, and scale their ventures. The government’s efforts to simplify regulatory frameworks, provide access to funding, and foster industry-academia collaborations have yielded impressive results, with the number of registered startups increasing exponentially.
The registration of 44,000 startups in 2025 is a testament to the programme’s success, demonstrating a significant surge in entrepreneurial activity across the country. This growth is not limited to traditional startup hubs like Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai, but is spread across tier-2 and tier-3 cities, indicating a democratization of the startup ecosystem.
The rise of Indian startups has been characterized by a growing emphasis on deep-tech sectors, including artificial intelligence, blockchain, and renewable energy. These sectors have attracted significant investments, with many startups securing funding from prominent venture capital firms and angel investors. The government’s focus on deep-tech has been strategic, recognizing the potential of these sectors to drive innovation, create jobs, and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
The growth of the Indian startup ecosystem has also been marked by an increase in startup-to-unicorn conversions. Unicorns, or startups with a valuation of over $1 billion, have become a benchmark of success for Indian entrepreneurs. The country has witnessed a significant rise in the number of unicorns, with many startups achieving this milestone within a relatively short period. This trend is expected to continue, with several startups poised to enter the unicorn club in the near future.
The government’s continued funding support has been critical to the growth of the startup ecosystem. Initiatives like the Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS) and the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme have provided much-needed capital to early-stage startups, enabling them to scale their operations and achieve their growth potential. The government has also established a network of incubators and accelerators, providing startups with access to mentorship, networking opportunities, and infrastructure support.
As the Indian startup ecosystem continues to evolve, it is likely to face new challenges and opportunities. The government’s focus on deep-tech sectors, funding support, and regulatory simplification will be critical to sustaining this growth momentum. The rise of Indian startups has the potential to transform the country’s economy, creating new opportunities for employment, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
In conclusion, the registration of 44,000 startups in 2025 is a significant milestone for the Indian startup ecosystem, reflecting a growing culture of entrepreneurship, innovation, and risk-taking. As the country continues to support the growth of its startup community, it is likely to witness a new wave of innovation, job creation, and economic growth. The government’s commitment to the startup ecosystem, combined with the ingenuity and determination of Indian entrepreneurs, will be instrumental in shaping the country’s future as a hub for startup innovation and growth.
News Source: https://ascendants.in/industry_events/nearly-44000-startups-registered-2025-narendra-modi-startup-india/
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