In February 2025, the global entrepreneurship and startup landscape witnessed significant developments, marked by substantial funding rounds, strategic acquisitions, and evolving market trends.
Indian Startup Ecosystem
Indian startups experienced a notable surge in funding, securing a total of $1.65 billion in February 2025. This represents a 19.5% increase from January’s $1.38 billion, though it reflects a year-on-year decline from $2.06 billion raised in February 2024. Bengaluru led the funding activities, attracting $353 million during this period.
Key funding rounds included:
• Geniemode, a B2B cross-border e-commerce platform based in Gurugram, raised $50 million in a Series C round led by Multiples Alternate Asset Management, Fundamentum, Paramark Ventures, and Info Edge Ventures.
• Udaan, a Bengaluru-based B2B e-commerce startup, secured $75 million in a Series G funding round.
• Zolve, a cross-border neobank from Bengaluru, raised $251 million in a Series B round with participation from Creaegis, HSBC, SBI Investment, and GMO Venture Partners.
The Union Budget 2025-26 further underscored the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, introducing policies aimed at strengthening the startup ecosystem.
Global Startup Developments
• Healthcare Startups Pursuing Acquisitions: Several healthcare startups are poised for acquisitions to fuel growth and expand market presence. Notably, Caresyntax raised $180 million to fund acquisitions in surgical AI and video analytics, while Athelas, part of Commure, focuses on mergers and acquisitions to enhance its offerings.
• Investment in Older Entrepreneurs: Venture capitalist Katerina Stroponiati launched the Brilliant Minds project to support entrepreneurs aged 50 and above, emphasizing their extensive experience, industry connections, and credibility as valuable assets in the startup ecosystem.
• Influencer Economy Investment: Uscreen, a startup enabling influencers to create and manage their own apps, secured a $150 million investment from PSG Equity. This funding aims to empower influencers to have greater control over their businesses amid a shifting social media landscape.
Market Trends and Outlook
The global startup ecosystem continues to navigate a complex landscape influenced by technological advancements and geopolitical factors. Discussions at an Axios event highlighted that the incoming Trump administration and developments in artificial intelligence are expected to impact regulatory environments and deal-making activities in 2025.
Overall, February 2025 showcased resilience and adaptability within the global startup community, with significant funding activities and strategic initiatives positioning startups for future growth.
Src: ChatGPT
