India’s startup ecosystem is buzzing once again. Despite a funding slowdown in 2023–24, investors are showing renewed interest in sectors like AI, climate-tech, and fintech. According to a recent NASSCOM report, India is home to over 115 unicorns and 90,000 registered startups, making it the third-largest startup hub in the world.
As we step into 2025, certain companies stand out for their disruptive potential, strong investor backing, and innovative business models. Here are the Top 5 Startups to Watch in 2025 — and why they could shape India’s economic future.
1. Zepto – Redefining Quick Commerce
- Sector: E-commerce / Quick Delivery
- Why it’s trending: After becoming one of India’s youngest unicorns, Zepto continues to disrupt the 10-minute grocery delivery space. With profitability on the horizon, Zepto is aggressively expanding beyond metros into Tier-2 cities.
- Impact on economy/investors: Quick commerce is creating new jobs, new supply chains, and investor opportunities in hyperlocal logistics. If Zepto sustains growth, it could set the stage for India’s next wave of IPOs.
2. Ola Electric – Powering India’s EV Revolution
- Sector: Electric Vehicles / Clean Energy
- Why it’s trending: With India targeting EV adoption of 30% by 2030, Ola Electric is at the forefront. The company recently announced new scooter models and plans to set up the world’s largest EV battery manufacturing facility.
- Expert Insight: Analysts believe Ola Electric’s IPO, expected in 2025, could be one of the biggest in India’s clean energy sector. Investors are eyeing it as a long-term growth bet.
- Economic impact: Reduced oil dependency, job creation in clean energy, and contribution to India’s sustainability goals.
3. Jar – Gold Savings for the Digital Age
- Sector: Fintech
- Why it’s trending: In a country where gold is both a cultural and financial asset, Jar’s micro-savings app is changing how young Indians invest. The app allows users to save spare change and automatically invest it in digital gold.
- Investor Angle: With 15M+ downloads and strong VC backing, Jar is tapping into India’s $1.4 trillion household gold market. Its easy-to-use model makes it a fintech startup to watch.
- Why it matters: Simplifies wealth-building for millennials and Gen Z, encouraging financial literacy and long-term savings.
4. Zetwerk – The B2B Manufacturing Powerhouse
- Sector: Manufacturing / B2B Tech
- Why it’s trending: Zetwerk has become the go-to platform for custom manufacturing solutions, serving industries from aerospace to consumer goods.
- Expert Insight: India’s “Make in India” push and global supply chain diversification are creating massive opportunities for B2B marketplaces like Zetwerk.
- Impact: Strengthens India’s position in global manufacturing, attracts foreign investment, and accelerates industrial digital transformation.
5. HealthifyMe – AI-Driven Health & Wellness
- Sector: HealthTech
- Why it’s trending: With rising awareness about mental health, fitness, and nutrition, HealthifyMe is blending AI with personal wellness coaching. Its AI nutritionist “Ria” has gained traction across global markets.
- Investor Angle: The global digital health market is projected to reach $650 billion by 2030. HealthifyMe’s cross-border expansion makes it a strong player in India’s health-tech revolution.
- Why it matters: Preventive healthcare reduces long-term healthcare costs, improves productivity, and supports national health goals.
The Bigger Picture: What These Startups Mean for India’s Economy
- Job Creation: Together, these startups employ tens of thousands and will generate more as they expand.
- Global Competitiveness: From EVs to AI-driven health, they’re helping India emerge as a tech and innovation hub.
- Investor Confidence: A successful IPO season in 2025 could restore global confidence in India’s startup ecosystem.
Expert Take: According to venture capital analysts, 2025 could mark the beginning of a new wave of unicorn IPOs, signaling the maturity of India’s startup ecosystem.
Outlook for 2025
India’s startup journey is far from slowing down. With favorable government policies, strong digital infrastructure, and an ambitious young population, the next decade could see India producing world-class giants across tech, finance, and sustainability.