India’s startup ecosystem is witnessing unprecedented growth, with over 55,200 startups recognised in FY 2025–26—the highest ever in a single year since the launch of the Startup India initiative.
With this surge, the total number of recognised startups in the country has crossed 2.23 lakh, generating more than 23.36 lakh direct jobs. Notably, nearly 48% of these startups have at least one woman director or partner, highlighting the growing role of women in entrepreneurship.
Compared to FY 2024–25, the number of recognised startups grew by 51.6%, while job creation increased by over 36%. States like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Gujarat have emerged as top contributors in both startup numbers and employment generation, with Maharashtra leading the chart.
The government continues to boost startups through key schemes such as Fund of Funds, Seed Fund, and Credit Guarantee initiatives—ensuring financial support at every stage of growth. These efforts have resulted in thousands of crores in investments and improved access to credit for startups.
Additionally, the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has enabled over 38,000 startups to participate in public procurement, opening new business opportunities and markets.
Innovation is also on the rise, with a significant increase in patent filings by startups over the past year. Overall, India’s startup ecosystem is expanding rapidly, playing a crucial role in driving economic growth and shaping the vision of a developed India.
