IIT Madras Launches Information Platform to Empower Startups and Investors

The Centre for Research on Startups and Risk Financing (CREST) at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has unveiled a pioneering initiative during the International Confluence Conference on Startups and Innovation held from December 13th to 15th, 2023.

This global conference served as a catalyst for scholarly discussions, bringing together experts, researchers, practitioners, and policymakers worldwide. The highlight of the event was the launch of the 'Indian Startup Ecosystem and Investor Platform' during the inaugural session on December 13th, 2023.

Unveiling the Comprehensive Information Hub

The platform, a collaborative effort with YNOS, an IIT Madras-incubated startup, is designed to be a game-changer in promoting entrepreneurship. It boasts a wealth of information, encompassing details on approximately 1,96,000 startups, 10,800 angel investors, 4,800 venture capitalists, 965 incubators, 102 government schemes for startups, and 560 institutions for loan funding. This all-encompassing platform positions itself as the most comprehensive resource for startups and investors in the entrepreneurial landscape.

A Comprehensive Resource for the Startup Journey

The platform offers a wealth of information, including:

• Startup data: Comprehensive details on over 196,000 startups

• Investor information: Profiles of 10,800 angel investors and 4,800 venture capitalists (VCs)

• Funding resources: Details on 965 incubators, 102 government schemes for startups, and 560 loan funding institutions

This comprehensive data makes it the most extensive platform of its kind in India, empowering startups with the resources they need to navigate the entrepreneurial journey.

A Comprehensive Platform for Startups and Investors

Developed in partnership with YNOS, an IIT Madras-incubated startup, the platform offers a centralized resource for information on various aspects of the Indian startup ecosystem. It boasts a vast database encompassing:

• 196,000 Startups: Providing a comprehensive directory of Indian startups across various sectors.

• 10,800 Angel Investors: Connecting startups with potential early-stage investors.

• 4,800 Venture Capitalists: Facilitating access to venture capital funding for growing companies.

• 965 Incubators: Offering vital support and resources for nascent startups.

• 102 Government Schemes: Providing information on government initiatives and funding programs for startups.

• 560 Loan Funding Institutions: Connecting startups with potential lenders for accessing debt financing.

A Visionary Approach by SIDBI Chairman

Sivasubramanian Ramann, Chairman and Managing Director of the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), officially launched the platform. Reflecting on the significance of a robust capital market for an advanced economy, Minister PTR Palanivel Thiagarajan emphasized the need for varied risk-return profiles in the investment community. He drew parallels with the U.S. ecosystem, highlighting the availability of substantial capital across different stages of startup development.

India's Stellar Startup Ecosystem

The Indian startup ecosystem has witnessed remarkable growth, producing six decacorns and over 100 unicorns. Garnering global recognition, it stands as the third-largest tech startup ecosystem globally, following the U.S. and China. With the launch of this information platform, CREST aims to fortify its position as a global center for startup research, innovation, and risk financing.

CREST's Mission and Comprehensive Information Repository

Thillai Rajan A, Head of CREST at IIT Madras, outlined the center's mission to be a globally acclaimed hub for startup research. Beyond conducting cutting-edge research projects, CREST has fulfilled a longstanding need by establishing India's most comprehensive information platform for the startup ecosystem. This platform caters to the informational needs of entrepreneurs and stakeholders, contributing to the growth and development of startups in India and beyond.