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Tag: Business startup

  • Virat Kohli’s Game-Changing Investments | Startups He Owns and Invests In

    The Indian cricket team extends its influence beyond the field, with several cricketers making strides in the business sector. Top cricketers such as Sachin Tendulkar, M.S. Dhoni, and Virat Kohli have invested in numerous startups. Among these Indian cricketers, we will focus on Virat Kohli and his funded startups in this StartupTalky article.

    Besides excelling in the field, he is well-established in the business sector. Kohli is recognised as India’s most valuable celebrity, with a brand value of $227.9 million as of 2024. In addition to owning several brands, including WROGN, he has invested in various startups. Recently, he has been actively engaging with emerging startups, some of which he and his wife, Anushka Sharma, have funded together.

    Kohli is known for investing in startups across various sectors, including health, insurance, and travel. One of his most notable investments is in the Indian fintech startup Go Digit General Insurance Limited.

    In this article, we will discuss Virat Kohli’s investments in startups. So, without any further ado, let’s get started.

    Virat Kohli Investments List

    Virat Kohli Invested Companies Founded Year Headquarters Sector & Sub-Sector
    Agilitas 2023 Bengaluru Consumer Goods > Apparel Brands
    Rage Coffee 2018 Delhi Food and Agriculture > Food & Beverage Products
    BlueTribe 2020 Maharashtra Food and Agriculture Tech > Food Tech
    O’cean Beverages 2015 Maharashtra Food and Agriculture > Food & Beverage Products
    SPORTSBIZ 1999 New York Consumer > Sports Services
    Wrogn 2012 Karnataka Consumer Goods > Retailers
    Digit Insurance 2016 Karnataka FinTech > Internet First Insurance Platforms
    MPL 2018 Karnataka Consumer > Sports Tech
    HyperIce 2011 California Consumer > Sports Tech

    Virat Kohli Investments in Startups

    Virat Kohli’s Business Ventures & Brand Collaborations

    Virat Kohli Investments in Startups

    Here is the list of startups Virat Kohli has invested in:

    Agilitas

    Company Name Agilitas
    Founder Abhishek Ganguly, Atul Bajaj, Amit Prabhu
    Virat Kohli Investment Undisclosed
    Agilitas - Virat Kohli Business Investments
    Agilitas – Virat Kohli Business Investments

    In April 2025, Virat Kohli invested an undisclosed but reportedly significant amount in Agilitas, a sportswear and athleisure startup based in Bengaluru. The company was founded in 2023 by former PUMA India executives Abhishek Ganguly, Atul Bajaj, and Amit Prabhu. Kohli’s role goes beyond being a brand ambassador; he is also a co-creator, aiming to grow his lifestyle brand, One8, through standalone stores in India and international markets like the US and UK. This partnership follows the conclusion of his deal with Puma and fits with Agilitas’ goal of changing the Indian sportswear industry by using innovation and technology in its products.

    Rage Coffee

    Company Name Rage Coffee
    Founder Bharat Sethi
    Virat Kohli Investment Undisclosed
    Rage Coffee - Virat Kohli Investment in Startups
    Rage Coffee – Virat Kohli Investment in Startups

    Virat Kohli invested an undisclosed amount in Rage Coffee on 23rd March 2022 and was appointed as the brand ambassador for the New Delhi-based coffee brand. This partnership aims to enhance Rage Coffee’s brand presence and credibility. The company plans to utilise the investment to scale production, launch innovative products, and strengthen its senior management team.

    One of the top coffee startups in India, Rage Coffee is co-owned by founder and CEO Bharat Sethi, Sixth Sense Ventures, cricketer Virat Kohli, and actor Rannvijay Singha. In August 2024, GRM Overseas acquired a 44% equity stake in Swmabhan Commerce Pvt Ltd, the parent company of Rage Coffee, through a combination of primary infusion and secondary buyouts.

    Blue Tribe

    Company Name Blue Tribe
    Founder Nikki Arora Singh, Sandeep Singh
    Virat Kohli Investment Undisclosed
    Blue Tribe - Virat Kohli Business Investments with Anushka Sharma
    Blue Tribe – Virat Kohli Business Investments

    Celebrity couple Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma have invested in Blue Tribe, a startup specialising in plant-based meat products. The company aims to manufacture and distribute delicacies such as frozen minced chicken, chicken nuggets, keema, sausages, and momos. This investment adds another promising venture to Virat Kohli’s portfolio.

    Blue Tribe was founded by Sandeep Singh and Nikki Arora Singh in 2017 as a meat alternative startup. The company claims to use vegetables like peas, soybeans, lentils, grains, and more, all of which are known to provide a mix of proteins, vitamins, and other nutrients necessary for healthy living.

    Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli have been following a meat-free diet for many years. In a statement dated 8th February 2022, Anushka Sharma expressed their desire to “tell people how they can be more conscious and leave less impact on the planet by switching to a plant-based diet.”

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    Universal Sportsbiz

    Company Name Universal Sportsbiz
    Founder Anjana Reddy
    Virat Kohli Investment INR 19.3 crore ($2.6 million)
    Universal Sportsbiz – Virat Kohli Investments

    Universal Sportsbiz Pvt Ltd (USPL) is a prominent fashion startup founded in 2012 by Anjana Reddy, focusing on youth-oriented apparel brands. In 2020, Virat Kohli, through Cornerstone Sports LLP, invested approximately INR 19.3 crore in USPL, acquiring 4,282 shares at a price of INR 47,571 per share, with a nominal value of INR 10 each.

    This investment aligns Kohli with cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, who is also an investor in the company. Prior to this investment, Kohli collaborated with USPL for promotional events related to their fashion brand Wrogn, which he co-owns. In June 2024, Aditya Birla Group’s fashion and lifestyle venture, TMRW, acquired a 16% stake in USPL for INR 125 crore.

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    Galactus Funware Technology Pvt. Ltd.

    Company Name Galactus Funware Technology Pvt. Ltd.
    Founder Sai Srinivas Kiran G and Shubh Malhotra
    Virat Kohli Investment Undisclosed
    Galactus Funware, Parent Company of MPL - Virat Kohli Investment Companies
    Galactus Funware, Parent Company of MPL – Virat Kohli Investment Companies

    In early 2019, Virat Kohli invested around INR 33.32 lakh in Bengaluru-based Galactus Funware Technology Pvt. Ltd., the parent company of Mobile Premier League (MPL), by acquiring compulsory convertible debentures (CCDs). These CCDs are set to convert into equity after ten years, granting Kohli a 0.051% stake in the company. Notably, in November 2020, MPL Sports, a subsidiary of Galactus Funware, became the official kit sponsor and merchandise partner for the Indian cricket team.

    Digit Insurance

    Company Name Digit Insurance
    Founder Kamesh Goyal
    Virat Kohli Investment INR 2 crore ($262k)
    Virat Kohli Business Investment in Startups - Digit
    Virat Kohli Investment in Startups – Digit

    Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma invested in Go Digit General Insurance in early 2020, contributing a combined total of approximately INR 2.5 crore. Kohli purchased 266,667 shares at INR 75 per share, amounting to INR 2 crore, while Anushka Sharma invested INR 50 lakh. Their investment was part of a funding round before Digit Insurance’s IPO.

    Go Digit General Insurance launched its IPO in May 2024, with a price band set between INR 258 to INR 272 per share. On its listing day (May 23, 2024), the stock debuted at INR 286 per share on NSE, reflecting a 5.15% premium over the issue price.

    Following the IPO, Kohli’s stake saw a significant rise, with his 266,667 shares valued at approximately INR 7.25 crore at the upper price band of INR 272, marking an over 3.5x appreciation. Anushka Sharma’s investment also experienced proportional growth.

    Chisel Fitness

    Company Name Chisel Fitness
    Founder Satya Sinha
    Virat Kohli Investment INR 90 crore ($11.81 million)
    Virat Kohli Business Investment in Startups - Chisel Fitness
    Virat Kohli Investment in Startups – Chisel Fitness

    Virat Kohli partnered with Chisel Fitness, a Bengaluru-based fitness startup, to launch a chain of gyms and fitness centers across India. He holds a 30% stake in the company and has invested approximately INR 90 crore into the venture. The brand is jointly owned by Kohli, Chisel Fitness, and CSE, the sister concern of Cornerstone Sport & Entertainment, which manages Kohli’s commercial interests.

    The company is in discussions with international sports-based fitness experts to enhance its offerings.

    Hyperice

    Company Name Hyperice
    Founder Anthony Katz
    Virat Kohli Investment Undisclosed
    Virat Kohli Business Investment in Startups - Hyperice
    Virat Kohli Investment in Startups – Hyperice

    Virat Kohli invested in Hyperice, a U.S.-based wellness and recovery technology startup, marking the company’s expansion into India. He joined Hyperice as an athlete investor and global brand ambassador, alongside other renowned athletes like Naomi Osaka, Erling Haaland, and Ja Morant.

    Founded in 2010 by Anthony Katz, Hyperice specialises in high-performance recovery and wellness products. It has a strong presence in the U.S., France, the UK, Italy, Spain, Germany, and Portugal and is now focusing on growing its footprint in India.

    Hyperice has expanded its product line over the years, offering Hyperice X (contrast therapy device), Hypervolt (percussion massager), Vyper (vibrating rollers), Venom (portable heat massage), Hypersphere, and Normatec (massager line), catering to athletes and fitness enthusiasts worldwide.

    Virat Kohli also made an investment in Sport Convo. However, Sport Convo Limited was dissolved on 16 August 2022, ceasing its operations.

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    Virat Kohli’s Business Ventures & Brand Collaborations

    Apart from investing in some of the most promising startups, Kohli is also known for his own business ventures. Here is a list of companies owned by Virat Kohli:

    One8 Commune

    One8 Commune is a premium restobar chain owned by Virat Kohli, marking his entry into the food and beverage industry. The first outlet was launched in 2017 in New Delhi, and since then, it has expanded to multiple cities across India, including Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, and Bengaluru.

    Known for its chic ambiance and modern yet classy décor, One8 Commune offers a diverse menu catering to a variety of tastes, including vegetarian, vegan, and healthy options, aligning with Kohli’s personal lifestyle. The restobar has quickly become a go-to destination for casual and fine dining, attracting both food enthusiasts and Kohli fans alike.

    With its growing presence, One8 Commune continues to grow as one of India’s most popular dining and hangout spots.

    Nueva

    Nueva is a fine dining restaurant and bar in New Delhi, co-owned by Virat Kohli. Established in 2017, it offers a South American-inspired culinary experience, featuring a menu that blends European, American, Pan Asian, and Peruvian flavors. The restaurant’s interior is adorned with Native American art, creating a chic and elegant ambiance.

    Puma One8

    In 2017, Virat Kohli collaborated with German sportswear brand Puma to launch his athleisure brand, One8. The collection includes activewear, footwear, and accessories, reflecting Kohli’s personal style and commitment to fitness. Puma’s design team drew inspiration from Kohli’s wardrobe to create the One8 range, ensuring it resonated with his persona. The brand name, “One8,” is derived from Kohli’s jersey number, 18, which holds special significance for him.

    The partnership has been highly successful, with the One8 collection contributing significantly to Puma India’s sales. In the 2019 fiscal year, the association with One8 accounted for 10% of Puma India’s revenue, highlighting the brand’s popularity and market impact. 

    FC Goa

    FC Goa, a professional football club in the Indian Super League (ISL), was co-founded in 2014 and partially owned by Virat Kohli, who holds a 12% stake. Kohli’s investment reflects his passion for football and his vision to promote the sport in India. Under his co-ownership, FC Goa has grown into one of the top-performing teams in the league, forming strategic partnerships and focusing on player development to strengthen Indian football.

    UAE Royals

    UAE Royals, a Dubai-based tennis team, was founded in 2014 and gained global recognition with tennis legend Roger Federer as part of its lineup. In 2015, Virat Kohli joined as a co-owner, investing in the franchise to promote tennis and expand its reach. His involvement aimed to bring more visibility to the sport and strengthen its presence in the region.

    Bengaluru Yodhas

    Bengaluru Yodhas, a Pro Wrestling League team based in Bangalore, became Virat Kohli’s third sports venture outside cricket when he was announced as the co-owner in 2015. His involvement aimed to boost the popularity of wrestling in India and support emerging talent in the sport.

    Wrogn

    Wrogn is a premium fashion brand co-owned by Virat Kohli, known for its trendy and youthful apparel. Founded by Anjana Reddy in 2012, Kohli joined as a co-owner in 2013, adding his signature style to the brand’s identity. Headquartered in Bengaluru, Wrogn has grown into a popular choice for modern, fashion-forward consumers.

    Stepathlon Kids

    Being a fitness freak himself, it is not surprising that Virat Kohli is investing in something related to fitness. Stepathlon Kids is a lifestyle brand that focuses on the health and wellness of kids. Virat Kohli launched Stepathlon Kids in collaboration with Stepathlon in 2016. The brand promotes and urges kids to follow a healthy lifestyle and eating habits. It is India’s first gamified health platform aimed at encouraging children to adopt an active lifestyle.

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    Conclusion

    Many promising sportsmen, such as Kapil Dev and Sachin Tendulkar, have invested in startups. With India’s growing startup ecosystem, Virat Kohli has also joined the club by investing in multiple businesses across industries.

    Known for his stellar performances on the field, the cricket icon has already established himself as one of the finest athletes in the sport’s history. Beyond cricket, Kohli is making strategic investments and collaborating with promising brands, further solidifying his presence in the business world.

    FAQs

    What is the net worth of Virat Kohli?

    As of 2024, according to Mint, Virat Kohli’s net worth is estimated to be Rs 1050 crore ($123 million).

    What is the age of Virat Kohli?

    Virat Kohli was born on 5 November 1988 and is 36 years old.

    Is Virat Kohli an investor?

    Virat Kohli is an investor in many startups across different categories from mobile gaming, fashion wear, food products, and fintech industries. He has invested in brands like Rage Coffee, Blue Tribe, Digit Insurance, and more.

    Which companies are owned by Virat Kohli?

    Virat Kohli owns or co-owns the brands Wrogn, One8, Nueva, FC Goa, UAE Royals, and Bengaluru Yodhas.

    What are the companies that Virat Kohli has invested in?

    Virat Kohli’s investments include:

    • Rage Coffee
    • Blue Tribe
    • Sport Convo
    • Galactus Funware Technology Pvt Limited
    • Universal Sportsbiz
    • Digit Insurance
    • Chisel Fitness
    • Hyperice

  • How to Start an Airbnb Business? (Complete Guide)

    There’s something about those beautiful rooms, appealing colour palettes and the homely feeling that comes with an Airbnb — something that sets it apart, and makes it an ideal option as a short term accommodation for travellers across the globe. The popularity of Airbnb stems from the local experiences that they promise to travellers.

    A unique opportunity for the hosts as well as the travel enthusiasts, Airbnb has grown leaps & bounds over the years, and finally turned into a lucrative business with the potential to offer handsome returns in the long run. Airbnb was the brainchild of Brian Chesky & Joe Gebbia, which was later moulded into Airbnb along with Nathan Blecharczyk in 2008.

    With over a billion guest stays, Airbnb is growing incredibly thanks to the experience they’ve been able to provide to their guests and hosts alike. Airbnb can be termed as an online marketplace that allows hosts to list rental spaces that can be anything from standalone private rooms to entire apartments and houses.

    For those of you who have available space for short term rentals, Airbnb can be a boom — an incredible source of passive income, and even a full-time business if done right!

    What Makes Airbnb, Airbnb?
    Airbnb Hosting — The Business Opportunity
    How to Start With Airbnb as a Host?
    Things to Consider Before Hosting Airbnb
    Steps to Start, Run and Grow Your Airbnb Business

    What Makes Airbnb, Airbnb?

    Well, you have to give it to the options, the availability! Airbnb provides a plethora of options at attractive prices that are well complemented by the top-notch user experience provided by the platform — app & web, alike. Add the caps put in by the COVID-19 pandemic that played upon our mental health and we craved local experiences more than ever, and you’ll know what makes Airbnb click in the first place.

    Right from tree houses to houseboats, Airbnb provides a plethora of unique options to experience your surroundings as a local — something that adds that extra bit of exclusivity to Airbnb and distinguishes it from mainstream hotels.

    Airbnb Hosting — The Business Opportunity

    As per Airbnb, hosts have earned an aggregate of more than $150 billion as of February 2022. As of 31st December 21, an average US host made more than $9000 in annual earnings from the platform.

    Hosting with Airbnb can allow you to travel more often, giving you an opportunity to interact with guests and locals, and even providing you the ability to buy/rent more properties along the journey.

    How to Start With Airbnb as a Host?

    Let us help you out with the first and most integral step — creating a listing. You can get a detailed overview on Airbnb’s official site on how to get started, but the crux of it all is to include the basic information in a well-curated manner, have great, visually appealing pictures that showcase your space, upload and then jot down the key factors that make your space unique and stand out in the first place.

    Airbnb lets you control important variables like — dynamic pricing where you decide how much you want to charge for your listing. This can depend on various factors including the day of the week, time of the year or a season.

    Airbnb also provides a smart pricing assistance tool that comes in handy when you want to set the right price for your space so that it gets booked more often without compromising on profitability. The Smart Pricing tools inculcate a variety of factors including demand, seasonality, festival and time of the year to determine the right pricing for a particular space in a given area.

    Airbnb is effectively free — let’s get this straight! Yes, although the platform doesn’t charge you anything for listing your space, every successful reservation attracts a 3-5% service fee, which is manageable as it takes away the pain of desperation in search for guests.

    Apart from the listing assistance, Airbnb also offers ‘Host Guarantee’ — a ‘one of a kind initiative that may provide up to $1 million in property damage protection. The Host Protection Insurance, on the other hand — covers up to $1 million in liability expenses, a commendable program to protect host rights and their properties from damage. Although some countries are excluded from this program, it is always a good idea to have some additional insurance in place as well.

    Things to Consider Before Airbnb Hosting

    Am I 100% Committed To My Business?

    Before getting started with your Airbnb business and signing up as an Airbnb Host — we want you to know that it is a commitment, a dedicated one. Like any other business, Airbnb demands your time to the core, because you’ll be the one vested with the responsibility to provide great experiences to your guests. There can be logistical and operation hurdles at times that you’ll be expected to overcome and grow, as after all — it’s a decision, not just an option.

    It Demands Time

    Adding to what we’ve already mentioned earlier, creating a successful Airbnb business demands your time and efforts, as you’re expected to respond quickly to booking requests and be available to resolve guest queries that may arise every now & then.

    Taking care of the cleaning and maintenance is another thing that may consume your time when you’re starting out. However, you can always delegate it to others once you think you’ll make enough to sustain it in the long run.

    Hosting Hurdles Ft. Limitations & Neighborhood

    Before you get started, it is important to get a comprehensive idea about municipal laws, lease limitations, moral policing and neighbourhood expectations as these factors can be instrumental in making or breaking your Airbnb business. Depending on where you live or where your space is located, there can be local laws, certifications and licenses that you may need to get hold of, before getting started with your Airbnb journey.

    Plan It Out Before Testing the Waters

    Think of it like a business even if you’re trying to add some extra bucks to your income portfolio. Having a business mindset to start with would help you in plugging any holes or financial leakages that may arise later on, due to improper planning. Create a robust business plan to start with, put in numbers & realistic financial projections based on your expectations and you’re all set to get started with your Airbnb business.

    It is important to ensure proper inclusion of expenditures and overheads like business certification and licenses, insurance, amenities like breakfast & snacks, utilities and internet data costs involved while providing that ideal experience to your guests. It is crucial to maintain an expense sheet that includes all your expenses while running your business.

    When you take hold of these factors and tick all the boxes — congratulations! You’re set to kickstart your journey with Airbnb.

    Steps to Start, Run and Grow Your Airbnb Business

    Stick to the Basics — Mantra for Success

    Well, let’s talk about the basics. Having a well-written description, great photography and high ratings based on guest experiences and hospitality trigger high guest retainers as well. A well-written description never goes out of fashion, and thus never out of business in the long run!

    An ideal listing is one that includes crisp descriptions and basic details comprising who’s and what’s related to the space. Right from the number of rooms and bathrooms, to the amenities included to the nearby attractions and landmarks for tourists and guests — all of these qualify as the ingredients for a winning listing on Airbnb.

    It is important, to be honest, and transparent with any quirks or shortcomings that your space may have. Something like the absence of an elevator or lift, or lack of a 4 wheeler parking space — are certain specifics that an ideal host should be clear and honest about, and should communicate to the guest upfront via your listing description.

    Note: Adding the property’s USPs to your listing title can be a deal maker for your guests. Try it out!

    Who doesn’t loves great pictures? Your photographs for your space can make or break your listing and thus, it is important to be serious and professional about the same. Cleaning your space thoroughly before clicking photos is a good practice as you would want guests to have a positive impression of your space. You can use natural lighting or include professional lighting depending on the dynamics of your property. Landscape shots look better in terms of photography as they give an overall view of the subject involved, and thus you must include a lot of them!

    Let the Ratings Speak — The Booking Magnet

    Nothing speaks louder in an online marketplace than reviews & ratings. Positive reviews not only push you to the top of the list but also fetch you more bookings as more customers and guests trust you and your services for the right reasons. Positive reviews at Airbnb improve your host rating and helps you leave a lasting first impression among guests.

    As per Airbnb, cleanliness, efficient & quick communication, a seamless check-in process and essential amenities are integral in getting positive reviews.

    Conclusion

    Lastly, when you’re all prepared to host with Airbnb and you’ve found your mojo already — it is time to let it bloom into a full-time venture. Depending upon your endeavours and plans, you can grow your business further by adding more properties and catering to each listing differently via varied approaches.

    After all, Airbnb is about making some extra income with your spaces and properties, that may otherwise have been left idle. With Airbnb, it is about you and upon you — to decide whether it is just another part-time gig or a full-time hustle to accomplish bigger things.

    FAQs

    Is Airbnb a good way to make money?

    Yes, Airbnb is a great way to earn some extra income, Airbnb owners make $924 a month.

    How much do most Airbnb owners make?

    On average Airbnb business owners make $5000/year.

  • What Is A Stealth Mode Startup? Everything To Know About Launching A Stealth Mode Startup

    Over the years, the world of startups has become fiercely competitive with people fighting for every last ounce of funding they can get. But with ideas in abundance, the failure rate for startups to has risen significantly with several enthusiastic and inspired entrepreneurs getting the short end of the stick.

    With governments becoming more welcoming to startups, young minds have slowly started to come up with their unique set of products, services, and new ideas for startups. However, not everyone can find the desired response ultimately leading them to drop out of the race against their wish.

    Despite the immensely high competitive market, people have found a way to work around this competition, protect their products and ideas, and set their own pace for the development of their startups.

    To achieve their dreams of having their startup, people are now starting to launch their startups in absolute secrecy for a short period. This temporary state of secrecy in a startup is what the 21st generation refers to as stealth mode.

    As the name suggests, activating stealth mode allows entrepreneurs to set the tone and pace for development and keeps their products away from the spotlight before the company goes public.

    So, what exactly is a stealth mode startup? How does it work? What are the pros and cons associated with it? Let’s find out.

    What Is a Stealth Mode Startup?
    Why Do People Opt for a Stealth Mode Startup?
    Types of Stealth Mode Startups
    Stealth Mode Startup: Benefits
    Stealth Mode Startup: Limitations
    Conclusion

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    What Is a Stealth Mode Startup?

    Despite being one of the most widely used techniques, stealth mode startups do not get discussed enough. But that is precisely what this type of startup aims for. Whether you’re a venture capitalist, investor, or aspiring entrepreneur, knowing what a stealth mode startup is and how it functions is key.

    Judging by the name, many tend to assume that a stealth mode startup is built with a sense of privacy. However, there is more to a stealth mode startup than just privacy. A stealth mode startup refers to a startup that aims at keeping its true agenda hidden at all times before going public.

    For this, the startup resorts to several legal means to keep its product, service, or idea under wraps. Therefore, a stealth mode startup avoids the public startup by hiding every last piece of information about itself. Apart from a general description, there is nothing more available to the public.

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    Why Do People Opt for a Stealth Mode Startup?

    Stealth Startup Funding Surge
    Stealth Startup Funding Surge

    A stealth-mode startup remains in absolute secrecy until it’s ready to go public. This startup mode is widely used primarily by inexperienced entrepreneurs or those that have developed a sense of paranoia about their product information getting leaked.

    Apart from startups, several major companies such as Apple, Uber, Google, and so on undergo a stealth mode every time there is a big product under development. Entrepreneurs believe that their products can impact the market significantly.

    Therefore, such people prefer to opt for a stealth mode startup. This gives them enough time to test their product without worrying about anyone finding out about it. Moreover, stealth-mode startups have control over the media narrative.

    This helps build more focus on product development and get it ready for the public without any worry of speculations or negative feedback hampering product development. Finally, stealth mode startups have the potential to come out all guns blazing and get all the public attention to themselves upon launch.

    All this allows a stealth-mode startup to gain an advantage over an overly competitive market and set its own pace for its product’s market development. Therefore, launching a stealth mode startup will allow you to get effective feedback on the following:

    • Early Concepts And Ideas Of Development
    • Target Audience
    • Market Segment And Product’s Market Fit
    • User Persona
    • Prototypes
    • Product Pricing
    • Product Placement
    • Product Positioning

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    Types of Stealth Mode Startups

    There are two different types of stealth-mode startups. Based on a company’s needs, requirements, and urgency, it may choose to opt for either one. Before we get to discuss the benefits and limitations of a stealth mode startup, it is key to know the two types of stealth mode startups.

    Total Stealth Mode

    As the name suggests, total stealth mode refers to the state in which a new company operates in absolute secrecy until it’s time to launch. The majority of the newer companies or organizations go the extra mile during total stealth mode by having zero web presence or a public profile.

    Moreover, startups launched in stealth mode often tend to control the media narrative by simply avoiding the public spotlight and completely refraining from making any public announcements about their products and services.

    By undergoing total stealth mode, a company keeps everything secret from the product description and other key pieces of information. Several startups in stealth mode are known to operate using aliases so that the line of business would remain under wraps.

    In-company Stealth Mode

    An in-company stealth mode is somewhat similar to total stealth barring a few exceptions. A company undergoes an in-company stealth mode when it is developing a new project, service, product, or idea that needs to be kept out of the public eye along with the investors and shareholders.

    Although it may appear deceiving at first, it is a technique used widely by all major and minor organizations alike. There are several motives as to why a company undergoes an in-company stealth mode.

    The primary intent is to keep all new ideas to be dismissed prematurely. As a result, companies often resort to using codenames for new endeavors to hide the true purpose of the product. This technique is primitively associated with major multinationals such as Tesla, Uber, Apple, Google, etc.

    Given the immense amount of money that goes into it, these big companies cannot afford leaks at any given point in time. As a result, the employees working on such secret initiatives are legally binding to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) to protect the property and keep the product under wraps at all times.

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    Stealth Mode Startup: Benefits

    Over the years, the corporate world has taught us that not everyone can be trusted. And now, we have finally reached a point where no one can be trusted. Similar to real-life situations, firms prefer to keep their core values and purpose under wraps until the right time.

    While this may bring along a few difficulties, it does have certain benefits attached to it which is precisely the majority of startups prefer entering stealth mode. So, what are these pros we keep referring to? Let’s find out.

    Little to No Early Public Attention

    As we mentioned earlier, a stealth-mode startup aims at keeping the company out of the spotlight until it decides to go public. Several newly launched startups tend to encounter several issues early on. This can negatively portray them.

    To ensure that this doesn’t happen, people launch a stealth mode startup so that the developers can hide their new product to avoid issues and work out the issues if any before the product is made available to the public.

    Catch The Competitors By Surprise

    A stealth mode startup often aims at going public at the last possible minute. And once it does, it catches the competitors by surprise, giving them little to no time to react. This period helps a stealth-mode startup set a firm foot in the industry and gain a foothold over the audience.

    With the competitors surprised, the time allows the stealth mode startup to secure more funding to aid its development.

    Secure

    Before a company can go public, it has to ensure that everything is in order from a legal standpoint. Right from their product to their registered trademark, everything needs to be on the books. Even if the product is ready for launch, at times the product could be far from ready.

    This is where stealth mode comes in. When in stealth mode, you can secure your intellectual property from a legal point of view. This gives your startup enough time to cater to your product and ensure it hits the ground running right away.

    Control Over Product Development And the Market pace

    One of the greatest competitive advantages of launching a startup in stealth mode is that you have absolute control over the market pace. With control over the marketplace, you can allot additional valuable time toward your product’s development.

    Stealth Mode Startup: Limitations

    Without any limitations, a stealth mode startup is nothing but a startup that follows the standard operating procedure. Although there are a few pros associated with launching a stealth mode startup, there also are a few limitations one must be aware of.

    Limited Funding Opportunities

    Stealth mode startup gives you enough time to get your product ready for launch and work on the documentation. However, securing funding is the biggest challenge when launching a stealth-mode startup. This is because, in a stealth mode startup, your product is kept under wraps.

    Since your product is under wraps, you lose a key chunk of the investor market. Simultaneously, you tend to miss out on several venture funding opportunities. This pushes an entrepreneur to arrange private meetings and seek funding in absolute secrecy.

    Minimal Customer Feedback

    Not only are your funding opportunities limited, but so is your customer feedback. With the product under cover, your business cannot interact with the customers thus keeping you from accessing key information such as customer feedback, reviews, and opinions.

    Little To No Public Attention

    In its initial stages, every business tries to get as much publicity as it can. However, in a stealth mode startup, there is no free publicity present. When in stealth mode, startups generally invest a huge chunk of money towards making a big reveal or similar launch campaign. Until then, it continues to evade the public eye.

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    Conclusion

    Despite the number of advantages associated with stealth-mode startups, they too have their share of risks. At the same time, a stealth-mode startup could be a valuable diamond that investors often look for when exploring unique investment opportunities.

    Just like every other business, launching a stealth-mode startup needs hard work, vision, and like-minded investors that are experienced and insightful about such independent ventures. Every entrepreneur starts a startup to create a significant impact on a highly competitive market.

    This vision, backed by hard work, grit, initiative, and intuition makes a stealth-mode startup worth the additional risks. Keeping your product under wraps needs a whole lot more than just personal restraints. However, when in the long run, this strategy can yield rewards you wouldn’t have anticipated.

    It isn’t always possible to avoid situations that tempt you to get early momentum in the market. But when in stealth mode, the key is to not succumb to these temptations. Ignoring the temptations will allow you to focus more on your product leading to the development of a world-class service.

    FAQs

    Why would a startup choose to be in stealth mode?

    The most important factor in choosing a stealth mode of business is to protect a new product, especially in the burgeoning stage of the product.

    Which type of startup chooses to be in stealth mode?

    Companies that deal in a competitive market or in IT software development are more prone to choose Stealth mode. For example, Google, Microsoft, Apple, etc.

  • How to Get Pre-seed Funding for your Startup in India?

    The era of startups and business has dramatically changed in the past decade and especially after the Covid-19 pandemic. Hence, it is very important for all of us to know and understand what the funding landscape looks like today and in the future. Earlier, the only goal for businesses and entrepreneurs was to get Series-A funding. If one did not have enough traction, the only way forward was bootstrapping.

    Fortunately today, startup investing has become more competitive and new level funding categories have made their way to the market. One of the increasingly popular funding ways for emerging companies and businesses is Pre-seed funding. This funding requires you specific preparation so as to set yourself and your business up for growth and success.

    The Pre-seed investors have been a boon to the startups as they allow them to raise the funds which they require and bring minimal viable products (MVPs) to life. This article is a guide for you to know what Pre-seed funding is and how to get pre-seed funding for your business or startup in India.

    What is Pre-seed funding?
    How to Get Pre-seed Funding in India?
    Where to find Pre-Seed Investors in India?

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    A step-by-step process of fundraising

    What is Pre-seed funding?

    In order to help a startup to start with its primary and base operations, an investor makes a small investment into the business. These investors or individuals invest in the business when they know the founder personally or hold strong faith in the business idea. This activity of investing is known as pre-seed funding.

    There are many platforms that provide pre-seed funding in return for a stake in the startup or the business idea. Pre-seed funding can also be obtained through crowdfunding.

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    How to Get Pre-seed Funding in India?

    It might sometimes seem nerve-racking for you to meet the pre-seed investors as in the initial stage one might not see the vision you carry. Like any other funding round, your key is to have your finances organized and have a clear business plan that will be used by you. Here are the tips through which you can acquire Pre-seed funding.

    Have Financial and Profitable Clarity

    At this stage, it is very important that you set an easy and clear outline of your business’s path to profitability. If you have a clear and thoughtful business plan that serves as a long-run road map for your startup then there are chances of you grabbing the investment.

    If you keep your financial estimates attainable and concise; put emphasis on the business strategy and transparency; prove your credibility, you can win the investor’s trust and funding.

    Keep your Business Proofs Ready

    When you pitch in front of investors, the key to winning the investment is that you show proof of success for your business idea. Test your business idea in the market, communicate your assumptions clearly, and transparently share your business plan with the investors will help you to get the pre-seed funding for your startup.

    Vouch for your Intellectual Property

    Even when you do not have any cash in hand and hard assets for your business, you can show your credibility to the investors. One of the best ways to do this is to make them believe in your intellectual property.

    If you are able to demonstrate your business idea effectively and ensure the investors that you will work towards your brand and will protect them from infringement by other business entities, you show your company’s credibility to them and make your pitch more investable.

    Show your credibility

    One of the most effective ways to show your worthiness is to be clear and confident about your past records and professional accomplishments. It is important that you present all the sources of funding that you would have acquired in the past (if any), and present all the successes that you have had in the past. Become very sure to explain to the investors how you were successful and support it with tangible and quantifiable evidence.

    Where to find Pre-Seed Investors in India?

    After you have got to know about the steps to acquire Pre-seed funding, you need to now find the investors. This is one of the most challenging parts for many entrepreneurs.

    Today’s investors do not accept unsolicited pitches and usually, they let them pitch you after an introduction from someone within their network. Here you will find a few ways to get your business to those who will invest in it and can fund it.

    Family & Friends

    Using your personal connections and network to invest in your business in the initial stage is a very flexible and safe option for pre-seed funding. People who have seen your journey, dedication, and passion will be willing to put funds into your ideas. If your friends and family see potential in you and your startup idea, then they would be definitely investing their money in your business.

    Pre-seed Funding Platforms

    Number of early-stage venture capital deals worldwide
    Number of early-stage venture capital deals worldwide

    In the industry, there are many pre-seed funding platforms that encourage businesses and startups at their base-development stage by providing them with small amounts of funds to initiate their business activities. Through Pre-seed funding platforms, your business will get an opportunity to start your operations and get access to the market.

    A few common Pre-seed funding platforms include:

    • Unitus Seed Fund
    • Infuse ventures
    • Kae Capital
    • Blume Ventures

    Crowdfunding Platforms

    Crowdfunding is an excellent way to generate pre-seed funds for your business or startup. Though equity-based crowdfunding is illegal in India, donor-based and reward-based crowdfunding options are entirely legal. Raising a small amount of money from large masses through crowdfunding platforms can be a good way of acquiring pre-seed funds for your venture.

    Business Incubators

    There are various incubators in the industry who are willing to make small-scale investments into startups and businesses in the form of pre-seed investments. Their aim and motive are to support and assist early-age entrepreneurs in pursuing substantial market opportunities. In India, a few great incubators are:

    • Advantage
    • Seedfund
    • StartupXseed
    • Incubate Fund India
    • Better Capital Labs

    Pitch Competitions

    One of the best ways to get in front of investors is to participate in pitch competitions. All you need to do is practice your pitch, mark a good impression, prove yourself and strike a pre-seed funding deal. Such startup pitch competitions have become very common today and it is a very good way of winning funds for your business idea.

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    Conclusion

    Although anyone can bootstrap, some unique and revolutionary ideas need Pre-funding to be invested in the idea. Some people give up on their dream because they think getting pre-seed funding is near impossible and in fact, magical. But not the real entrepreneurs. They hustle, plan and reach the best person who believes in their ideas and invests in them. They find such people by strategizing and expanding their network, at the same time.

    Remember, you can reach anyone. There is a difference of only 6 people between you and that person. And if you keep expanding your network, you will reach that perfect investor who actually believes in your idea and invest in it.

    FAQs

    What is Pre-seed funding?

    In simple words, Pre-seed funding is the capital needed to start any business. It is acquired by investors to develop the business in return for equity in the company.

    What is the average amount of pre-seed funding in India?

    Most startups expect $500,000 or less pre-seed funding from investors.

    How much equity is given in the seed rounds?

    Most founders usually sell 10% to 20% equity in seed rounds.

    Where can entrepreneurs find Pre-seed funding?

    Entrepreneurs can find Pre-seed funding from several sources:

    • Family & Friends
    • Pre-seed Funding Platforms
    • Crowdfunding Platforms
    • Business Incubators
    • Pitch Competitions

    How to get pre-seed funding in India?

    Some tips to get pre-seed funding in India:

    • Have Financial and Profitable Clarity
    • Keep your Business Proofs Ready
    • Vouch for your Intellectual Property
    • Show your credibility

  • What to Look for in a Startup Mentor?

    This article is contributed by multiple Startup founders from different fields.

    The journey of entrepreneurship is long and tiring, somehow or the other you may find a need to look for a mentor, who can play a vital role in the success of your business. They will help you in facing the different challenges, that will come forward in the entire process.  There are many successful entrepreneurs who actually mentor aspiring entrepreneurs but not everyone can be your mentor. So while looking for one, entrepreneurs must understand what they actually need.

    In this article, we will find out what to look for in a startup mentor. Some of the successful entrepreneurs shared their views on this topic. Let’s take a look.

    Manav Shah  | Founder, Eduvacancy

    I would personally tell everyone who is looking for a mentor to network. Keep networking and building your connections. On the contrary, I would recommend young individuals to start building their connections from a very early age. The thing with networking is that you never really know who you would end up meeting. I would advise all young entrepreneurs to keep exploring and meeting different people from all walks of life. Not necessary you will find your mentor from the same industry or similar surroundings.

    Besides networking entrepreneurs should look for individuals who love taking up challenging tasks and overcoming those challenges. When you are picking your mentor also try evaluating what leadership skills you want to set in your organization. Accordingly, find a mentor who has been successful in creating a similar leadership skill set in their lives. Another suggestion I would like to give is to find a mentor who helps you build your network. Therefore in all when someone is looking for a mentor they need to evaluate how the mentor will advance their overall career.

    Kunal Ahirwar | CEO & Co-Founder, Earnvestt Technologies

    The most important quality in any mentor is availability and desire to help. I would recommend that anyone looking for mentorship needs to find people that invest in their growth journey both personally and professionally.

    Utkarsh Gupta | Managing Director, Ramagya Mart

    A mentor is not someone who has experiences and degrees medaled on their profile, or how much engagement or following they have on social media. For me, a mentor is someone that I can speak to for direction and decision-making when fear, uncertainty, and doubt looms.
    If you are looking for a mentor, do not start by keeping the cost of engagement in mind because ‘the best from the rest’ does not come cheap. What you should look for are:

    • How well your mentor understands your need and how well he summarizes it; it means they heard you well.
    • Look for energy, positivity, and the spark that clicks a chord with you. These are effects that bring positivity to an equation.
    • Pick a mentor who shares your values and ethics of business and a similar understanding of business success.

    Neha Indoria | Co-Founder, Boingg!

    You need to ask 4 questions when looking at someone to be your mentor :

    • Do you trust this person?
    • Will they be accessible to you?
    • Do they bring a new perspective to the table?
    • Are they addressing a specific gap with their knowledge?

    Pallavi Utagi | Founder & Mom-in Chief, SuperBottoms

    • Have mentors across age groups and walks of life.
    • Communicate clearly that you are seeking mentorship. Sometimes people
      tend to idolise someone from a distance and don’t muster the courage to let
      the person knows that they are seeking mentorship.
    • Have a professional mentor, who is outside of your organisation for
      complete objectivity.

    Ritesh Ujjwal | CEO & Co-Founder, Kofluence

    I feel, in the Indian context, mentorship is still largely under leveraged which may be due to cultural reasons. I would strongly recommend for everyone to seek mentors from their immediate circle or extended circle, to begin with if you’ve not yet got one. Once, you’ve been nurtured by the initial set of mentors during the initial part of your career, then you should up the game by seeking mentors who have gone through the journey earlier.

    Conclusion

    While looking for the ideal mentor for you and your business, you need to first decipher what you qualities you actually need in your mentor, then only you can find the perfect one for yourself. Amidst thousands of people, they will not only help you in developing your skills but also provide the support and confidence, when you need some.

  • Startup India: An Initiative by the Government for the Young Entrepreneurs

    The time we are living in, startups are making the loudest noise all over the world. People are being brave and are keen on transforming their ideas into reality. Almost every country is experiencing a rise of startups across industries; young entrepreneurs are striving hard to fulfill their vision without any fear. This is not only about the growth of an individual but it is also contributing to the growth of the countries.

    Just like all other countries, India is also experiencing the same rise. Not only that, it has become the biggest hub of Startups in the world. In this article, we will talk about how the initiative by the Government of India to create an ecosystem where Startups can flourish and how in the last six years, this initiative has been able to help young entrepreneurs and their startups. So, without any further ado, let’s get started.

    “What do you need to start a business? Three simple things: know your product better than anyone. Know your customer, and have a burning desire to succeed.”

    –Dave Thomas

    What is Startup India?
    What is a Startup as per DIPP?
    Benefits Provided by Startup India
    Current Startup Scenario in India
    Startup India: The Innovation Week
    FAQ

    What is Startup India?

    Startup India is an initiative taken by the Indian Government; it was first announced in the year 2015 by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi. The campaign was launched on January 16th of 2016.

    Basically, the main aim of this campaign is to provide an ecosystem where the Government will empower all the new Startup ventures and of course to encourage the innovation culture. Overall, this initiative is also in a role to stimulate entrepreneurship, economic growth, technological growth, innovation growth, and the employment of the country.

    What is a Startup as per DIPP?

    Though most of us more or less know what a startup is, mainly because today we are almost surrounded by startups, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DIPP) has defined the startup companies, as per the government of India. By the term “startup”, DIPP has mentioned the companies that are within 10 years from the date when they were incorporated/registered. Furthermore, the turnover of the company shall not be exceeding the 100 crore mark for any of the financial years since its incorporation/registration. Besides, it is obvious that the startup should have its headquarters in India to be recognized as an Indian startup. Along with that, DIPP also recognizes the startups that are registered with either of the following legal frameworks:

    • The registration of the company should be under the Companies Act of 2013; or,
    • Section 59 of the Partnership Act of 1932, as a partnership firm; or,
    • Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2002, as a limited liability partnership.

    Benefits Provided by Startup India

    Some of the benefits that Startup India provides to the young entrepreneurs of the country are:

    • One has to register through a mobile app or a website for their startup. It is quite easy and anyone who is interested can fill up a form and the whole process is online.
    • While filing the patents, startups will get an 80% reduction on that cost. Plus, the Government will deal with the facilitator fees and the startup will only pay the statutory fees.
    • The Government of India as per the initiative has created a ₹10,000 Crore fund and it will be invested in the startups as their venture capitals.
    • Startups will be free from paying three years of income tax if they get a certificate from Inter-Ministerial Board.
    • Research parks to be set up and it will give out several facilities in the R&D sector.
    • A number of compliances are provided to the Startups that will ensure saving of time and money.
    • People who are investing in startups will receive an exemption from tax, this will help in attracting more investors for the startups in the country.
    • The startups can choose from the investors, who want to get funds for their business.
    • One can close their startup within 90 days from the date of application of closing it up.
    • Every year nationally and internationally the Government has decided to host two fests where the startups will be able to interact with each other.

    Current Startup Scenario in India

    In the last few years, hundreds of Startups have been founded in the country and it is just increasing with time. Some of them have already made it to the list of Unicorns in India. For those who are not aware of what Unicorn is, basically, the term means a startup that has a valuation of $1 billion.

    Top Indian Startup Unicorns in 2021

    Right now, the country has over 83 Unicorns and has become the third-largest Unicorn hub in the world. The industries with the most numbers of Unicorns in the country are Fintech, SaaS, and e-commerce.

    Bengaluru has emerged to be the city with the most number of Unicorns. Not only that, India has four Decacorns as well. Decacorns are those startups that have a value of $10 billion and above.

    Startup India: The Innovation Week

    The year 2022 is even bigger than the last year for startups in terms of the rising number of startups and unicorns. The day before the 6thanniversary of Startup India, on the ongoing celebration of innovation week, the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi has interacted with over 150 startups from different sectors through video conferencing. He announced that the 16th of January will be observed as the National Startup Day in the country.


    The PM also said that the Startups are going to be the backbone of the country. He firmly advised the youth to indulge in the world of startup and “innovate for India and from India” and to also focus on the semi-urban and rural part of the country with their startups. Apart from that, he firmly believes that when India will complete its 100 years of independence, Startups will be playing a major role in the country.

    Conclusion

    It has been over 6 years since the StartupIndia initiative was launched many have benefited from it and it will continue encouraging the startup world of India. Young entrepreneurs have started dreaming fearlessly and are continuously striving to make those dreams a reality. An initiative like Startup India is just focusing on pushing those dreams to the peak of success.

    FAQ

    Who are eligible for Startup India?

    Any business that has a turnover of not more than ₹100 Crore is eligible for Startup India.

    What are the top 10 startups in India?

    Unacademy, Udaan, CRED, upGrad, Razorpay, Meesho, Skyroot Aerospace, boAt, Urban Company, AgniKul Cosmos are top startups of India.

    What is the main aim of startup India?

    Startup India is a flagship initiative of the Government of India, intended to catalyze startup culture and build a strong and inclusive ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship in India.

  • Goa Startup Policy: Here’s What You Don’t Know About It

    ‌Goa is considered a very famous tourist attraction. But Goa has been in everyone’s focus recently and that is not because of its tourist point. According to the recent reports and the updated startup policy of Goa, it is looked up to be considered as a top 25 place for startups in Asia by the year 2025. To accomplish these goals, a few guidelines along with a policy was introduced in the year 2017 by the Goa Government.

    Reasons To Select Goa As A Startup Place
    Updated Goa Startup Policy 2021
    Effects Of Goa Startup Policy
    FAQs

    Reasons To Select Goa As A Startup Place

    Before going up to the exact topic, we should first consider our option of selecting Goa as a destination for Startup.

    Goa is considered a beautiful place to spend your vacation over there. But along with that, it is also considered a good option to build up your business in Goa. This place has good Infrastructure to look up as our first option in the favour of selecting Goa as a place of Startup. It has a good setup of water connection and electricity supply.

    Another reason to select Goa as a place for Startup is the reason behind it being less expensive than the cities like Mumbai, Delhi, etc. The accommodation and renting services are less expensive than some other popular places.

    The living standards of Goan people are quite impressive. They are almost perfect to serve or help you in your startup by giving up their precious time in your startup. The lifestyle lived by the people of Goa is considered to be capable of maintaining a proper work-life balance.

    The other reason to consider Goa can be because of its growing technical aspects and many technology hubs taking up their bases in Goa. As it is very much involved with tourists, your startup can have a chance of getting in touch with different people depending upon your business field.

    If you are looking to start a startup in the management field, you can get many opportunities there. Another great point to note is that it is well connected and quite easy to travel up to Goa from anywhere in India.

    With these many reasons to consider, we can say with confidence that Goa is a good place for Startup.

    Updated Goa Startup Policy 2021

    The Vision for the updated Goa Startup Policy is to make it one of the most preferred Startup Destinations in India. And to also make Goa count up in the top 25 Startup destinations of Asia by the year 2025.

    The updated version of the Goa Startup Policy was concerned with adding up a few changes in the old policy all depending upon the required alterations.

    The vision was the same for earlier as well as the updated Startup Policy provided by the government of Goa.

    The objectives of the updated version of Startup Policy with their simple meanings are explained below:

    1. The updated version of the policy is to make Goa a good place for high-value startups by availing the facility of good geographical features as well human resources.
    2. The process of building a robust startup place by inviting the best business-minded people to set up their base in Goa.
    3. To assist and appreciate local businesses that are Goan startups and Goan enterprises.
    4. To provide approx 6000 job opportunities to Goan people. The process is to convert approx 500 innovative and technology-enabled startups and build sustainable startups in Goa by fulfilling their necessary demands and presenting them with the facility of support for the next 3 years.
    5. To provide the essential support to different field firms such as developing technology and innovation hubs, centers of excellence, R&D labs, Incubation centers for the next 3 years.
    6. The involvement of technology-based studies in the curriculum of students. This can be done by including the collaboration of industry and academics and by introducing DIY modules in the curriculum of students in the Goan Education System. Along with these, there can be a few online courses for students that can be included in the University curriculum.
    7. To create a stable environment and prepare Goan students to be able to work for high-level startups while achieving a great result in their professional growth.
    8. To keep a track of the progress related to policy and evaluate its pros and cons. This is to make the best policy that can increase the growth rate of startups and allow frontiers to set up their business over her as for technology enablement as per ongoing situations.
    9. To provide and arrange the funds for their support by different means to motivate the startups:
    • The idea to P-o-C (Proof of Concept) Fund
    • Seed Loan Fund
    • Working Capital Fund
    • Women Entrepreneurs Development Fund.
    • Research & Development Fund
    • Student Innovation Fund
    • Skill Development Fund
    • Incubation Support Fund

    The major difference or adaptation of objectives is done based on two factors only:

    The first is to create an opportunity for at least 6000 employment for this to be achieved, 500 innovative startups were required and the support given to them is for 3 years only. Whereas in the earlier policy, there was just the need of creating 100 successful startups to provide 5000 job employment with the support being given up for 5 years.

    Another major difference is in the funds provided to startups. The updated startup policy has also given special attention to women, as it has provided the facility of funds for women entrepreneurs. This facility was missing in the earlier policy.

    We can say after the updated policy came, it is easier for women also to start their startups in Goa.

    This term of policy will be active for three years from the date of notification.

    Effects Of Goa Startup Policy

    From the time it was implemented in the year 2017, it has been proved to be a success for some people. According to the current status, there are approx. 111 startups being successfully introduced and are seen stepping the ladder of success.

    The funds given to those startups have a total count of approx. 1.1 crores. And they are provided with the facilities promised by the goa government.

    In the year 2021, there has been a new policy, or can be said as the updated version of the old policy was introduced. The main aim was to employ approx. 6000 people. The other thing that it focuses on is local firms. The updated policy is to provide them with funds for their development. It also focuses on the promotion of employing local people for their benefit. And the most important focus is to educate their students with some particular knowledge right from the start of their education system.

    Earlier, when this policy was introduced, there was the main focus of only one field and that is the IT sector. However, this time it has been kept open for all sectors.

    When there are innovations taking place in a world, women are also a strong part of them. Similarly, in the earlier policy, there were no specific funds kept for women which sometimes used to make them hesitate. However, the updated policy will allow them to start their startup with proper funds being provided to them through the government of Goa and funds collected for them.

    The earlier policy had a great effect on Goa and was proved to be successful till the termination. But the proper result for the new policy is still awaited and can be fully appreciated only after it starts showing its effects.

    The overall condition of goa startups is quite good and is attracting the attention of many big companies.

    Conclusion

    Startups are considered as the revolutionary practices of the market. The destination of startups is one of the most important factors to worry about.

    Goa is considered within the best destination places for startups. With its updated version of startups terms and policy, it is a much better option to build up the base of your startup in Goa.

    FAQs

    Is Goa good for startups?

    Yes, with the new Goa Startup Policy. Goa is good for startups. Because of its great infrastructure and affordable real estate. It becomes a feasible environment for a startup.

    What is the main business in Goa?

    The main business of goa includes Tourism, Agriculture, and Mining. But with the need of other businesses. A startup idea that can work well can be also a business in Goa.

    How can I start a business in Goa?

    You can start with Photography, Fish Farming, Travel agencies, Rental agency, Guesthouses, Spa and wellness, Commercial transportation, Restaurants/beach shack, etc.

  • How to Start an Oxygen Cylinder Plant Business In India? (Complete Guide)

    The Covid-19 pandemic taught us the importance of oxygen in our life. People were yearning for the most underrated thing, especially during the second wave of the pandemic in India. Somehow that underestimation resulted in hundreds of deaths in the country. The devastating display of what shortage of oxygen can do was seen all over the media during the second wave and honestly, it was heart-wrenching.

    Any kind of beginning of a business depends on the demand or potential of that thing in the market. Saving lives is a noble deed, so what’s better than starting a business, which can saves lives, literally. The Covid-19 creates a huge demand for oxygen cylinders in the market, mostly in hospitals. So, starting an oxygen cylinder plant in a country that is in need of it, seems to be a good idea.

    Although to follow up on this plan is a lot of work. So, let’s dive into the matter and find out how to start an Oxygen cylinder plant business in India.

    “Business is all about solving people’s problems – at a profit.”

    ― Paul Marsden

    Things that are needed for an Oxygen Cylinder Plant
    Equipment’s Needed for an Oxygen Cylinder Plant
    Things To Keep In Mind before starting an Oxygen Cylinder Plant
    Transportation of Oxygen Cylinder Plant
    License Needed For Oxygen Cylinder Plant Business
    How to Market your Oxygen Cylinder Plant Business
    FAQ

    Things that are needed for an Oxygen Cylinder Plant

    The Covid-19 pandemic may seem the reason but other than that there are other health-related issues that people suffer from, which can only be solved by oxygen cylinders. It can actually bring a ‘breath’ of relief, so the need for it has become more significant now. Following things are required for the business. First and foremost, a proper business plan is required to start with the business. The following things are what is needed.

    Proper Training

    Before indulging in this business, one needs to learn a lot of things, which include safety procedures. A proper training program will help in understanding the key details, that’ll be an asset in the future. It includes the positives, negatives and the risk that involved in this business.

    Investment

    Investment is one of the most if not the most important things that is needed for any kind of business. If someone wants to start an oxygen plant, at least ₹30 to ₹35 Lakhs is needed for the setup of the plant, so that it can deliver up to 24 cylinders every day. A proper location is also needed to construct the plant. It is not a small business, so naturally, a heavy amount is needed from the very first.

    Manufacturing

    To get a general idea, the manufacturer of a cylinder of oxygen should be contacted. They will provide the proper instruction from A to Z. i.e. from the manufacturing of oxygen in the plant to the filling of the cylinder with oxygen.

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    Equipment’s Needed for an Oxygen Cylinder Plant

    Some extra equipment is needed for the entire setup of the plant. These equipment’s will help in getting pure oxygen instead of harmful materials, they are:

    • PLC Control Panel
    • Vacuum Chambers
    • Glass Chambers
    • Injector wells
    • Solid State generators

    Apart from all these, some other machinery are also needed in the cylinders, they are:

    • Oxygen Mask
    • Cannula
    • Pressure Gauge
    • Flowmeter
    • Other things to fit the system altogether

    Proper installation of every piece of equipment is necessary for the entire plant to avoid the oxygen from getting polluted.

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    Things To Keep In Mind before starting an Oxygen Cylinder Plant

    Just because someone wants to open an oxygen cylinder plant, they can, it’s not that simple. Some additional rules are necessary to be followed:

    1. All rules and regulations are to be maintained while dealing with oxygen cylinders and their supply.

    2. The oxygen in the gas cylinder has to be pure.

    3. It must not contain any toxins or other chemical elements that can be harmful.

    4. The oxygen has to be clean and pollution-free.

    Transportation of Oxygen Cylinder Plant

    The supply of oxygen will be mainly for medical uses and industry purposes. So while transferring them to hospitals or any medical center, special attention needs to be given. Oxygen in the cylinder is kept at high pressure, so the vehicle that’ll be used to transport the cylinders must be careful enough to avoid cylinders colliding with each other. If proper steps are not taken, it can cause an explosion. You should also review the Department of Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Transport Standards before transporting oxygen cylinders.

    License Needed For Oxygen Cylinder Plant Business

    As it is related to medical business, it surely needs some special permission:

    • Permission from the local board of the location the business will be set up is needed.
    • Incorporation Laws of the state must be scrutinized to know the rules of starting a legal and proper business. Also you need to register your business before you start your business.

    How to Market your Oxygen Cylinder Plant Business

    In any kind of business, marketing is important. Without marketing, a business can never flourish. Although it is a time where oxygen cylinder has huge demand, still marketing is important, to achieve a great number of profits. Some of the methods for advertising are:

    • Handing out flyers containing information about your oxygen plant to the people.
    • Contacting local media to get their presence known among the targeted customers.
    • Making the business presence felt on social media by posting about itself.

    Conclusion

    To start an oxygen cylinder manufacturing plant in recent times, can be beneficial as the second wave of the Covid-19 leads to a shortage of oxygen all over the country. It is a good time to provide quality products to the people in need.  A business that can save people while gaining profits for itself is surely an interesting and better option than just sitting and watching people suffer. One just needs to take a brave step and follow all the rules that can lead to a safe start of a business. It will do the noble job of saving lives and also will help in earning millions.

    FAQ

    Is Investing on an Oxygen Cylinder Plant profitable in India?

    Yes, Investing in an oxygen cylinder plant can be quite profitable as the demand for oxygen cylinders is not ending soon.

    What is the Cost of an Oxygen Cylinder?

    The minimum cost of a 10.2 Litre of oxygen cylinder is ₹4500 and the maximum is ₹6500.

    Which Company makes Oxygen Cylinders In India?

    National Oxygen Limited, Axcel Gases, and Swastik Synergy Engineering Private Limited are some of the top oxygen manufacturers in India.