Starting and growing a business in India is highly rewarding, but one challenge every entrepreneur faces is arranging adequate funds to keep things running smoothly. This is where India’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) step in as true game-changers.
With nearly 40 million MSMEs spread across both organized and unorganized sectors, they not only generate millions of jobs but also contribute close to 40% of the country’s GDP.
The Indian government has introduced various subsidies and loan schemes that make it easier for business owners to secure funds, expand operations, and be competitive. From easing the pressure of high-interest loans to providing financial support for growth, these schemes aim to address real challenges like unemployment and limited access to credit.
In this article, we will know some of the most government subsidy schemes in India. These initiatives can help entrepreneurs and small business owners turn their ideas into sustainable growth.
Why Government Schemes Are Crucial for Startups and MSMEs?
In the dynamic world of startups and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), government schemes can often be the difference between survival and exponential growth. These initiatives are designed to empower entrepreneurs with resources that go beyond capital, offering a holistic support system to nurture innovation and competitiveness.
Key Benefits of Government Schemes:
Key Benefits of Government Schemes
Access to Capital: Many schemes offer direct funding, low-interest loans, and credit guarantees, helping startups and MSMEs launch, expand, or pivot without the constant pressure of private financing.
Market Expansion Opportunities: Through initiatives promoting domestic and international trade, startups gain huge market access, helping them reach new customers and scale globally.
R&D Support and Patent Assistance: Schemes often include grants for research and development, along with patent filing support, enabling innovators to protect and commercialize their ideas effectively.
Mentorship and Regulatory Relief: Government programs often offer guidance from industry experts and simplified regulatory processes, reducing the compliance burden and fostering informed business decisions.
Employment Generation Incentives – Startups and MSMEs creating jobs can benefit from subsidies, tax rebates, and other incentives, aligning business growth with national economic development goals.
Fact Check: India is currently the 3rd largest startup ecosystem in the world and aims to support over 1 million startups by 2035, reflecting a robust policy framework geared toward entrepreneurship and innovation.
List of Major Government Subsidies to Boost Businesses in India
India offers a range of government subsidies and support programs to help businesses grow, innovate, and compete in both domestic and global markets. These initiatives provide funding, tax benefits, and mentorship, making it easier for startups, MSMEs, and franchise owners to scale their operations efficiently.
1. Startup India Scheme
Startup India Scheme
Best for: Early-stage startups
Key Benefits:
3-year income tax exemption to reduce the initial financial burden.
Fast-track patent filing to protect innovative ideas quickly.
Self-certification under 9 labor and environmental laws.
Access to Startup India Seed Fund and Fund of Funds, providing crucial capital for growth.
Eligibility Criteria:
Must be registered as a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Partnership.
Turnover less than INR 100 crore.
Business operational for less than 10 years.
Should have an innovative and scalable business model.
2. MSME Business Loans in 59 Minutes
MSME Business Loans in 59 Minutes
Best for: New and existing MSMEs seeking quick financial support
Key Benefits:
Fast approval within 59 minutes, enabling businesses to access funds quickly.
Loan amounts up to INR 1 crore, helping MSMEs expand operations or manage working capital.
Interest rates start from 8.5%, depending on the business type.
Process completion in 8–12 days, ensuring minimal delay for fund utilization.
Best for: Startups in healthcare, education, and agriculture
Key Benefits:
Grants up to INR 10 crore for innovative projects
Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) and Atal Incubation Centers (AIC) support schools and startups
Funding for prototype development, market research, and capacity building
Highlights:
Promotes innovation and entrepreneurship across sectors
Provides financial and mentorship support to scale ideas
7. Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme
Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme
Best for: Manufacturers in electronics, technology, pharmaceuticals, and automotive sectors
Key Benefits:
Financial incentives to boost domestic manufacturing
Encourages “Make in India” by providing extra benefits for locally produced goods
Government allocation of INR 1.97 lakh crore for promoting industrial growth
Highlights:
Strengthens India’s manufacturing ecosystem
Supports innovation, investment, and global competitiveness
8. Stand-Up India
Stand-Up India
Designed for: SC/ST and women entrepreneurs
Key Benefits:
Loans from INR 10 lakh to INR 1 crore for new businesses focus on greenfield projects, encouraging fresh startups
Up to 75% of the project cost is covered through financing
Available via all commercial banks, making access easier
Highlights:
Promotes inclusive entrepreneurship and supports underrepresented groups
Helps startups overcome financial barriers to launch and scale
9. National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) Subsidy
National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) Subsidy
Best for: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
Key Benefits:
Promotion support to help businesses grow and reach new markets
Credit assistance for loans at low interest rates
Raw material support to ensure smooth production
NSIC facilitated loans worth INR 236 crore for MSMEs in 2020–21
Highlights:
Helps small businesses improve credit scores and access financing
Supports overall growth and operational efficiency for MSMEs
10. Market Development Assistance (MDA) Scheme
Market Development Assistance (MDA) Scheme
Best for: MSMEs looking to expand into domestic and international markets
Key Benefits:
Funding support for participation in trade shows, exhibitions, and buyer-seller meets
Helps MSMEs showcase products and connect with global buyers
Facilitates international shipments, boosting export potential
Highlights:
Strengthens market presence for Indian MSMEs
Supports growth and competitiveness in both domestic and global markets
Conclusion
In 2025, India’s startup and MSME ecosystem will be stronger and more supportive than ever, thanks to a range of government schemes designed to fuel entrepreneurship and innovation. From tax exemptions, collateral-free loans, and credit guarantees to funding for research, market development, and international expansion, the government is creating an environment where businesses can grow with reduced risk.
By strategically implementing these schemes, startups and MSMEs can accelerate growth, enhance competitiveness, and contribute to job creation and economic development, making the journey of entrepreneurship smoother, smarter, and more sustainable in India’s dynamic business landscape.
ish farming is the process of raising aquatic organisms commercially in a controlled or semi-controlled environment to increase productivity. It is possible to raise many different kinds of fish from table fare to exotic tropical species. Most of the people are growing fish for harvesting and selling to restaurants. Also, many fish farms operate as fun places where individuals and families are able to go fishing. Let us discuss how to start fish farming business.
Fish farming is the fastest-growing food production segment in the world. Fish is a protein-rich, tasty, and healthy food with low cholesterol. So, fish and fish-related products have great demand all over the world. Fish farm business has a significant role in the economy. It offers so many job opportunities in ancillary services and operations. This business demands day-to-day careful monitoring, skills, and special knowledge.
Commercial fish farming is considered an economically profitable business venture. There are so many types of fast-growing species available. So, this business ensures quick returns on your investment. The fish consumption rate is increasing every year. Irresponsible harvesting of fish leads to the depletion of natural species and the extinction of some species. So, fish farming is a way to conserve species and prevent the depletion of natural resources.
How to Start Fish Farming?
People with different jobs and occupations are able to start this business. You can raise funds from investors or take a loan from the bank. You can start a fish farming business through these 8 steps as given below.
Steps to Start Fishery Business
Step 1. Select the Type of Fish Farming
The first thing you need to consider when starting a fish farm is the type of fish that you are going to use for the fish farming business. Selecting the right species of fish plays an important role in the success of the fish farming business plan. The decision should be based on a maintenance point of view, market demand, management outlook, and availability of resources, etc. Some of the popular fish farming business ideas that give good returns are given below.
Tilapia Fish Farming
Tilapia is a popular fish in the market. Its large size, high protein content, and quick growth (6 to 7 months) are the main reasons that make tilapia fish farming highly popular and profitable. In commercial fish farming, earth ponds are mostly used.
Catfish Farming
Commercial catfish farming is considered profitable fish farming. The farmers are able to start catfish farming alone or in combination with other species. Also, this fish farming can be started on a small-scale basis and with relatively low cost.
Crab Farming
Commercial crab farming can be done with minimal labor and land in smaller areas and at higher densities. Mud crab is a good aquaculture species due to its price, market acceptability, and rapid growth.
Carp Fish Farming
Carp fish shows a high tendency to consume animal food, including worms, water insects, mollusks, larvae of insects, and zooplankton. The eating habits of the fish play an important role in the profitability of carp farming.
Salmon Fish Farming
Salmon farming is the production of salmon from egg to market in a container system, net-cage, or pond. Salmon fish are carnivores. We need to use around 2 to 5 kilograms of wild fish in feed to produce one kilogram of farmed salmon.
Global Fish Production From 2013 to 2023
Step 2. Understand the Target Market
Business planning and feasibility analysis are important to be done before starting a fish farming business. Also, we should do deep market research before starting a fish farming business. Try to understand the local market demand. If you are going to begin aquaculture for export, talk to the fish processing units beforehand. Develop an alternative marketing strategy. Consumer types will differ depending on the type of fish you are raising.
If you are raising fish for commercial food products, re-stocking, or sport, then your base will contain large businesses. It requires a higher quantity of fish. Some consumers may include state or federal organizations that re-stock natural resources. If you are raising fish for pets or aquariums, your consumer group will be pet shops and specialty fish dealers. Customers may choose to contact you directly to remove the mediators and to expedite sales.
Step 3. Learn the Skills Required for Fish Farming
It is important to have some skills when starting a fish farming business. Some government-run farms conduct training programs. You can attend those types of programs to learn skills. Also, we can learn skills through working at a successful fish farm. It will teach you how to perform disease control, water quality management, marketing, feeding, and processing. There are some important things that we need to pay attention to when starting a fish farming business, which are given below:
Make sure that you have a consistent quality water source.
Check if your water temperature is suitable for raising fish species.
Make sure that you have easy access to the pond for harvesting and feeding.
Test the water in which you are beginning fish farming, both bacteriological and chemical.
Understand the modern technical method of risk management and risk assessment.
Finding reliable suppliers for fingerlings, fish eggs, and fish feed is important.
Learn about the permission and legal compliance needed to start a fish farming business in your locality.
The fish farming business includes two types of capital investment. They are fixed capital costs and operating costs. Fixed capital cost includes crafting ponds, land & building, plumbing arrangements, vehicles for transport, oxygen meters, several tanks, etc. Operating costs include buying fingerlings or fish eggs, electricity, fish feed, labor, fuel, medicine, chemicals, insurance, tax, telephone, transportation, and other maintenance costs involved.
You should prepare a detailed cost calculation of your fish farming project before entering into the business. The calculations will vary depending on the type of fish that you are choosing for fish farming, the total land area, and your desired output. Costs will vary depending on the size and scope of the project you are starting.
If you are making an aquarium-based farm, you will require tanks and pumps, water aerators, fish food and refrigerators, free/eggs or initial parent fish, water testing kits and equipment, etc. If you are starting a commercial fish farm, you will require land for ponds, a boat, a motor, equipment for excavating ponds, aerators, reclamation devices, fish food, equipment for managing and cleaning the pond, and fish processing equipment, and commercial-sized pumps, etc.
Step 5. Select the Right Location for Fish Farming
Some factors need to be considered while selecting the land for fish farming. It includes soil quality, size, and source of water. Choose a place that is big enough. Also, consider your plans so that size does not limit you when expanding your business. The soil quality directly affects the quantity and the quality of fish you get. So, choose a place with high-quality soil. You must do a soil test to make sure that it is at least over 20% clay, and also, check the relative level of space.
It is important to make sure that this place is not easily flooded. It will help you to prevent dirty water from entering the bond. The land should have fewer rocks. The continuous flow of water is the most important factor in fish farming. If you want to start a fish farm in the city or town area, you must have access to the municipal water source. If you want to start in a village area, it is essential to find a place near a stream, lake, or river.
Step 6: Get Permits
Secure all required permits and licenses before starting operations. Reach out to relevant local government departments to make sure you meet all legal obligations. This includes adhering to environmental, health, and safety regulations. Proper compliance not only ensures smooth functioning but also helps avoid legal penalties and delays. Always keep documentation up to date and accessible for inspections.
Step 7. Procurement of Equipment Needed for Fish Farming
The process of launching a fish farm is the same for small and large-scale farmers. Some of the basic equipment and tools required for a fish farming business are given below.
Pumps
Fish counters
Water testing equipment
Net/Seine reels
Fish tanks/Ponds
Aeration devices
Fish graders
Pumps are used to pump water in or out of the pond. These pumps are well-equipped. Also, it helps to make sure that you have a constant supply of water for the pond. Water testing equipment is used to help in testing the water. We can determine if the water is good for the fish by using this device.
The net collects all fish species together for the harvest. They help to catch large numbers of fish. Fish tanks or ponds are designed to raise large quantities of fish for marketing and harvesting. They are constructed to provide a better environment for the fish. Aeration equipment enables the good flow of oxygen within the pond.
Efficient management plays a key role in running a successful fishing business. This involves consistently checking water quality, ensuring proper feeding schedules, preventing and treating diseases, and protecting the stock from predators. Daily observation helps detect problems early and maintain healthy fish growth. Maintaining records of farm activities also supports better planning and decision-making. A well-managed farm leads to higher yields and sustainable operations.
The fish farming business has various advantages. Unemployment is one of the biggest problems in the current digital world. Raising fish will create so much employment. It will offer job opportunities for transporters, sellers, and farm workers. The increasing popularity of fish as food boosted the fish farming business globally. Also, so many people believe that eating fish will give many benefits. So, there is always a stable and reliable market for the fish business.
FAQs
How to start fish farming?
The steps or requirements for fish farming or fishery business are as below:
Step 1. Select the type of fish farming Step 2. Understand the target market Step 3. Learn the skills required for Fish Farming Step 4. Calculate the cost Step 5. Select the right location for fish farming Step 6. Get License Step 7. Procurement of equipment needed for fish farming Step 8. Implement Proper Farm Management Practices
What are the types of fish farming businesses?
Different types of Fish farming businesses are:
Tilapia Fish Farming
Catfish Farming
Crab Farming
Carp Fish Farming
Salmon Fish Farming
What is the size of fish market?
The global fish farming market size is projected to reach $378,005.5 million by 2027.
How to start fish farming on small scale in India?
To start small-scale fish farming in India, first choose a suitable location with clean water. Decide the type of fish you want to farm, like rohu or catla. Build a pond or use tanks, and get the required licenses from local authorities. Buy healthy fingerlings, ensure proper feeding, and regularly check water quality. Start small, monitor daily, and grow step by step.
We live at a time when having the dream of being an entrepreneur is a good dream to have. The digital world has given us many opportunities which we can utilize and make our entrepreneurship dream come true. Sometimes starting early is a good thing. So, it is not something wrong to look for ideas of entrepreneurship when you are just a student.
Students are filled with an enormous amount of energy and passion. If they get the right direction and motivation, then they can outperform themselves. A student just needs the right mold which shapes them into the right piece. Students look for business ideas as theywant to start their businesses to earn quick bucks and experience which will later make them successful.
We live in the technology era, where with one click you can earn thousands of dollars, but you require the right skill and knowledge. With the right method, you can earn your pocket money or you can even give some gifts to your parents. There are only two rules for a student to start their online business without investment. First, identify the talent that you want to sell and showcase to the world. Secondly, the right medium to showcase your talent to the world. There are numerous methods available to start a business online and a few of the leading and proven business ideas for students without investment which are listed below, have shown astonishing value creation. Starting a zero investment business for students is a great way to gain experience, earn money, and build skills without needing any capital.
Students’ Interest in Entrepreneurship, Dec22-Feb23
Here are all those business ideas for students that requires zero investments.
Top Online Business Ideas for Students Without Investment | Start a Zero Investment Business Today
Become a YouTuber
Yes, posting an amazing video of your singing, acting, or dancing talent or making any quality content video on YouTube can generate plenty of opportunities. Posting videos on YouTube take zero investment but requires plenty of talent to create a viral video that has the potential to become the next sensation. But once you have the viral video content then the number of viewers will start to increase and then you have the opportunity to earn money by endorsing the brands. Many successful YouTubers are generating filthy money with quality content. Some are on an edge of becoming a celebrity and some are a millionaire.
YouTube is a great platform to bring a particular niche front of the world. Three hundred hours of video are uploaded to YouTube every minute and almost 5 billion videos are watched on YouTube every single day. YouTube gets over 30 million visitors per day. So you can understand the power of being a Youtuber.
Create a Group or Page on Social Media
If you like to spend your time on social media and you have plenty of friends on social media, then don’t waste your valuable time on ideal chit-chat and start turning your fan following into a business opportunity. Create a group or page of your interest and add your friends to it and it will act as a golden chance to do brand promotions and advertisements. Creating a group or page allows you to use affiliate marketing as a tool to earn money from different online e-commerce websites.
The easiest and simple way to earn money is by selling viral products on e-commerce websites, like eBay, Flipkart, Amazon, etc. If you have the talent for hunting good and in-demand products which are daily used by consumers then start selling your stuff online right now. Suppose, if you have the talent for creating personalized t-shirts, gifts, etc, then click the picture of your product and post it on the e-commerce website and if you are good at it then your products will be sold out within a few days.
Moreover, selling online is hassle-free as many e-commerce giants provide sellers with an opportunity to collaborate with them and sell their products with ease. From inventory management to shipping products and product photoshoots, all the services are provided by the online shopping portal. This is one of the great potential online business ideas without investment in India for students to generate excellent income.
Start Blogging
Business Idea for Students Without Investment – Blogging
If you have some piled-up thoughts inside you and you know the way to narrate them with correct words, then opt for the method of blogging instead of writing a diary. Publish some interesting stuff that you like and with which readers can connect. However, blogging is free on any platform, you will get brand proposals if you go for the paid domain and good hosting with a very professional interface and posting quality content. Blogs are a good source of income and the kind of best online business for students without investment.
In the initial stage, it will take time to get traffic to your blog, but slowly and steadily you will see a remarkable response from it. Think of a particular niche in which you are good. Do some keyword research to see the correct volume of your audience then start publishing two articles daily. This will push your blog into Google’s search engine and traffic will increase. Moreover, after decent traffic, you can publish a sponsored post and can link a Google Ad-sense account to show advertisements on your blog. Advertisements on blogs are a great source of business. This is a win-win business idea for students that will enhance their learning and also create a significant position in society. Blogging is the online business without investment for students where they can earn well.
Self-Publisher
You can easily write a book and publish it online to earn regular royalty on your masterpiece. Self-publishing is a real thing now, and there is no age limit. If you have expertise in any area of writing, then write a few thousand words about it and package it into an eBook. If you can write, there is great potential for residual income here (the best kind), especially if you snowball with multiple books.
Blogging and writing can be done simultaneously. An article that is a great source of information for all internet users can be converted into an e-book and can be featured on various online e-book platforms. You can even sell that e-book through your blog. This business idea is mostly adapted by upcoming writers. If you as a student want a wealthy career in writing then start with this idea today.
You can easily start a company and offer multiple services to people by being an agent. For example, start a babysitting agency online. Where you get in touch with the students who want to offer babysitting services and on other hand with the parents who regularly want babysitters. So, by this, you can earn a commission from both sides. It’s like an online placement agency, where you can earn quick cash by juggling your contacts. Not just babysitting you can even start with a brokerage for renting or selling out flats to potential buyers. On successful brokerage, you earn a handsome amount of money.
Start a PR Agency
You can start a PR agency, it’s not like you are going to deal with big media houses like big newspapers or TV Channels but you can easily partner with local news blogs or niche blogs (which include people with a huge following on social media) and find people who need publicity among a particular set of people. The process is simple:
You have to first find a client, it can be a shop in your locality, an online businessman in your contact, an event that is going to happen, and others.
Contact all the people who come to your mind. Ask them if they would be interested in the market of their product. Do not finalize the price on the spot.
Make a list of all the resources (Blogs, Instagram Page, etc.) to market their product, contact those people and ask if they can feature your content which will include a little promotion. They may ask you for money but you can also crack a barter deal by providing quality content for them.
Decide how much you want to take from your clients and make money. This is just one function of a PR Agency, you can take on a lot of projects from different clients who want to market their products. Once you have a good contact list of both, the bloggers and the clients, you can easily make a good strategy to make your business big.
Be a Freelancer
Best Online Business Without Investment – Homepage of one of the famous Freelancing websites
If you like to be your boss and want to work under your conditions, then be a freelancer and work as you want. There are numerous websites available where potential buyers advertised for freelancers and you can easily sign up for the job and earn some amazing money. There are websites for freelancers who can take work from numerous potential customers. These websites are easy to use and free to sign up for. No fees or charges are levied on undertaking any work.
Some websites pay you on an hourly basis and some are on a contract basis. There is no restriction and no bar to earning and learning as much as you want. Becoming a freelancer is currently a profession that is chosen by many top entrepreneurs and conglomerates. However, this is the best and ideal business idea without investment for students who want to make a good living during their student life. Freelancing is best business for students without investment.
Start Tutoring
Online learning is a trend. You can earn well if you are good at tutoring. Students weak in their studies seek tutors. You can tutor them either online or offline at your convenience.
You can help students with preparation classes for competitive exams. If you are good at programming, you can teach others by charging a certain fee. Tutoring is one of the most profitable online business with zero investment.
Sell Your Arts
You can use your creativity to come up with good Sketches and Paintings and sell them on Amazon, eBay, and other commercial websites. It will fetch you a good amount of money and will be a profitable business with zero investment.
If you know two or more languages, you can help people and businesses by translating documents, emails, or live conversations. This is important because companies are growing and need to talk to people in different languages.
All you need is a computer and good language skills. It’s a simple way for students to start a business with little to no money and a lot of opportunities. This can be one of the easiest and best online business ideas with zero investment.
Transcription Services
In this job, you listen to audio recordings and type what is said, turning speech into written text. It’s great for students because you only need a computer and good headphones, making it cheap and easy to start. You can work on your own schedule, which helps you balance your studies and get more done. Transcription services are mostly provided online and hence are considered as a profitable online business for students.
Affiliate Marketing
Online Business Ideas Without Investment for Students – Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is like being an online salesperson, but without the stress of a regular sales job. It’s a good business idea for students because it costs nothing to start and helps you make money while learning business skills.
As a student, you can share links from companies to promote their products or services. When someone buys something through your link, you get paid a commission. The best part is you don’t have to make or store any products. This is one of the best online business from home without investment.
Dropshipping E-commerce
Business Idea for Students Without Investment – Dropshipping E-Commerce
Dropshipping lets you sell products online without keeping stock or dealing with shipping. When someone buys from your store, you just send the order to the supplier, and they deliver it to the customer. This is a low-risk way to start an online store with little money upfront. To do well in dropshipping, focus on choosing a specific type of product, finding trustworthy suppliers, and building an easy-to-use website to show your products.
Virtual Assistant Services
A virtual assistant helps clients with creative and technical tasks from home. It’s a good business idea for students with no money to invest, especially if you’re organized and have good communication skills. You can do things like manage emails, enter data, schedule appointments, and more, all from your computer while balancing your studies.
In today’s visual world, businesses need strong and attractive designs to get noticed. A business with a weak visual identity may not attract customers. That’s where graphic designers come in. Graphic designing is a zero-investment business you can start from home. All you need is a laptop and design software. You don’t need a shop or a big team. With good skills, you can even work with top brands and earn well. You can help companies build their brand through great visuals like logos, websites, menus, posters, and more.
For example, a new restaurant might need a logo, menu design, and a website to look professional and appealing. Even big companies are always looking for creative designers to promote their products.
Business Idea for Students Without Investment – Pet Sitting
Pet sitting is a fun and easy business for animal lovers. Many busy people or families on vacation need someone to care for their pets. You can either walk dogs for an hour daily or look after pets for a few days or weeks while the owners are away. It’s a great way to earn money while spending time with animals, and it requires no investment to start.
There are plenty of ways to earn money and still, you will have time for your studies. So, don’t waste your energy and talent, and start generating some money and creating a strong base for your prosperous future. Starting your own business is a great option, with some proper skills and techniques, you can use them for your good and make your journey of entrepreneurship worthwhile.
FAQs
How to start a business without Investment?
Start with Something You’re Passionate About. Passion alone can move mountains for you.
Research Your Market.
Set Financial Goals.
Make the Content Shareable.
Build a Following.
Launch Something You Can Sell.
Which are the best business ideas for students without Investment?
Here are top 10 online business without investment or some investment ideas for students with minimal and no investment in online businesses:
Blogging
Podcasting
Dropshipping
Freelance Writing
Launch An Online Course Or Membership Site
Ghost Writing
Virtual Assistant
Affiliate Marketing
Translation Services
Tutoring
What made entrepreneurs successful?
Passion, resourcefulness, willingness to improvise, listening to others, and strong determination to succeed are what makes an entrepreneur successful.
When we look at a business, one of the reasons behind its success and survival is definitely hard work and persistence. The same goes for a relationship, if you want it to last long, you need to make efforts and give your best, that’s how it works. People say that your significant other is your biggest form of strength and support, when you are building your business from the scratch, this strength and support can be of great help.
Nothing can be better than your life partner becoming your business partner. The trust, mutual respect, and the level of communication that is needed between business partners are already present in the relationship between real-life partners. Both of them are familiar with each other and their working style and know quite well what fuels their passion.
In this article, we will talk about famous couples in business together, and with their hearts and brains, they are conquering the business world. So let’s get right into it.
“The price of success is hard work, dedication to the job at hand, and the determination that whether we win or lose, we have applied the best of ourselves to the task at hand.” – Vince Lombardi
Top Couple Entrepreneurs in India – Ghazal Alagh and Varun Alagh
One of the most successful personal care product brands, Mamaearth was introduced by the dynamic duo of Ghazal Alagh and Varun Alagh in 2016. While expecting their baby at that time, both the couple decided to launch personal care products for babies when they realized, there was a limited number of chemical-free products present in the market.
Now the brand is not only for babies but is making products for everyone. The ingredients used to make the products are all-natural and plant-based and right was the first unicorn of 2022 with its valuation of $1.2 Billion.
Top Couple Entrepreneurs in India – Vineeta Singh and Kaushik Mukherjee
Vineeta Singh and Kaushik Mukherjee started SUGAR Cosmetics in 2012. They wanted to make long-lasting makeup for young people in India. Their products suit Indian skin tones, weather, and lifestyle. Vineeta and Kaushik are one of the most successful business couples in India.
Today, SUGAR Cosmetics sells on its website, big online stores like Nykaa and Myntra, and in many shops and pop-ups across India. It has become a top makeup brand that is affordable and popular. Vineeta Singh is also seen as an investor on Shark Tank India.
Top Couple Entrepreneurs in India – Shubra Chadda and Vivek Prabhakar
This 2010 venture that deals with fashion and home décor products was founded by the couple Shubra Chadda and Vivek Prabhakar. The amount of courage to set their dream company they showed was immeasurable; they sold their apartment in Bangalore to establish Chumbak and struggled together to be where they are now. The company now has over 44 stores in India that sell a variety of lifestyles related products. The current value of the company is $30 Million.
Shikhar Singh & Nidhi Singh – Samosa Singh
Top Couple Entrepreneurs in India – Shikhar Singh & Nidhi Singh
Probably the most loved Indian snack in the country, Samosa has an immense fan following. It is not at all different for Nidhi Singh and Shikhar Singh as well. The couple decides to form Samosa Singh in 2015, a Samosa snack brand that offers different regional varieties of the said snack to its customers.
By using fresh and hygienic ingredients while making the food item, it has able to grasp the attention of the mass. They sold their apartment for a big kitchen so that they can cater to the orders of the corporate world. The sacrifice was definitely worth it as now the valuation of the company is $7.26 Million.
Rohan Bhargava & Swati Bhargava – CashKaro
Top Couple Entrepreneurs in India – Rohan Bhargava and Swati Bhargava
Friends turned life partners; Swati and Rohan founded CashKaro in the year 2013 and since then have never looked back. It is a platform that deals with coupons and cashback. The platform provides its customers with coupons that help them get discounts and cashback while shopping online.
People while shopping from popular E-commerce sites like Myntra, Flipkart, Amazon can use these coupons. The valuation of CashKaro is $2.2 Billion.
Top Couple Entrepreneurs in India – Anand Shahani and Mehak Sagar
WedMeGood is a platform that helps you organise your wedding, from finding photographers to setting up the perfect wedding venue and getting the best makeup artist for your big day, this platform does everything. Founded by the couple Anand Shahani and Mehak Sagar in 2014, the headquarters of the company is situated in Haryana, India.
Bipin Preet Singh & Upasana Taku – MobiKwik
Top Couple Entrepreneurs in India – Bipin Preet Singh and Upasana Taku
This payment service provider online platform was founded in the year 2009 by the married couple Bipin Preet Singh and Upasana Taku. The platform helps in booking tickets, recharging, paying bills for electricity and other services. Its vision was to transform the landscape of digital payments in India and it has been successfully doing that for a long time. Currently, the valuation of MobiKwik is $700 to $750 Million.
Arjun Shetty & Rati Shetty – BankBazaar
Top Couple Entrepreneurs in India – Arjun Shetty and Rati Shetty
BankBazaar was founded by the childhood sweethearts and married couple Arjun Shetty and Rati Shetty in 2008. This fintech company helps people compare offers related to debit cards, credit cards loans, mutual funds, and others with different banking and non-banking financial companies. The current value of BankBazaar is $280 Million.
Bhavna Anand Sharma & Siddhesh Sharma – Cureveda
Top Couple Entrepreneurs in India – Siddesh Sharma and Bhavna Anand Sharma
This company is mainly focused on solving some common illnesses like diabetes, thyroid, and heart-related problems. In 2014, the married couple Bhavna Anand Sharma and Siddhesh Sharma joined hands and started Cureveda which creates herbal supplements to solve common health-related problems. Various ranges of dietary and herbal supplements are produced for customers that are 100% Vegetarian.
Kuonal Lakhapati & Aayushi Lakhapati – Upnourish
Top Couple Entrepreneurs in India – Kuonal Lakhapati & Aayushi Lakhapati
Upnourish is a meal replacement product venture. It is mumbai based Health & Wellness startups that enables people to eat healthy yet low on calories meal in their busy life schedules. Upnourish aims to make health and nutritional food easily available and convenient to all aspirational people with busy lifestyle so that they do not have to compromise on their health goals.
Naina Ruhail & Prateek Ruhail – Vanity Wagon
Top Couple Entrepreneurs in India – Naina Ruhail & Prateek Ruhail
Vanity Wagon (‘VW’) is India’s first and largest clean beauty marketplace. One of the finest information-oriented beauty marketplaces, that pledges to bring only toxin-free and natural beauty products to its consumers. VW offers a trust-worthy platform where one of the most requested elements between a business and a customer, i.e, transparency would be paramount of our relationship. Be it beauty or personal care, it swears by to bring the safest solutions to your doorstep without any hassle. VW stands by the rule of never having to compromise in any manner to find the right products for our customers. It believes in sustainable beauty and stands firm in its mission to educate the audience and deliver what’s best for them. It is curating the best of clean beauty without compromising on efficiency and ensuring that the products are cruelty-free. Prior to onboarding any brand, it always check whether the brand is certified- cruelty-free by PETA and safe-to-use by ECOCERT or other recognized institutions.
Aarti Gill & Mihir Gadani – OZiva
Top Couple Entrepreneurs in India – Aarti Gill & Mihir Gadani
A spouse can be a life partner and a business partner at the same time. Valentine’s Day is all about signifying appreciation and love for one’s significant other. Like building and maintaining a relationship, business partnerships also hinge on chemistry between co-founders, trust, and effective communication. When life partners start a business together, there is a good compatibility which in turn helps the business grow because life partners understand each other the most out of anyone in this world.
The Indian startup ecosystem is buzzing with new startups every day, growing on the back of rising undertakings of capital interest. With the progress in the number of startups, love has found its way, in the form of a couple’s journey to build a successful business together. Their shared familiarity and values along with both their working styles can become powerful tools in fueling the passion for business.
These husband-wife entrepreneur duos have come together and made the most of their shared effective communication and trust in running a business successfully. Take a look at emerging Indian and popular brands started by couplepreneurs.
India’s first certified clean-label active plant based nutrition and wellness brand, OZiva was launched in 2016 by Aarti Gill and Mihir Gadani as co-founders. The brand is India’s first certified Clean Label Brand that offers an inspirational range of holistic plant-based nutrition, beauty and health products along with a fully digitized ecosystem intended to enable millions of Indians people towards living a healthier and better life. OZiva offers an inspirational range of holistic plant-based nutrition, beauty and health products. The brand recently launched the OZiva Clean Beauty Range and Kids Nutrition Range as well. Aarti’s technical and marketing wizardry alongside her youthful disposition and passion towards health & fitness along with Mihir true believer of combining the different aspects of Yoga, Ayurveda & Functional Fitness for optimal health, has been the driving force behind the rise of OZiva.
Sandeep Singh & Nikki Singh Arora – Blue Tribe
Top Couple Entrepreneurs in India – Nikki Singh Arora & Sandeep Singh
According to husband-wife duo Sandeep Singh and Nikki Singh Arora – the founders of Blue Tribe, the will to raise their daughter in a greener environment inspired them to build Blue Tribe as a one-of-a-kind food-tech company, which brings out plant based alternate meats like Chicken Keema, Chicken Nuggets, Mutton Keema, Chicken Momos, Chicken Sausage, etc. Through BlueTribe, they strive to arouse a lifestyle change in non-vegetarian food lovers so that everyone can take a conscious step towards healing the green planet. Their vision is to offer the perfect alternative of meat-based food items made entirely from plant-based ingredients. The best part is, these modernistic plant-based meat products are similar in taste, texture and quality and thus offer a genuine chance for meat lovers to choose a relatively more sustainable and eco-friendly substitute without compromising anything.
Nidhi Yadav & Satpal Yadav – AKS Clothing
Top Couple Entrepreneurs in India – Nidhi Yadav & Satpal Yadav
A Yuvdhi Apparels Private Limited brand, AKS Clothing, was started in 2014 by a hitched couple, Nidhi Yadav and Satpal Yadav. AKS clothing is renowned for its great taste in design and long-lasting material quality and has been the pinnacle of beautiful, graceful, and stylish women’s attire. The AKS clothing line comprises the best and most fashionable fabrics available.
Conclusion
When your significant other becomes your business partner, starting with your dreams become much more interesting because they are familiar with their working styles and characteristics.
Finding a perfect business partner can be quite a tough job but if it is your life partner, the difficult path may not become easier but you will definitely get the courage to face the upcoming challenges. The above couple entrepreneurs proved that the couple that hustles together, reach the peak of success together.
FAQs
Can a couple start a business?
If a couple starts a business, it might turn out to be a dream job, as they already have the required bond and mutual respect that is needed between business partners.
Who are some of the top successful couple entrepreneurs?
Varun Alagh & Ghazal Alagh, Shubra Chadda & Vivek Prabhakar, Shikhar Singh & Nidhi Singh, and Bipin Preet Singh & Upasana Taku are some of the successful entrepreneurs.
Who is Aarti Gill husband?
Mihir Gadani is the husband of Aarti Gill. They have founded OZiva company.
What can be the best business for husband and wife to start?
A husband and wife can start a business that matches their skills and interests. Some great options include a café or bakery if they love cooking, an online store for fashion or handmade products, a consulting business in their expertise, or a content creation venture like blogging or YouTube. They can also explore franchise businesses, event planning, or a fitness studio. The key is to choose something they enjoy and can manage together efficiently.
This article has been contributed by Manish Panwar, Business Head at Xumane.
“ESOPs are about more than just shares—they’re about building something meaningful together. When employees become part-owners, they don’t just work for the company; they work with it, driving its success as if it were their own.”
– Manish Panwar
In recent years, Employee Stock Option Plans (ESOPs) have emerged as one of the most innovative ways for startups to attract and retain top talent. As these plans continue to grow in popularity, they have proven to be an effective strategy for both companies and employees. The wealth that individuals have accumulated through their ESOPs is nothing short of inspiring, with some even turning into overnight millionaires when their companies hit the jackpot.
So, why are ESOPs so appealing, and why are they here to stay?
The Startup Dilemma: Talent vs. Cash Flow
As a startup founder, the struggle to attract skilled employees often comes down to one thing: money. The lack of cash flow can make it impossible to offer competitive salaries, but do you need skilled employees? Absolutely. Can you afford to pay them what they deserve? Probably not—at least not yet.
This is where ESOPs come into play.
At their core, ESOPs are modern-day compensation tools that allow employees to become partial owners of the company by granting them stock options. These options give employees the right to buy shares of the company at a predetermined price, usually well below market value, with the hope that the company’s value will grow significantly over time.
Source: Siason Capital
How ESOPs Work: A Quick Breakdown
Granting of Options: Startups grant stock options to employees, specifying the number of shares they can purchase in the future at a predetermined price.
Vesting Period: These options come with a vesting period—usually 3 to 4 years—during which employees must stay with the company before they earn the right to exercise their options. This ensures employees are committed for the long term.
Exercise Period: Once the vesting period is over, employees can “exercise” their options, purchasing the shares at the agreed-upon price. This exercise period often comes with a defined window of time.
Liquidity Event: The true benefit of ESOPs is realized during a liquidity event, such as an IPO or acquisition. When these events occur, employees can sell their shares and cash in on the appreciation.
The Power of Belief: Why ESOPs Work
So, how is the value of shares decided? And how can employees ensure that they will see returns from their ESOPs?
The answer lies in belief.
Employees who accept ESOPs are, in essence, betting on the future success of the company. They believe that the company will grow and become profitable, and as it does, they will enjoy the financial rewards that come with ownership. This belief is what drives employee engagement, productivity, and loyalty. When you own part of the company, you have skin in the game. Your success is tied to the company’s success. It’s no longer just about working for a paycheck—it’s about working to build something bigger than yourself.
The Allure of ESOPs
Consider headlines like, “500 Employees to Turn ‘Crorepatis’ With ₹9,000 Crore ESOP Plan.” That’s the power of ESOPs.
It’s often said that extraordinary wealth is only achievable through owning a business. Many people believe that simply being an employee won’t get them there. But ESOPs bridge that gap. By offering employees the chance to own a stake in the company, startups offer their employees the opportunity to build wealth just like founders do.
Startups can implement ESOPs by following the legal framework outlined under Section 62(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2013 for private companies, or SEBI regulations for listed companies.
To implement an ESOP plan, founders and HR teams must:
Define eligibility criteria
Set exercise prices
Create vesting schedules
Ensure compliance with applicable laws
The Tax Implications: A Key Consideration
Taxation of ESOPs can be tricky for both startups and employees. Let’s break it down:
a) For Employees
Exercise of Options: When employees exercise their options, the difference between the fair market value of the shares and the exercise price is taxed as perquisite income.
Sale of Shares:
If shares are sold within one year of acquisition, the profit is taxed as Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG) at 15%.
If shares are held for longer than one year, they are taxed at Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG), which is currently 12.5% on gains over ₹1.25 lakh.
b) For Startups
No tax deduction on ESOP grant: Companies cannot claim a tax deduction when they grant ESOPs.
Tax deduction on ESOP expense: Companies can, however, claim a tax deduction for the fair market value of the shares allotted to employees as an expense, provided they meet the conditions set by the law.
c) Legal Documents Required for ESOPs
For startups to set up ESOPs, the following documents are essential:
Stock Option Agreement: Outlines the terms of the options granted to employees, including exercise price and vesting schedule.
Vesting Schedule: A detailed timeline specifying when employees can exercise their options.
ESOP Plan Rules: A comprehensive guide defining eligibility, pricing, and operational aspects of the ESOP plan.
Board Resolutions: Formal approval by the board of directors to grant stock options.
Employee Communication: Clear documents explaining the ESOP plan and its benefits to employees.
What Happens When the Company Goes Public?
If the company goes public, ESOPs are converted into publicly traded shares, giving employees the option to sell these shares on the stock market. However, for this to happen, the employee must have already vested their options and exercised them.
Conclusion: A Tool for Growth, Loyalty, and Wealth
To sum it all up, ESOPs are not just a tool for attracting top talent—they’re a vehicle for wealth creation, fostering long-term employee commitment, and aligning the workforce with the company’s vision for growth. When employees have a stake in the company, their investment in its success is far greater than any cash bonus or salary increase could achieve. ESOPs offer a unique opportunity to build something meaningful, together.
India is currently experiencing a startup boom, with entrepreneurs popping up all over the country, from urban centres to rural areas. The term “startup” has become a household name in recent years, and it’s no surprise why. The Indian audience was recently treated to a showcase of innovative ideas on the hit TV show “Shark Tank India.”
This show quickly rose to popularity and became a favourite among Indian viewers due to its compelling cast of entrepreneurs, cutting-edge ideas, and an impressive panel of judges. The show is a testament to the wealth of entrepreneurial talent in India. While some startups were fortunate enough to receive funding from the “sharks,” the show also highlighted the fact that success is possible even without a deal.
The startup scene in India is alive and well, with a steady stream of creative and determined entrepreneurs emerging every day. Whether they secure funding from the sharks or chart their own path, these startups are helping to shape the future of India and beyond.
What is Shark Tank?
Shark Tank is an American business reality TV series aired on ABC in 2009. The show features two groups: entrepreneurs and investors, also known as “sharks.” On the show, selected entrepreneurs pitch their businesses to the sharks to secure investments. If their ideas impress the sharks, the entrepreneurs may land a deal.
Inspired by the American version, India launched its version of Shark Tank called “Shark Tank India.” The first season premiered on December 20th, 2021, on Sony Entertainment Television. In its first season, seven sharks made appearances and secured various deals. The current season has 12 sharks.
The first season of Shark Tank India was a triumph for both the sharks and the entrepreneurs. The show received 62,000 entries from aspiring business owners, from which 198 were selected to pitch their ideas to the sharks. 67 of these pitches resulted in successful deals.
Although not all startups were able to secure a deal on the show, many went on to achieve great success. Here are some of the most successful startups that were rejected on Shark Tank India:
Moonshine is Asia and India’s first meadery, founded in 2016 by Rohan Rehani and Nitin Vishwas. Mead, the oldest alcoholic beverage, is created by fermenting honey with fruits and spices and contains no artificial flavours or colours. The founders appeared on Shark Tank India with a valuation of INR 160 crores and requested INR 80 lakhs in exchange for 0.5% equity in the company. Although all the sharks expressed interest, the founders did not find the counteroffer appealing, and the deal was rejected.
Urban Monkey is a Mumbai-based streetwear fashion brand founded by Yash Gangwal in 2013. Aimed at young people in India, the brand appeared on Shark Tank India with a valuation of INR 100 crores.
Its product line includes caps, sunglasses, belts, backpacks, clothing and more, which have been popular with celebrities such as Rannvijay Singha and Raftaar. Yash sought an INR 1 crore investment in exchange for 1% equity, but despite the brand’s success, the sharks rejected the deal.
Morriko Foods
Company Name
Morikko Foods
Founded
2017
Valuation
INR 33.33 Crores
Morriko Foods – Shark Tank India Rejected Startups
Morriko Pure Foods, formerly Kamdhenu Foods, is a Gujarat-based startup specializing in solar-dehydrated fruit and vegetable powders. Established in 2002 by Bipin Shah and rebranded as Morriko in 2017 with the addition of co-founders Tanmay Shah and Kalyani Shah, the startup aims to promote healthy snacking. It offers a variety of products, including mango chunks, guava chunks, drumstick powder, herbal teas, and more. On Shark Tank India, Morriko appeared with a valuation of INR 33.33 crores and sought an INR 1 crore investment in exchange for 3% equity. Despite counteroffers, the founders declined.
ExperientialEtc – Shark Tank India Rejected Startups
ExperientialEtc, another successful startup, is a top-notch experiential marketing agency that creates exceptional experiences. Founded in 2017 by Karan Bhardwaj and Prashant Pandey and based in Mumbai, the startup has a net worth of INR 50 crores.
ExperientialEtc leverages 3D holographic displays, projection mappings, life-size kinetic structures, and magical LEDs to enhance communication. The company also utilizes machine language and interactive videos for digital requirements.
The founders asked for 2 crores INR in exchange for 4% equity in the company. Although the sharks were impressed with the idea, they still rejected the deal.
Agri Tourism
Company Name
Agri Tourism
Founded
2003
Valuation
INR 400 Crores
Agri Tourism – Shark Tank India Rejected Startups
Agri Tourism is a unique startup that offers an immersive tourism experience in agriculture. Founded by Pandurang Taware in 2003 and based in Maharashtra, this startup boasts a net worth of INR 40 crores. It connects tourists directly with farmers, creating a mutually beneficial experience.
The startup provides top-notch food and amenities for tourists during their stays in rural villages. With agriculture tourism gaining popularity in India, Agri Tourism is poised for success. Pandurang asked for INR 50 lakhs in exchange for 5% equity. Despite the potential of the business, the sharks declined to invest.
Torch-It is a startup that creates disability assistive devices to foster an inclusive and sustainable ecosystem. In 2016, Hunny Bhagchandani and Mohit Chelani founded the company, which has a valuation of 75 crores INR. The startup’s devices use ultrasonic sensors to show the proximity of objects, assisting visually impaired individuals in their navigation. The founders asked for 75 lakhs INR in exchange for 1% equity, but despite investors’ inspiration for the idea, the deal was rejected.
Shades of Spring
Company Name
Shades of Spring
Founded
2018
Valuation
INR 300 Crores
Shades of Spring – Shark Tank India Rejected Startups
Shades of Spring is a Bengaluru-based brand specializing in flower gifting, founded in 2018 by Nidhi Gupta and Anju Bhagat. The brand offers farm-fresh flowers for special occasions and through subscription models featuring over 500 varieties produced by Indian farmers. Their offerings include weekly and monthly flower subscriptions, luxury bouquets, hand-tied bouquets, and more.
The founders asked for 3 crores INR in exchange for 1% equity in the company, valuing the brand at 300 crores INR. Despite its success before appearing on the show, the sharks rejected the deal.
Green Protein
Company Name
Green Protein
Founded
2020
Valuation
INR 30 Crores
Green Protein – Shark Tank India Rejected Startups
Green Protein is a plant-based protein beverage startup founded in 2020 by Madhvi Datwani, Parag Khimani, and Parigna Thorat. The startup, based in India, has a valuation of 30 crores INR and offers plant-based, vegan, cruelty-free, and delicious beverages.
Green Protein offers six fruit flavours and three smoothie flavours with no added sugar that are easy to mix with water without the need for special blenders. The founders asked for 60 lakhs INR for 2% equity, but the deal was rejected despite counter offers from the sharks.
PDD Falcon, a startup based in Mumbai that deals in environmentally friendly stainless steel products, was founded in 2020 by Sneha Visaria and Chirag Visaria. With a valuation of INR 25 crores, the startup offers over 300 made-in-India stainless-steel products, including tiffin boxes, air-tight containers, bottles, straws, and more. The founders asked for 75 lakhs INR for 3% equity, but despite having a good business and great products, the deal was rejected.
Kunafa World
Company Name
Kunafa World
Founded
2019
Valuation
INR 18 Crores
Kunafa World – Shark Tank India Rejected Startups
Kunafa World, a startup in the traditional Middle Eastern dessert Kunafa, was founded in 2019 by Jameela Ruhi and Zamzeer Ahmad. Based in Bengaluru, the startup has a valuation of INR 18 crores.
With a delicious combination of semolina dough, sugar-based syrup, and cheese and cream filling, Kunafa World offers more than 15 different varieties of desserts in India. The founders sought 90 lakhs INR for 5% equity, but the sharks declined the deal despite the dessert’s appeal.
Theka Coffee
Company Name
Theka Coffee
Founded
2017
Valuation
INR 5 Crores
Theka Coffee – Shark Tank India Rejected Startups
Theka Coffee stands out from most coffee shops by using cold brew rather than espresso in their drinks. To create their unique beverages, they steep finely ground coffee in cool water for around 16 to 36 hours, producing a tastier, less bitter, and more caffeinated brew. On a TV show, Bhupinder Madan, the creator of Theka, requested a 10% equity stake in exchange for a Rs. 50 lakh investment. However, this exposure did not hinder Theka’s progress. In fact, Zenith Multi Trade in Dubai provided Rs. 2.5 crore in funding for the brand.
Additionally, industry giants such as Microsoft and Reliance Retail have approached Bhupinder with lucrative proposals to promote and sell Theka Coffee products in their establishments.
Zypp
Company Name
Zypp
Founded
2017
Valuation
INR 220 Crores
Zypp – Shark Tank India Rejected Startups
The startup, based in Gurugram, aims to electrify last-mile deliveries in South Asia by providing units of electric two-wheelers to ride-sharing businesses, e-commerce, food, grocery, and medicine distributors. On a TV show, the founders asked for Rs. 2.2 crore for 1% equity, but they didn’t get any investors. However, the company has received funding at major stages and has grown substantially in the past year.
Recently, Northern Arc provided the firm with $10 million in loan financing to help it expand its EV fleet services. The company plans to use debt as a new expansion funnel and deploy 1.5 lakh electric scooters in India by 2025. It is also focusing on expanding its portfolio to increase the production of its scooters to meet the surge in demand.
Recode Studios
Company Name
Recode Studios
Founded
2018
Valuation
INR 100 Crores
Recode Studios – Shark Tank India Rejected Startups
Recode Studios, a makeup brand and online marketplace based in Ludhiana, has successfully established a strong presence across India with a network of over 250 physical stores and a thriving online platform accessible through its website and mobile app. In a strategic move made in 2021, the brand diversified its product offerings by incorporating items from other brands into its platform.
Despite achieving a notable net sales figure of ₹15 crore and a net profit of ₹48 lakh for the fiscal year 2022, founders Dheeraj Bansal and Rahul Sachdeva faced rejection on Shark Tank India. The startup, recognized for hosting exclusive offline makeup classes in luxurious five-star properties priced at ₹1,500 per class, did not secure funding for the show. The purported reason for this setback was the perceived direct competition with Sugar Cosmetics, a brand founded by one of the Sharks, Vineeta Singh.
Atmosphere
Company Name
Atmosphere
Founded
2018
Valuation
INR 25 Crores
Atmosphere – Shark Tank India Rejected Startups
Led by sisters Ariella Blank and Rebekah Sood, Atmosphere emerged as a standout startup that faced rejection on Shark Tank India but gained prominence with its inventive venture centred on crafting premium-quality Kombucha. Recognized as one of India’s leading brands in this specialized market, Atmosphere employs a meticulous fermentation process incorporating green tea, yeast, and bacteria to produce a varied range of flavours, such as the koala, mango peach, exotic lime, and lychee love. Despite delivering an impressive pitch, Anupam Mittal turned down the counteroffer, citing a range of operational and price-related concerns.
Flatheads
Company Name
Flatheads
Founded
2018
Valuation
INR 25 Crores
Flatheads – Shark Tank India Rejected Startups
Presenting his Bengaluru-based startup, Flatheads, Ganesh Balakrishnan, a co-founder, showcased the company’s expertise in crafting sustainable and environmentally friendly casual sneakers tailored for urban dwellers. In his pitch, Balakrishnan sought a 3% equity stake with a valuation of 25 crores, requesting an investment of 75 lakhs. During the pitch, the sharks noted that the startup grappled with challenges, particularly in the crucial domains of the essential marketing 4Ps—product, price, place, and promotion. Founded in 2018 by Ganesh Balakrishnan and Utkarsh Biradar, Flatheads integrates innovative materials such as bamboo or banana yarn to ensure both comfort and cooling in their footwear.
Organic Smokes
Company Name
Organic Smokes
Founded
2015
Valuation
INR 100 Crores
Organic Smokes – Shark Tank India Rejected Startups
Organic Smokes is a smoking company that was founded by the Chhabra brothers: Nitin, Piyush, and Gaurav. Their mission is to provide a healthy, organic alternative to traditional tobacco smoking. They use an ancient Ayurvedic technique to craft herbal cigarettes using exotic ingredients such as Tulsi, Green Tea, Rose Petals, and Spearmint. They have replaced nicotine with caffeine to strategically manage the Placebo Effect. Their products are Ministry of Ayush-approved and patented, providing a guilt-free substitute for smokers while also delivering rejuvenating tastes and various health benefits. Despite their unique offerings and commitment to harm reduction, Organic Smokes faced difficulties in securing a deal on Shark Tank India.
Magic of Memories – Shark Tank India Rejected Startups
Magic of Memories, an innovative startup founded by Priti Magoo, specializes in creating jewellery infused with the DNA of individuals, including elements like umbilical cords, breast milk, and even human blood. Priti, a former optometrist, brought this unique concept to the Indian market in 2019, drawing inspiration from a trend popular in Germany and Australia.
Despite establishing a robust online presence through its website and Facebook, the Shark Tank India pitch failed to attract any offers from the investors. Priti was seeking 25 lakhs for a 5% equity stake, but the lack of interest from the sharks resulted in no deal being struck. This is noteworthy, considering the company’s strong financial performance, with sales reaching 27 lakhs in the current year.
Coezy Sleep
Company Name
Coezy Sleep
Founded
2021
Valuation
INR 1.75 Crores
Coezy Sleep – Shark Tank India Rejected Startups
Coezy Sleep, a standout contender on Shark Tank India Season 2, introduces an innovative sleep solution through stretchable apparel designed to improve sleep quality, employing a cocoon-like approach reminiscent of swaddling a newborn. Established by Hardik Rathore, the startup’s relaxers utilize a unique 360-degree compression technique, offering users a soothing and restful sleep experience. Despite its groundbreaking concept, all panellists on the show opted not to invest in Coezy Sleep, expressing reservations about its safety and suitability for the current conditions in India.
Digital Paani
Company Name
Digital Paani
Founded
2020
Valuation
–
Digital Paani – Shark Tank India Rejected Startups
Digital Paani is a startup focused on providing digital solutions for water management. It aims to improve water usage efficiency and monitoring by using technology to help businesses and households better manage their water resources. The company seeks to address the growing challenges of water conservation and efficient usage through innovative, tech-driven solutions.
Digital Paani aimed to transform water management with digital solutions for efficient usage and monitoring. While their pitch emphasized the growing need for technology in environmental conservation, the sharks chose not to invest.
Smart Mop by Caspian
Company Name
Smart Mop by Caspian
Founded
2021
Valuation
–
Smart Mop by Caspian – Shark Tank India Rejected Startups
Smart Mop by Caspian presented an innovative cleaning solution aimed at making household chores more efficient. The mop featured advanced functions like automated cleaning and smart sensors. However, the sharks felt that the market for smart home cleaning devices was too small, leading them to pass on the investment. The brand’s appearance on Shark Tank India highlighted the show’s focus on diverse household innovations.
Road Pilot
Company Name
Road Pilot
Founded
2021
Valuation
–
Road Pilot – Shark Tank India Rejected Startups
Road Pilot introduced a tech-based solution to improve road safety by offering real-time data and alerts for drivers. The startup aimed to reduce accidents and enhance the driving experience. Despite its noble mission, the sharks felt the business lacked scalability and decided not to invest. Road Pilot’s pitch highlighted the role of technology in safety and added to the diverse range of innovations showcased on Shark Tank India.
Conclusion
The debut of Shark Tank in India was a huge success, with many entrepreneurs securing impressive investment deals from the sharks.
However, some startups failed to secure an investment, either because they were unable to impress the sharks or because they could not reach a mutually agreeable deal. Despite this, startups like Moonshine, Shades of Spring, and others have continued to thrive and be successful in their respective fields even after being rejected for investment.
FAQs
Which are the top startups rejected in Shark Tank India?
Some of the successful startups rejected in Shark Tank India are:
Moonshine
Morriko Foods
ExperientialEtc
Agri Tourism
Torch-it
Shades of Spring
Green Protein
PDD Falcon
Kunafa World
Urban Monkey
Which is the biggest deal in Shark Tank India?
Some of the biggest deals in Shark Tank India are:
AAS Vidyalaya – INR 1.5 Crore
Annie by Tinkerbell Labs – INR 1.05 Crores
Skippi Icepops – INR 1 Crore
Sunfox Technologies – INR 1 Crore
Get-A-Whey – INR 1 Crore
The Yarn Bazaar – INR 1 Crore
Hammer Lifestyle – INR 1 Crore
IN A CAN – INR 1 Crore
Which are the most successful Shark Tank India products that didn’t get a deal?
The most successful Shark Tank India products that didn’t get a deal are:
Moonshine
Qzense Labs
Auric
Binks Pets
Arata Academy
Which are Shark Tank India companies that failed?
Some of the Shark Tank India companies that failed are:
ToyGaroo
The Grub Club
Keto India
Committed and Ghosted
Which are the successful companies rejected by Shark Tank India?
Some of the successful companies rejected by Shark Tank India are The Lip Bar, Kodiak Cakes, Xero Shoes, Rocketbook, Agritourism, and more.
This article has been contributed by Mr. Amit Bansal, CEO, Solv.
For the last decade, India has shown proven to have great potential as the global startup hub with emerging entrepreneurs across the country. Though the metropolitan cities of Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore remain to be the startup hubs, the Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities have huge scope as untapped markets. One of the most frequent but very important questions entrepreneurs in today’s highly competitive startup scene ask themselves is: how does their business scale beyond Tier-1 cities which are just so saturated? While the Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities are rapidly growing momentum for new business opportunities, India’s Tier-1 metropolises have traditionally been the center of consumer demand and technological innovation. In India over 60% of the population is from Tier-2 & Tier-3 cities, which shows the immense untapped potential they have. Reaching out to such markets can redefine businesses looking to scale. MSMEs have emerged as the backbone of the economy by generating jobs, innovative ideas, and inclusive growth-all of which form the crucial aspects driving overall productivity.
The Changing Landscape of Tier-2 and Tier-3 Markets
Better internet access, increased disposable incomes, government initiatives, and the ambitions of a growing middle class are driving migration to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. According to estimates by RedSeer Consulting, India’s Tier-2 and Tier-3 towns would constitute as much as 60% of all new online customer acquisition by 2025. Consumers in small towns, rather than being mere passive media consumers, have taken an active role in the digital economy of India. Furthermore, a report issued by NASSCOM in 2023 has disclosed that the consumption behavior of these smaller cities is changing at rapidly. The year-on-year growth of digital services and products, starting from online commerce to fintech, was witnessed at 45% in Tier-2 cities and 30% growth in Tier-3 towns. Such places are undergoing fast-paced changes for new-age banking, shopping, or how one relates with brands; hence, this is an area where startups can thrive immensely.
Why Startups Should Target Tier-2 and Tier-3 Markets
Lower Competition, More Opportunities
The Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities provide less competition compared to the metropolitan markets. For the metro cities there’s a constant challenge to grow the customer market share, with established peers dominating much of the sector in terms of customer footfall. In contrast, smaller cities present relatively untapped potential.
Lower Costs of Customer Acquisition
Lower customer acquisition costs (CAC) can be one of the answers for startups in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. A study by BCG shows that acquiring customers in smaller cities is 40-50% cheaper in Tier-1 cities. This is mainly because of lower media and advertising expenditure along with more flexible pricing and less competition.
Increasing Disposable Income and Aspirations
A report by McKinsey states that disposable incomes of people staying in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities have been rising at a faster rate than in metros, as more jobs and industries are shifting to smaller towns. These towns, in which middle class is on an upsurge, also witness a spending spurt in aspirational products and services of any form-be it e-commerce, fintech, or edtech.
Government Push Towards Inclusive Development
Initiatives such as “Digital India” and “Smart Cities Mission” have spurred growth in these regions. According to the report by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, the push in digital infrastructure has increased internet access and enabled easy entry for more digital startups. Additionally, the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) has experienced higher home ownership in the regions and is enhancing the consumption patterns of goods and services.
Startups should strategically position their business in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities because the needs, behavior, and expectations of consumers have a stark difference than the metro populations. Therefore, the only way to deal with this variance is a tailored approach.
1. Localization of products and Services
Hyper localization should be the focus for the startups to reach the unique preferences and needs of Tier-2 and Tier-3 consumers. For instance, affordable e-commerce platforms have totally changed the way people shop in small towns by catering to customers looking at price-consciousness by offering low-cost products with affordable payment options. Supporting regional languages, adjusting the pricing strategy, and offering localized products or services makes market penetration and customer engagement much better.
2. Building Trust through Offline Channels
In smaller cities, consumers usually depend on word-of-mouth suggestions and personal rapport. Having omnichannel strategy-a strategy that includes both online and offline touchpoints-helps startups gain credibility. Building strong relationships with local vendors is highly effective for gaining widespread adoption in the regions. Operating small customer support centers, collaborating with influencers, and organizing community events further help build relationships and earn the trust of consumers.
3. Partner with Local Entrepreneurs
Most firms that succeed, tap into these markets via joint ventures with local entrepreneurs who are keenly aware of the going-on dynamics in their respective regions. Local partners can play vital roles in distribution, marketing, and after-sales services, all of which are important for establishing presence in these regions.
4. Regional Orientation of Marketing Campaigns
Policies that work in metro cities may not work as effectively in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. Localised marketing efforts with regional language, local content has to be the focus for start-ups. Regional language-specific platforms are avenues where start-ups can uniquely engage and connect with consumers in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
5. Affordability and Accessibility
Affordability has to be a criterion for start-ups entering these markets. Consumers in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities are extremely price-sensitive, and premium pricing strategies that generate great value in metro are unlikely to excel in these regions. Mass adoption will be driven by EMIs, BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later), and lower-ticket offerings. The leading e-commerce companies, with their affordable prices, localized products, and flexible modes of payment, including cash on delivery and installment plans, has allowed them to capture significant market share in these regions.
As India continues to evolve in various sectors and as an economy, the real growth potential lies beyond the metros. Tier 2 and Tier 3 geographies have great opportunities that can be tapped by startups through embracing hyper-localization, fostering trust through offline connections, leveraging local partnerships, and focusing on affordability. The key is to develop strategies that are tailored to meet the needs of these consumers. Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities have evolved as the new frontier of growth, waiting to be adapted and invested in for startups who are willing to evolve and be at par with the metro cities.
Startups and MSMEs from both India and Australia are being invited to apply for the Climate Smart Agritech cohort of the India Australia Rapid Innovation and Startup Expansion (RISE) Accelerator. This programme is designed to assist businesses that are looking to expand internationally and is a joint effort between the Atal Innovation Mission and the CSIRO in Australia. The development of new solutions to the most critical agricultural problems faced by both India and Australia has reached a major turning point.
The RISE Accelerator’s Climate Smart Agritech cohort will begin its mission in October 2024 with a focus on entrepreneurs and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) that leverage technology to improve agricultural output and resilience in the context of increasing climatic volatility, resource constraint, and food insecurity.
Startups and MSMEs that provide solutions that put farmers’ needs, goals, and on-farm practices first are of particular interest to the programme.
What is RISE Accelerator?
Since its inception in 2023, the RISE Accelerator programme has played a pivotal role in assisting startups and MSMEs with the validation, adaptation, and piloting of their products for potential new markets. Climate Smart Agritech is a new cohort that aims to support agritech startups and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) developing solutions to increase agricultural production and resilience in the context of increasing environmental concerns.
“While our farming operations are distinct in size and diversity, India and Australia share common agricultural challenges,” stated Tamara Ogilvie, Programme Director of the CSIRO. Participants in this batch will be able to find their product-market fit in a variety of areas and scale their solutions quickly to meet demand on a global scale.
Participating startups and MSMEs will have access to a variety of resources throughout the nine-month accelerator programme, including online resources, in-person workshops, and even immersion weeks in India and Australia. During these sessions, they will get the opportunity to gain valuable market insights, receive personalised coaching, and receive mentorship from professionals in the field. In order to increase the likelihood of success in new markets, the programme is created to help participants interact with prospective partners and clients.
Field Trials and Technology Pilot
“The RISE Accelerator program not only tackles the pressing issues in the agriculture sector but also guarantees that farmers can access and implement resilient practices that are customised to their unique requirements,” according to Pramit Dash, Programme Lead at AIM (Atal Innovation Mission). This is achieved through encouraging innovation and offering a platform for start-ups to scale their solutions.
Increased productivity, decreased emissions, and optimal use of natural resources are just a few of the pressing issues facing the agricultural sector that the most recent cycle of the program is attempting to address.
September 15, 2024 is the deadline for RISE Accelerator applications.
Participation in the programme is free of charge for startups and SMEs, and it offers several chances for travel between India and Australia. Additionally, non-equity grants of up to INR 45 lakhs may be available to certain startups and SMEs.
Most investors in India’s startup scene are optimistic about the future as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s National Democratic Alliance (NDA) forms the government for the third time in a row.
According to a survey by a well-known media house, nearly half of the venture capitalists and angel investors surveyed think that the outcome of the Lok Sabha 2024 elections will boost investor confidence in India’s startup scene.
Some 18% of participants are taking a wait-and-see approach to their investments after the elections, while 32% think the elections will have no effect on market sentiment. Only 4% of investors expressed the opinion that sector-specific measures will be implemented as a result of the elections.
Reactions From Investors
Sharing his views on the development, Karna D Shinde, Strategic Investor and Advisor stated, “The Modi government’s visionary approach towards nurturing India’s startup ecosystem has sparked a new era of innovation and opportunity. Through initiatives like Startup India and Digital India, the administration has simplified regulatory frameworks, enhanced funding avenues, and fostered an environment where creativity and entrepreneurship can thrive. By establishing incubation centres, promoting skill development, and easing tax burdens, the government has made significant strides in transforming India into a global startup hub.”
“The focus on digital connectivity and international collaborations further underscores the commitment to integrating India’s startup landscape with global standards. Such holistic and structured support from the government has instilled confidence among investors, catalyzing the growth of innovative enterprises across the nation. The convergence of policy support, infrastructure development, and a renewed entrepreneurial spirit is creating an ecosystem where startups are not only surviving but thriving. This optimism is not just about the present government’s initiatives, but about the long-term vision of positioning India at the forefront of global innovation. With these foundational efforts, the future of India’s startup ecosystem looks promising, driving economic growth, and creating millions of jobs, thereby contributing to a resilient and self-reliant economy,” he added further.
Marking some of the initiatives of the present government, Mahankali Srinivas Rao (MSR), CEO, T-Hub said, “The abolition of the Angel Tax for all classes of investors is a pivotal move that will create a more supportive environment for angel investments, ultimately benefiting startups and paving the way for India to become a global innovation hub. The establishment of an INR 1,000 crore venture capital fund dedicated to boosting the space sector is another forward-thinking initiative. Moreover, the introduction of the Anusandhan National Research Fund and a financing pool of INR 1 lakh crore to spur private sector-driven research and innovation is a game-changer. At T-Hub, we are excited about these developments and the positive impact they will have on our vibrant startup ecosystem. These initiatives will provide startups with the necessary resources and support to thrive, innovate, and contribute significantly to India’s economic growth and technological advancement.”
Reactions From Startup Sector
Amit Bansal, Founder, BharatLoan has put his views forward and commented, “We are thrilled by the optimism among investors regarding the Modi government’s efforts to bolster the Indian startup ecosystem. This positive sentiment is a testament to the government’s progressive policies and initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. A robust startup ecosystem not only drives economic growth but also creates job opportunities and encourages technological advancements. Such a dynamic environment is essential for nurturing the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs.”
Gaurav Bhagat, Founder, of Gaurav Bhagat Academy also shared positive feedback, he said, “Certainly, investors are feeling optimistic. One major victory for startups was the abolition of the angel tax, which had been a top demand. Additionally, key policy decisions like the creation of an INR 1,000 crore venture capital (VC) fund and the reduction of TDS on e-commerce transactions from 1% to 0.1% highlight the government’s strong support for startups.”
This article has been contributed by Dr. Harshit Jain, Founder & Global CEO, Doceree.
In the continually evolving technological terrain, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning have stood out as the titans reshaping industries across the globe. In this revolution, healthcare emerges as a frontrunner, commanding a staggering 11% of the global GDP, and a hefty $9 trillion annually, according to WHO. Ranging from the creation of life-saving medications to improving diagnostic treatment to enabling precision in healthcare marketing practices, these technologies aren’t just tinkering around the edges, they’ve taking the centre stage in elevating every facet of the healthcare industry.
As new-age solutions seamlessly integrate into every stage of the healthcare journey, they mark a remarkable opportunity, propelling the entire healthcare ecosystem forward into a future of sustainable growth and profound societal impact.
In this piece, we will try to delve into the critical AI-powered mechanisms that create a future shaped with sustainable healthcare achievements for enhanced patient outcomes and quality treatment delivery.
Fostering Disease Accuracy Through Timely Diagnosis
The notion of employing technology for medical diagnosis isn’t novel. Yet, AI’s prowess ushers in a realm of advanced analysis and swifter decision-making, surpassing conventional diagnostic approaches. According to a recent industry study, India’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) diagnostics market is projected to grow from $0.02 billion in 2022 to $0.24 billion by 2030, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 38% during the forecast period of 2022-2030. This growth is primarily due to AI systems capabilities in early detection of chronic diseases like Alzheimer’s, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and several types of cancers including breast cancer and colon cancer, simultaneously reducing the financial burden and severity of the disease.
Additionally, with Government’s efforts towards fast tracking electronic health records (EHR) adoption in India, AI can again prove helpful in analysing patient data records for genetic testing results, lifestyle factors and more, thereby identifying patterns that may put individuals at risk for certain diseases. This will enable healthcare providers to intervene early with accurate preventative measures.
Enhanced Healthcare Delivery
The strategic application of AI triggers has demonstrated reliability in enabling compliant-friendly real-time mapping of patient data, enabling life sciences manufacturers to share relevant messages (as per the patient requirements) to healthcare providers (HCPs), empowering them to deliver quality treatment while tending to the patient. This fine-tunes treatment strategies by factoring in unique patient variables and forecasting outcomes, thus guaranteeing tailored care through intelligent analysis of patient data. Further, using machine learning algorithms and AI-driven chatbots, AI can swiftly analyse vast datasets that aid in furnishing immediate aid and reducing administrative pressures on healthcare providers (HCPs). In surgical settings, robotic support can improve precision, diminishing complications and recovery durations, particularly evident in cancer treatments.
Leveraging Explainable AI (XAI) For Transparency in Healthcare
While the accomplishments attained through the integration of AI in medicine are noteworthy, building trust and credibility around its accuracy among end-consumers, specifically patients, is paramount. Hence, the utilization of explainable AI (XAI) is crucial to uphold transparency and provide accurate knowledge about the technology to both healthcare providers (HCPs) implementing the technology and patients undergoing treatment facilitated by it. Amidst the complex ecosystem of medical decision-making, XAI clarifies the rationale behind AI-powered diagnosis and treatment suggestions to shed light on the process for the sake of transparency. Once HCPs understand how AI systems make decisions, they can leverage their expertise to fine-tune AI’s performance, ultimately bolstering confidence in the decisions made for both – HCPs and patients.
According to a recent EY report, 48% of healthcare and pharma companies in India are set to integrate First-Gen AI solution within the next year. Through crafting tailored machine learning algorithms, governmental bodies and life sciences enterprises can streamline laborious tasks, preserving both time and research funds, thereby bringing more efficiency into R&D endeavours. For instance, intelligent use of algorithms can help AI decipher biological data, identify potential drug targets as well as assess their interactions with specific receptors. Even during clinical trials, AI can play a pivotal role in enhancing efficiency by identifying suitable candidates (during session with HCP), predicting potential outcomes, optimizing trial designs, leading to more successful and expedited drug discovery processes.
On drug marketing front, AI-driven marketing solutions potentially present a promising avenue for slashing exorbitant marketing budgets and amplifying sales conversion rates through precisely targeted relevant messaging aimed at HCPs. This strategic approach not only ensures HCPs remain abreast of emerging drug treatments/research but also empowers pharmaceutical brands to promote their offerings at minimal expense.
Ai in Health Care Market
Harmonizing Digital with Eco-Friendly IoT
In India, conventional pharmaceutical marketing approaches predominantly involve face-to-face interactions between representatives and HCPs, leading to labour-intensive processes, carbon emissions, and energy depletion. Shifting towards AI-driven digital platforms can address these concerns, enabling streamlined engagement with millions of HCPs at the click, while concurrently reducing environmental impact and resource usage. Additionally, integrating AI with Green IoT emerges as the cornerstone of sustainable progress in healthcare, wherein Green-IoT-empowered medical equipment and wearables can collate health data for further analysis by AI algorithms to improve patient outcomes and make decision-making process for healthcare professionals (HCPs) much more efficient.
To sum up, as the future of healthcare highly depends on the technology and human expertise balance, it becomes crucial to dedicate considerable focus and resources to fostering responsible utilization and ethical deliberations throughout the stages of AI integration. This approach ensures sustainable technological advancement and guards against possible drawbacks, thereby ensuring that AI contributes positively to healthcare transformation. By aligning with societal values and priorities and optimizing its capabilities, AI can significantly enhance patient outcomes while upholding ethical standards and long-term sustainability.
Ashwini
