Priya patelTLDR:
- Indian startups faced a 72% drop in funding in 2023 compared to the previous year.
- Late-stage startups experienced a 70% decline in capital raised.
- E-commerce emerged as the dominant sector for funding rounds.
- Top-funded startups included PhonePe, Lenskart, and Udaan.
- Startups achieved unicorn status faster in 2023.
- India ranked third globally in the number of unicorns birthed.
- Only two new unicorns emerged in 2023.
- Profitability became a priority for 23 unicorns, setting the stage for IPOs in the future.
Indian startups faced a significant funding downturn in 2023 with a 72% drop compared to the previous year. Late-stage startups were the most affected, experiencing a 70% decline in capital raised. However, funding challenges were pervasive across all stages, with early-stage and seed-stage startups also seeing significant reductions in funding.
Despite the challenges, a total of 97 funds were raised in 2023, totaling $158 billion. E-commerce emerged as the dominant sector for funding rounds, with Bengaluru-based startups leading the way. Top-funded late-stage startups included PhonePe, Lenskart, and Udaan, while top-funded early-stage startups included Insurance Dekho and Sarvamai.
In 2023, startups achieved unicorn status faster, with the average duration decreasing to 5.5 years. India ranked third globally in the number of unicorns birthed, with 15 public listings. However, only two new unicorns emerged in 2023, accompanied by a decline in acquisitions.
Profitability became a priority for 23 unicorns in 2023, setting the stage for future IPOs. The focus on profitability indicates a shift in strategy and a maturing of the Indian startup ecosystem.
