The Indian startup ecosystem had another strong week as companies across sectors raised over $296 million between September 29 and October 4, 2025. The numbers reflect growing investor confidence in India’s innovation economy, with both established and emerging startups attracting fresh capital. Fintech, wellness, deeptech, and retail startups dominated this week’s funding charts, showing that investors continue to back diverse and scalable business ideas.
HFS Tops the Chart with $90 Million Funding
The biggest fundraising deal of the week came from Hiranandani Financial Services (HFS), which secured $90 million to strengthen its lending portfolio and expand across new regions. The non-banking financial company (NBFC) focuses on empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs with easy access to credit. This large round demonstrates the growing investor appetite for well-structured financial service models in India.
Right behind HFS, wellness brand Kapiva drew attention with its $60 million funding round. Known for blending traditional Ayurveda with modern nutrition, Kapiva plans to expand its product range and strengthen its online and offline presence. Investors view wellness as one of the fastest-growing categories in India, especially as consumers turn to health-focused lifestyles.
Other big names contributing to the week’s total include Recur Club, which raised $50 million to expand its AI-driven debt marketplace, GrowXCD, which received $22.5 million in funding for its SME lending platform, and Art of Time, which secured $19.7 million to scale its luxury watch retail business. These large rounds together made up a significant chunk of the week’s total capital raised.
Emerging Startups Steal the Spotlight
While the spotlight often falls on major deals, several early- and mid-stage startups also impressed investors this week. Petpooja, a restaurant technology platform, raised $15.4 million to enhance its digital solutions for eateries and food outlets. Hocco, a premium ice cream brand, received $12.9 million, while Assessli, a deeptech startup, bagged $5 million to accelerate its AI-driven solutions. Fintech ventures like RUGR Fintech, Fyno, and Ignosis also attracted funding in the $4–5 million range, proving that investor interest in financial technology remains high.
In the climate and AI sectors, Climaty AI raised $2 million, Vama, a faithtech startup, secured $2.5 million, and Unmannd, a defence-tech innovator, received $2 million. Early-stage venture Vaani AI Research also made headlines with a $400,000 pre-seed round, showcasing the continued momentum in India’s deeptech scene.
Acquisitions Add to the Action
Apart from fundraising, the week also saw a few key acquisition deals. TBO Tek acquired Classic Vacations, a US-based travel company, in a move aimed at global expansion. Meanwhile, NRL Recycling strengthened its portfolio by acquiring Tycod Autotech, highlighting growing consolidation trends within India’s sustainability and tech ecosystem. These deals underline how Indian startups are not only raising funds but also building strategic alliances to scale faster.
India’s Innovation Engine Keeps Moving
The week’s $296 million haul underscores the resilience of India’s startup economy. Despite global market uncertainties, investor interest remains strong across sectors. Established firms like HFS are proving that financial services continue to attract big money, while newer players in AI, climate, and consumer goods are gaining their own share of attention. This mix of large institutional rounds and promising early-stage deals reflects a balanced and maturing ecosystem.
With over a dozen startups securing funds in just seven days, India continues to show why it’s one of the world’s most dynamic startup hubs. As the year progresses, all signs point to a steady rise in both funding volume and deal activity, keeping the country’s innovation engine running at full speed.