70 startups seek Rs 1,500 cr investments at ASSOCHAM event

New Delhi: Around 70 startups sought investments worth nearly Rs 1,500 crore at the second edition of ASSOCHAM Investor Connect, which brought together entrepreneurs, investors, corporates and policymakers to strengthen India’s innovation-driven startup ecosystem, the industry body said on Saturday.

More than 450 startups from across the country applied for the programme, out of which 200 were shortlisted after a rigorous evaluation process aligned with the investment priorities of participating investors. A key highlight of this year’s event was the sharp rise in participation by young innovators, whose share increased to around 30 per cent from nearly 15 per cent in the inaugural edition, reflecting growing entrepreneurial aspirations among India’s youth.

Addressing the event, Dr Priyanka Shukla, CEO of MY Bharat under the Department of Youth Affairs, said India’s entrepreneurial future extends well beyond metropolitan cities. “India’s youth do not lack ideas — they need access, exposure, mentorship and opportunities. The next generation of founders will emerge not only from metros but also from Tier II, Tier III and Tier IV cities, villages and aspirational districts,” she said.