30% Growth in Startups in One Year
On May 19, the Madhya Pradesh Startup Center, dedicated to promoting innovation and entrepreneurship in the state, reported significant achievements for the financial year 2024–25. The increase in recognized startups, women-led ventures, and various initiatives to foster innovation made the past year highly successful.
Growth in Recognized Startups
In the past year, the number of recognized startups in the state rose from 4,012 to 5,230, registering a 30% growth. Women-led startups grew from 1,864 to 2,490, showing a 34% increase. This highlights the government's special focus on promoting women entrepreneurship. As of now, there are over 5,300 startups operating in Madhya Pradesh.
New Direction for Startup Investment
In the past year, the state partnered with SEBI-registered Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) to ensure funding for startups. Five AIFs were selected, out of which Silver Needle, Equanimity Ventures, and Unicorn India Ventures Fund invested a total of ₹10.90 crore. The state government contributed ₹3.03 crore as co-investment.
Policy Launch at Global Investors Summit
During the Global Investors Summit 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the new "MP Startup Policy and Implementation Plan 2025". Over 2,500 startups participated in the event. In the “Future Frontiers: Startup Pitching Session,” 20 startups pitched to investors, and 19 received expressions of interest.
Support for Women and Agri-Startups
To empower women entrepreneurs, the State Women Entrepreneurs Conference was held on August 13, 2024, where 40+ women-led startups participated. In the agriculture sector, GAP Fund was introduced to support agri-startups, providing them with funding and participation in various programs.
Startup Awareness Across the State
Throughout the year, the MP Startup Center participated in and organized over 50 events, collaborating with 20+ educational institutions, industry groups, and international forums. Initiatives like the Regional Industry Conclave and RAMP Scheme helped spread startup awareness.
Activities such as the "Startup Clinic," "Startup Mentorship Sessions," and "Incubator Outreach Workshops" provided a strong foundation for the startup culture in Madhya Pradesh. The Startup Center has built an ecosystem that nurtures innovation, investment, participation, and awareness.