Startup news, 24 September 2026

185 briefs

• Accelevation eyes $5.4B valuation in US IPO, seeks $720M

  Accelevation, based in Miamisburg, Ohio, plans to raise up to $720 million by offering 30 million shares at $20–$24 each in a US IPO. The company and some selling shareholders are targeting a valuatio

  Reported by economictimes.indiatimes.com

• University of Alberta launches regenerative medicine hub

  The University of Alberta introduced a regenerative medicine hub during Life Sciences Week. The initiative aims to bring together healthcare stakeholders to speed up the commercialization of treatment

  Reported by betakit.com

• Bird&Be secures $13M Series A for fertility health platform

  A Toronto-based company offering reproductive health supplements and test kits has closed a $13-million USD Series A round. Bird&Be’s platform focuses on fertility support, providing products directly

  Reported by betakit.com

• TD Bank partners with Cohere in $25M AI collaboration

  Canada’s TD Bank is investing in AI through a $25 million partnership with Cohere, a Toronto-based large language model developer. The deal involves TD’s in-house AI unit, Layer 6, working with Cohere

  Reported by betakit.com

• Snorkel AI valuation hits $3.5B with $350M raise amid data demand

  Snorkel AI, a startup focused on AI training data, has secured a $350 million Series E round. The funding arrives seven years into its push to offer data-as-a-service, tripling its valuation to $3.5 b

  Reported by techcrunch.com

• Ola Electric shares climb 10% despite broker caution

  Ola Electric’s stock rose nearly 10% in a three-session rally, pushing gains to 86% over six months from its March low. Trading volumes remain weak, and brokerages warn of thin margins and ongoing cas

  Reported by economictimes.indiatimes.com

• Ex-fintech founder bootstraps AI startup after major exit

  A founder who previously exited one of Europe’s largest fintech companies has launched an AI startup without external funding. The move follows a high-profile sale and reflects a shift toward building

  Reported by sifted.eu

• Qdrant shifts focus from vector search to physical AI

  Qdrant, known for its open-source vector search engine, is pivoting toward physical AI. The Berlin-based startup plans to apply its search technology to robotics and embodied systems, moving beyond it

  Reported by sifted.eu

• Rare materials startup secures £10m seed in dual-VC led round

  A startup focused on rare materials has closed a £10m seed round. Vsquared and East X Ventures co-led the investment, marking a push into a niche with supply chain and industrial applications. The com

  Reported by sifted.eu

• Indian startup debuts pain-free livestock pregnancy detection kit

  Big Nano Ventures has developed a non-invasive kit to detect early pregnancy in dairy livestock. The tool helps farmers manage animal health more effectively and has gained national recognition for it

  Reported by economictimes.indiatimes.com

• Startup tackles unused corporate data as new asset class

  A company is developing tools to let businesses monetize or operationalize data that currently sits idle. The approach treats underutilized internal data as a potential revenue stream or efficiency dr

  Reported by sifted.eu

• Toronto startup Blair Health raises $4.2M for women’s care access

  Blair Health, a Toronto-based startup, has secured funding to reduce wait times for specialized women’s healthcare. The company offers care typically requiring a specialist without the traditional del

  Reported by betakit.com

• AI-driven performance reviews spark debate in workplaces

  Companies are adopting AI tools to evaluate employee performance, prompting discussions about transparency and bias. Critics argue these systems lack accountability, while proponents claim they remove

  Reported by sifted.eu

• Anthropic and OpenAI cut AI model costs amid pricing pressure

  Anthropic and OpenAI have released new AI models focused on reducing inference costs and improving safety measures. The moves come as competition in the AI space pushes providers to balance affordabil

  Reported by inc42.com

• DiffuseDrive tackles missing data for Physical AI training

  Autonomous systems struggle with rare or hazardous scenarios because real-world training data is scarce. DiffuseDrive is addressing this gap, focusing on situations that are difficult or unsafe to cap

  Reported by tech.eu

• Stasher raises £3M to grow global luggage storage network

  London-based traveltech firm Stasher has secured £3 million in funding to expand its luggage storage marketplace and smart locker network globally. The round includes roughly £2 million in equity, wit

  Reported by tech.eu

• Blink Digital sues Meta for ₹1,000 cr over disabled ad accounts

  Advertising agency Blink Digital has filed a lawsuit against Meta and its Indian entity, Facebook India Online Services, seeking ₹1,000 crore in damages. The suit alleges wrongful disabling of ad acco

  Reported by inc42.com

• AI agents monitor key metrics for businesses in new startup

  A Seattle-based startup assigns AI agents to track individual business metrics, alerting teams when numbers shift. The company, founded by ex-Amazon and Opendoor executives, secured $3 million in seed

  Reported by geekwire.com

• Canadian tire shops deploy first automated tire-changing robot

  A startup has installed its first robotic tire-changing system in Canada. The machine completes a four-tire change in under 15 minutes, according to the company. No human intervention is required once

  Reported by techcrunch.com

• 70 D2C founders gather for Inc42’s third retreat on private island

  Inc42 hosted its third D2C Retreat, bringing together over 70 founders whose companies generate a combined revenue of ₹30,000 crore. The three-day event took place on a private island, focusing on net

  Reported by inc42.com

• Flux adds tools to track ROI on AI coding investments

  Flux Cyber has updated its engineering intelligence platform to help leaders measure the impact of AI on software development. The new tools aim to address a recurring question among engineering teams

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• NextLM launches AI sales tool on Google Cloud Marketplace

  NextLM, a New York startup, has made its AI-driven prospecting agent available through Google Cloud Marketplace and Gemini Enterprise. The software uses behavioral analysis and custom AI models to hel

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Multiples leads $150M round in Brahma AI, Prime Focus-backed firm

  Brahma AI, an audiovisual content platform backed by Prime Focus, has secured $150 million in funding led by Multiples Alternate Asset Management. The investment marks one of the larger recent rounds

  Reported by inc42.com

• Databricks acquires Row Zero to enhance AI platform with cloud spreadsheets

  Databricks has acquired Row Zero, a Seattle-based startup founded in 2021 by ex-Amazon engineers. The company developed a spreadsheet designed to handle millions of rows at cloud scale without perform

  Reported by msn.com, ua.news, geekwire.com

• ZeroDrift debuts real-time AI compliance models for messaging

  ZeroDrift Inc. released Anchor 3.0, a set of small language models that screen AI-generated messages in real time. The models are built to enforce compliance with regulations like financial rules befo

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Lookout adds AI scam detection to mobile security suite

  Lookout has introduced a new module to identify AI-driven text and voice scams targeting employees. The tool, Social Engineering Protection, scans messages and calls for manipulation attempts, aiming

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Basecamp Research hits $800M valuation with $140M AI drug discovery round

  An AI-driven drug development company secured a $140 million funding round, pushing its valuation to $800 million. The oversubscribed investment was spearheaded by S32, with backing from Nvidia, Anthr

  Reported by economictimes.indiatimes.com

• Confido secures $55M to automate CPG back-office operations

  Confido, which builds AI infrastructure for consumer packaged goods companies, has raised funding to expand. The platform moves beyond tracking problems to executing fixes, attracting over 250 brands,

  Reported by alleywatch.com

• Fintech Viva Money bets on human touch in digital lending

  While most fintech lenders prioritize speed and automation, Viva Money is distinguishing itself by emphasizing direct customer engagement. The company focuses on building relationships and listening t

  Reported by yourstory.com

• Adani reclaims top spot on India’s rich list ahead of Ambani

  Gautam Adani has regained the title of India’s wealthiest individual, surpassing Mukesh Ambani in the M3M Hurun India Rich List 2026. Adani’s net worth is listed at Rs 9.23 lakh crore ($96 billion), w

  Reported by yourstory.com

• Bessemer allocates $4B of new $5.75B fund to growth-stage startups

  San Francisco venture firm Bessemer has closed a $5.75 billion fund, directing $4 billion to growth-stage companies. The remaining $1.75 billion will target earlier-stage startups. Partner Byron Deete

  Reported by economictimes.indiatimes.com

• Bird secures $450M debt amid AI pivot and sharp headcount cut

  Bird, a European business communications platform, has raised $450 million in debt financing. The company, once compared to Twilio, is now repositioning as an AI-focused business. Its workforce has sh

  Reported by tech.eu

• TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 to examine AI's impact on VC rules

  TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 will host StrictlyVC for discussions on how AI is reshaping venture capital. The event offers exclusive investor sessions, with a discount available until late September.

  Reported by techcrunch.com

• Story on identity and self-acceptance shares lessons for readers

  A narrative titled *Why Is My Skin Brown?* explores themes of identity, belonging, and confidence. It presents five lessons focused on self-acceptance, derived from personal storytelling rather than b

  Reported by yourstory.com

• UK fitness mirror startup Magic AI secures £8m for US expansion

  Magic AI, a London-based company developing an AI-powered fitness mirror, has raised £8 million. The funding will support its push into the US market, where similar smart home fitness devices have gai

  Reported by sifted.eu

• PhysicsWallah shifts focus to South India for next growth phase

  Edtech platform PhysicsWallah will spend the next two years expanding across five South Indian states. The move relies on local partnerships, multilingual content, and an expanded curriculum. Founder

  Reported by yourstory.com

• Zelio E-Mobility to raise ₹168 Cr through preferential issue

  Zelio E-Mobility’s board has approved a plan to secure up to ₹167.95 Cr by issuing preferential shares. The funds will support the electric vehicle manufacturer’s expansion efforts, though specific al

  Reported by inc42.com

• BYJU’S resolves dispute with Aakash over rights issue

  Edtech firm BYJU’S has settled a dispute with Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL) regarding a rights issue. The agreement ends a legal conflict between the two companies, though details of the

  Reported by inc42.com

• Adaptive secures $30M to grow AI agents in construction

  Construction software firm Adaptive has raised $30 million in a Series B round, pushing its total funding to $57 million. Investors call its AI workforce tools a staple in their portfolio companies’ t

  Reported by alleywatch.com

• Enterprises shift AI focus from models to data infrastructure

  Companies scaling AI initiatives are finding that data access and control—not just model performance—determine success. This has led to increased investment in AI infrastructure to support deployment.

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Ola Electric eyes rights issue after board approves Rs 1,500 cr fundraise

  Ola Electric is preparing a rights issue to raise additional capital, pending regulatory approvals. The move follows a recent board decision to secure up to Rs 1,500 crore through equity and other sec

  Reported by economictimes.indiatimes.com

• PhysicsWallah partners with South Indian university for AI courses

  PhysicsWallah has struck a five-year deal with Mohan Babu University to deliver online courses in AI, skilling, and career development. The collaboration will cover nearly 18,000 students, marking the

  Reported by economictimes.indiatimes.com

• Rabbit unveils cloud-based AI agent OS3 for personal devices

  Rabbit Inc. has introduced OS3, a cloud-hosted AI agent that links to personal devices. The company, known for its pocket-sized R1 AI device, positions OS3 as a tool to access files and interact with

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• RPS Ventures exits Meesho with ₹900 Cr stake sale

  RPS Ventures sold 3.9 crore shares of ecommerce firm Meesho on the BSE, realizing ₹899.7 crore. The transaction marks a full or partial exit for the investor, though Meesho’s valuation post-sale was n

  Reported by inc42.com

• Canada allocates $67M to dual-use life sciences research hubs

  The Canadian government is directing $67 million into life sciences research with both civilian and defense applications. Funding will go to organizations in Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia, al

  Reported by betakit.com

• FSSAI penalises Amazon, Flipkart, Instamart for compliance failures

  India’s food safety regulator has taken action against ecommerce and quick-commerce platforms, including Amazon, Flipkart, and Instamart, for violating food safety regulations. The penalties follow in

  Reported by inc42.com

• Carbon capture startup pivots to oil recovery amid funding squeeze

  Spiritus, a startup initially focused on removing CO2 from the air for underground storage, has shifted its business model. The company will now sell captured carbon to oil producers to enhance fossil

  Reported by bloomberg.com

• FoodTech Summit at Techsauce 2026 tackles lab-to-market gap

  The FoodTech Summit at Techsauce Global Summit 2026 convened policymakers, researchers, food companies, investors, and founders to address how food innovations can transition from lab research to real

  Reported by techsauce.co

• AI agents pose new security risks for enterprises

  Security for AI agents now hinges on understanding their post-access capabilities. These agents can operate across applications, delegate tasks to others, and execute changes faster than security team

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• ByteDance unit used Nscale to bypass US chip export rules

  A ByteDance subsidiary reportedly relied on Nscale to secure Nvidia chips, circumventing US restrictions. The arrangement allowed access to hardware despite export controls targeting Chinese firms. De

  Reported by sifted.eu

• Fortinet opens $30M cybersecurity hub in Calgary

  A global cybersecurity firm has established a $30 million hub in Calgary, marking another expansion by an international tech company into the city. The move reflects growing interest in Calgary’s tech

  Reported by betakit.com

• Ola Electric seeks board approval for ₹1,500 Cr rights issue

  Ola Electric’s board will consider a rights issue to raise up to ₹1,500 crore, following recent approval for the fundraising plan. The move comes as the company prepares for an IPO and expands its ele

  Reported by inc42.com

• Startup builds rare-earth-free electric motors for drones, robots

  A new company is developing small, lightweight electric motors without rare-earth magnets. The design targets applications like drones, fans, and robots, aiming to reduce reliance on Chinese supply ch

  Reported by techcrunch.com

• AI biotech Enveda raises $311M at $2B valuation for nature-derived drugs

  Enveda, an AI-driven biotech firm, has secured funding to advance its pipeline of drugs derived from natural compounds. The company is currently trialing treatments for skin conditions and a therapy a

  Reported by techcrunch.com

• Dell shifts private cloud strategy as AI reshapes infrastructure needs

  Enterprises are reevaluating private cloud infrastructure as artificial intelligence workloads change system requirements. Cost considerations and workload placement are driving a rethink of tradition

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Silicon Valley interest grows in Tailscale, a remote networking tool

  Tailscale, a startup offering secure remote network access, has drawn attention from Silicon Valley investors and companies. The tool simplifies connecting devices without traditional VPNs. Separately

  Reported by betakit.com

• AI-driven workforce economics merges finance and HR in C-suite

  Companies are aligning finance and human resources more closely as they integrate AI, determining where automation fits and where human roles add value. IBM is among those structuring this shift, focu

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Femtech funding gap highlighted at industry conference

  A recent Femtech Connect conference examined disparities in funding for women-led femtech startups. While women founders dominate the sector, they receive a disproportionately small share of investmen

  Reported by betakit.com

• Oracle refocuses security on data layer as AI agents expand access

  Oracle is adjusting security controls to address risks from automated systems interacting directly with enterprise data. Traditional application-level protections may not suffice as AI agents gain bro

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Oracle moves database security closer to AI agents

  Oracle is adjusting database security controls to enforce authorization for AI agents, not just traditional applications or users. The shift aims to address new access paths created by AI, ensuring pr

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Microsoft merges Sentinel and Defender into AI-powered SOC

  Microsoft is consolidating its security tools by embedding Sentinel’s security information and event management capabilities into Defender. The new Integrated Security Operations Center (ISOC) shifts

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• AI reshapes enterprise roles, merging finance and HR

  Traditional corporate silos are dissolving as AI integrates human talent and financial data into a single framework. The shift, termed 'workforce economics,' blurs the lines between finance, HR, and o

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• AI infrastructure shifts from chips to full-system architecture

  The next phase of AI hardware isn’t about individual GPUs or chips. Compute, memory, networking, and software are merging into a unified systems architecture, with sovereignty emerging as a byproduct.

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• UiPath adds workflow automation and testing features at FUSION

  UiPath unveiled over a dozen updates to its automation platform at its FUSION conference in Las Vegas. The new features, aimed at reducing time spent by knowledge workers, include workflow automation

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Woveo and BDC launch $10M microlending program for SMBs

  Woveo has teamed up with the Business Development Bank of Canada to create a $10-million microlending initiative. The program targets small and medium-sized businesses seeking expanded access to capit

  Reported by betakit.com

• Contact center industry drops long-held metric at AI summit

  At a recent AI ROI in Contact Centers Summit, industry leaders signaled readiness to abandon a key performance metric. The event, co-hosted by theCUBE Research, focused on this shift rather than a spe

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Revolut rolls out facial recognition payments in UK stores

  Revolut has launched facial recognition payment technology in UK retail stores. Customers can now authorize transactions by scanning their face at checkout, eliminating the need for cards or phones. T

  Reported by sifted.eu

• TechCrunch Founder Summit returns to Boston on November 4

  TechCrunch will host its Founder Summit in Boston this November, a one-day event for founders at any stage. The gathering focuses on networking with investors and seasoned entrepreneurs, offering prac

  Reported by techcrunch.com

• Clio CEO argues Canadian VCs should offer local startups better terms

  Clio CEO Jack Newton has criticized Canadian venture capital firms for seeking discounted terms from domestic companies. He contends that VCs should instead provide local startups with a competitive e

  Reported by betakit.com

• Europe urged to accelerate AI adoption amid US dominance

  Europe’s skepticism toward AI leaves its enterprises vulnerable to AI-driven cyber threats and at a competitive disadvantage against US firms, according to Holger Mueller, VP and principal analyst. Wh

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Book extracts highlight resilience and social challenges

  A recent article outlines five lessons from *The Grammar of Silence* by R Seshasayee, focusing on themes of resilience, courage, identity, and confronting social barriers. The book’s insights are pres

  Reported by yourstory.com

• Quotes on human connection highlight digital-era anxieties

  A recent piece extracted five quotes on the importance of real human relationships from *The Anxious Generation*. The focus centers on how modern social dynamics, particularly in a digitally saturated

  Reported by yourstory.com

• Palo Alto Networks addresses security risks of autonomous AI agents

  Palo Alto Networks is adapting its security approach to account for autonomous AI agents, which can act independently, retain data, and use tools—shifting risk beyond just language-based interactions.

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Databricks acquires Row Zero, eyes more deals in 2026

  Databricks has added cloud spreadsheet startup Row Zero to its recent string of acquisitions. The purchase marks another step in the company’s 2026 acquisition push, though details on terms or integra

  Reported by techcrunch.com

• Accenture adopts Oracle security to shift trust boundaries to databases

  Oracle’s Deep Data Security repositions trust boundaries from AI-driven applications to databases. Accenture is integrating the approach, led by its generative AI innovation team, to redefine enterpri

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Google rolls out two new text-to-speech models via Cloud

  Google has added two text-to-speech models, Gemini 3.8 Flash TTS and Gemini 3.8 Flash-Lite TTS, to its cloud platform. Both share nearly identical APIs, simplifying integration for developers. The lig

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Investors bet on premium kitchen brands as consumer spending shifts

  Venture capitalists are targeting kitchen startups, mirroring trends in beauty and home goods where buyers pay more for improved experiences. The shift reflects broader consumer willingness to invest

  Reported by economictimes.indiatimes.com

• Amazon rolls out AI tools for third-party sellers

  Amazon introduced a plugin allowing independent sellers on its platform to manage their e-commerce operations through AI assistants. The tools were unveiled at the company’s annual seller conference,

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Zoho debuts Zia Chat to unify data across systems with cost control

  At TechSparks 2026, Zoho unveiled Zia Chat, an AI interface designed to connect disparate data sources. The tool prioritizes token efficiency to maintain affordability, addressing a common barrier for

  Reported by yourstory.com

• Gupshup shifts focus to AI for enterprise growth

  Gupshup, known for its enterprise messaging platform, is now prioritizing AI as its next growth driver. The move builds on its existing customer base rather than launching a standalone AI product. Det

  Reported by inc42.com

• Meta unveils lighter VR glasses in renewed metaverse push

  Meta introduced a new virtual reality device, the Meta VR Glasses, positioning it as smaller and lighter than its existing Quest headsets. The launch marks another attempt by CEO Mark Zuckerberg to ad

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Europe’s AI safety startups mapped in 37-company overview

  A recent analysis identified 37 European startups focused on AI safety, spanning risk assessment, alignment research, and governance tools. The companies operate across sectors like healthcare, financ

  Reported by sifted.eu

• UK VC chief: Selling to US buyers isn’t a failed outcome

  Northern Gritstone’s CEO has argued that exiting to American acquirers should not be viewed as a shortcoming for UK startups. The comments follow criticism of domestic firms being bought by overseas b

  Reported by sifted.eu

• Anthropic pledges not to compete with AI startups

  Anthropic has stated it has no plans to build products that directly compete with startups in its ecosystem. The AI lab aims to focus on foundational models while leaving applications to external deve

  Reported by sifted.eu

• DeepMind alum Simon Kohl leaves Big Tech for research independence

  Simon Kohl, a former DeepMind researcher known for his work on medical AI, has departed big tech to establish his own lab. He cited the constraints of corporate environments as limiting for frontier r

  Reported by sifted.eu

• 50skills secures $6M to automate HR workflows with AI OS

  An AI operating system designed for people workflows, 50skills, has closed a $6 million funding round. The capital will help scale its platform, which focuses on automating HR and related processes. F

  Reported by tech.eu

• Estonian military partners with defence VC Archangel for three-year tech pact

  The Estonian Defence Forces (EDF) and venture capital firm Archangel have agreed to a three-year collaboration aimed at advancing defence technology. The partnership will focus on supporting developme

  Reported by tech.eu

• Qonto opens larger Paris HQ, signaling expansion

  French neobank Qonto has moved into a new 11,000-square-meter headquarters in central Paris, nearly twice the size of its previous office. The company described the relocation as a milestone, though n

  Reported by tech.eu

• Amazon halts Rs 82,740 Surf Excel listings after viral consumer stunt

  An Amazon India listing priced a Rs 185 Surf Excel detergent pack at Rs 82,740. The error went viral on Twitter, with users suggesting buyers exploit the glitch for consumer court claims. Amazon subse

  Reported by yourstory.com

• TVS Motor's 29-year land lease to Hanno surfaces amid Tata row

  Corporate filings show TVS Motor leased land to Hanno, a company backed by Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran’s family, under a 29-year build-to-suit agreement. The disclosure comes as governance dis

  Reported by yourstory.com

• NUS Enterprise opens first European hub in Munich with UnternehmerTUM

  Singapore’s National University of Singapore (NUS) Enterprise has launched its first European outpost in Munich, partnering with local entrepreneur hub UnternehmerTUM. The collaboration aims to bridge

  Reported by tech.eu

• OpenAI, Anthropic CEOs urge UN to address AI risks

  OpenAI’s Sam Altman and Anthropic’s Dario Amodei addressed the UN Security Council, highlighting risks posed by increasingly powerful AI systems. The leaders emphasized the need for global oversight a

  Reported by inc42.com

• Firi raises $3M led by 360 ONE Asset for beauty quick-commerce

  Gurugram-based quick-commerce startup Firi has secured $3 million in a funding round. The round was led by 360 ONE Asset, with participation from Better Capital, Kunal Shah, and other angel investors.

  Reported by exchange4media.com

• YourStory releases daily startup news roundup for September 24, 2026

  YourStory published its daily digest of startup developments in India and globally for September 24, 2026. The roundup covers funding, launches, and other key updates from the ecosystem, though specif

  Reported by yourstory.com

• Moxing secures $150M at $1.5B valuation for low-cost 4D AI infrastructure

  Moxing has raised $150 million at a $1.5 billion valuation to expand MoWorld 4D, an AI infrastructure platform running on Huawei Ascend NPUs. The system delivers 50 FPS inference at 30% of the cost of

  Reported by ventureburn.com

• Accel, 360 ONE exit BlueStone via ₹513 cr block deals

  Institutional investors Accel and 360 ONE sold a combined 61.98 lakh shares of omnichannel jewellery retailer BlueStone through block deals. The transactions, totaling ₹513 crore, mark a partial exit

  Reported by inc42.com

• TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 reveals Startup Battlefield 200 judges

  TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 will feature a new group of venture capitalists judging its Startup Battlefield 200 competition. The event’s pitch contest remains a key platform for early-stage startups. Regi

  Reported by techcrunch.com

• Two IPO-bound Indian startups secure anchor funding ahead of listing

  AceVector, the parent company of Snapdeal, has secured ₹189 crore from anchor investors before its IPO opens. Separately, fintech unicorn Moneyview raised ₹327.5 crore from anchors in the same pre-lis

  Reported by inc42.com, inc42.com

• ESDS, Captain Fresh post mixed Q1, FY26 results ahead of IPOs

  Enterprise cloud firm ESDS reported a 14% year-on-year rise in Q1 net profit, while revenue grew 7%. Meanwhile, seafood marketplace Captain Fresh saw profits halve despite a 52% revenue jump in FY26.

  Reported by inc42.com, inc42.com

• DTCP closes €455M fund to back European defence tech startups

  DTCP has secured €455 million for its first defence-focused fund, drawing commitments from European institutional and strategic investors. The fund targets scaling tech capabilities in the defence sec

  Reported by tech.eu

• Italian Kubernetes firm Clastix secures €2.9M seed funding

  Clastix, an Italy-based company focused on simplifying Kubernetes operations at scale, has raised €2.9 million in seed funding. The capital will go toward expanding its team and speeding up platform d

  Reported by tech.eu

• DTCP closes €455m defence fund, eyes more sector-focused vehicles

  European growth investor DTCP has secured €455 million for its first dedicated defence fund, marking a shift into a sector it previously avoided. The firm plans additional funds targeting other indust

  Reported by sifted.eu

• Amsterdam fintech Duqu secures €1.5M for AI-driven invoice advances

  Duqu, an Amsterdam-based fintech, has closed a €1.5 million pre-seed round from Curiosity VC and No Such Ventures. The startup offers short-term advances to businesses using outstanding B2B invoices,

  Reported by tech.eu

• Ola Electric shares climb 88% from low, secures PLI funds

  After five consecutive days of gains, Ola Electric’s stock rose another 2.5%, though it remains below earlier highs. The company received Rs 536.3 crore in incentives under India’s PLI scheme and plan

  Reported by economictimes.indiatimes.com

• Srijan Realty launches 702-unit Kolkata residential project Orizon

  Srijan Realty has introduced Orizon, a 702-unit residential development in Kolkata. Located on 8.3 acres along the Southern EM Bypass, the project features six towers, 80% open space, and barrier-free

  Reported by yourstory.com

• UK startup targets enterprise AI with new category

  A London-based company is developing AI tools aimed at businesses, positioning itself as a distinct segment within enterprise software. The startup focuses on automating workflows rather than replacin

  Reported by sifted.eu

• Norwegian startup Cerebionics decodes human intent for machine control

  Cerebionics, founded by Norwegian entrepreneur Agnessa P, is developing technology to translate human intent into machine commands. The startup's approach leverages neural signals to enable direct bra

  Reported by tech.eu

• Google Cloud ties Gemini AI to India’s enterprise push

  Google Cloud unveiled plans to move AI pilots into production for Indian businesses, pairing Gemini models with its infrastructure. The strategy, presented in Bengaluru, relies on partnerships across

  Reported by yourstory.com

• Fintech Crux Analytics secures €1.9M to improve bank-SME ties

  A Berlin-based startup focused on bridging gaps between banks and small businesses has closed a €1.9 million seed round. Crux Analytics aims to help financial institutions better engage and retain SME

  Reported by tech.eu

• Moneyview IPO launches to fund loan growth and NBFC expansion

  Digital lender Moneyview opened its IPO for subscription this week, aiming to secure capital for additional lending and bolster its non-banking financial company subsidiary. The offering marks the lat

  Reported by economictimes.indiatimes.com

• Assam startups see half of ventures led by women founders

  A recent survey found that women lead about half of Assam’s startup ventures. The data highlights a shift in founder demographics within the state’s emerging ecosystem, contrasting with broader nation

  Reported by yourstory.com

• India tech funding grows modestly in 2026, shifts to larger bets

  Indian technology companies secured $10.3 billion in funding in 2026, according to a Tracxn report. The capital is flowing into fewer deals, with investors favoring larger, high-conviction investments

  Reported by yourstory.com

• PhonePe to recruit 20k sales staff for rural payment push

  PhonePe will hire 20,000 frontline sales personnel to deploy 5 million payment devices, half targeted at rural India. The move aims to expand its merchant network in smaller towns and villages, where

  Reported by yourstory.com

• Swiss tech raises €1.1B in H1 2026 with concentrated funding

  Switzerland’s tech sector secured over €1.1 billion in the first half of 2026. The top ten funding rounds made up roughly two-thirds of the total, reflecting a narrow distribution of capital. No singl

  Reported by tech.eu

• AI platform for multi-location businesses raises €400K pre-seed

  Reply Next, an AI tool designed to help businesses manage digital presence across multiple locations, has secured €400,000 in pre-seed funding. The round was led by 4Founders Capital, an independent i

  Reported by tech.eu

• Catalonia expands India trade ties with new Delhi office, tech focus

  Catalonia’s business minister is visiting India to bolster economic ties, following €652 million in exports. The region plans to open a New Delhi office, targeting investments in AI, deeptech, and sem

  Reported by yourstory.com

• Ema secures $77M Series B to expand AI workforce platform

  Bengaluru-based AI startup Ema has raised $77 million in a Series B round led by local investors. The company develops a universal AI employee platform designed to automate enterprise workflows. This

  Reported by inc42.com

• Nykaa and L’Oréal’s BOLD fund to co-invest in Indian beauty brands

  Mumbai-based Nykaa has partnered with L’Oréal’s corporate venture arm, BOLD, to jointly back beauty and personal care startups in India. The collaboration was disclosed in a regulatory filing, though

  Reported by economictimes.indiatimes.com

• Revolut faces new security breach affecting customers

  Revolut customers have reported unauthorized transactions and account access issues in a fresh security incident. The fintech firm confirmed the breach but has not disclosed its scale or cause. This f

  Reported by sifted.eu

• NPCI head calls for UPI MDR to fund cybersecurity costs

  NPCI Managing Director Dilip Asbe stated that a market-driven economic model for UPI, including merchant discount rates (MDR), is necessary to cover rising cybersecurity, scalability, and infrastructu

  Reported by inc42.com

• AI reshapes startup funding timing and allocation strategies

  A CIBC podcast explores how AI is prompting founders to adjust when they raise capital and how they distribute it. The shift reflects broader changes in investor expectations and operational demands i

  Reported by betakit.com

• Pat Gelsinger-backed PicoJool raises $27.5M for AI data center bandwidth

  PicoJool, a startup with backing from former Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger, has secured $27.5 million in Series A funding. The round was led by Socratic Partners. The company aims to address bandwidth const

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Databricks acquires Row Zero to enhance AI-powered spreadsheets

  Databricks has acquired Seattle-based Row Zero, a startup founded in 2021 by former AWS engineers. Row Zero developed a spreadsheet platform designed to handle millions of rows at cloud scale without

  Reported by msn.com

• SEDEMAC investors exit via ₹1.46K Cr bulk deals post-IPO lock-in

  SEDEMAC’s institutional backers—A91 Partners, Xponentia, NJRN Family Trust, and Mace Pvt Ltd—sold shares in bulk deals worth ₹1,456.4 crore shortly after the IPO lock-in period expired. The transactio

  Reported by inc42.com

• Moneyview IPO sees 1.44x subscription on day one

  Moneyview’s ₹1,092 crore initial public offering drew 1.44 times the shares on offer by the close of its first trading day. The fintech firm’s debut on the public markets marks a measured but steady i

  Reported by inc42.com

• Humble Hope Foundation expands grassroots support in Pulwama

  A nonprofit in Pulwama is addressing gaps in healthcare, child protection, mental health, and livelihoods for underserved communities. The Humble Hope Foundation operates across multiple sectors witho

  Reported by yourstory.com

• Starfish Space readies NASA-backed Otter spacecraft for orbital debut

  Starfish Space is preparing its Otter spacecraft for its first in-space test. The vehicle, designed to inspect defunct satellites, will fly as part of NASA’s SSPICY mission. The company’s technology a

  Reported by geekwire.com

• Stravito adds AI tool integration for market research access

  Stockholm-based Stravito has launched a Model Context Protocol server, allowing enterprises to pull its consumer and market research directly into AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Microsoft Copilot.

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Dataiku adds AI agent tracking, expands no-code agent builder

  Dataiku introduced Agent Management, a tool to monitor AI agents across platforms, including those from other vendors. The company also enhanced Cobuild, its natural-language agent for building AI pro

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Dextr AI exits stealth with $6.7M to automate hotel operations

  A new startup is targeting hotels with AI agents designed to manage reservations, guest inquiries, and staff coordination. Dextr AI has secured seed funding to develop the technology, aiming to handle

  Reported by news.crunchbase.com

• Groundcover acquires Wand in first deal for Kubernetes optimization

  Observability platform groundcover has acquired Wand, a startup focused on Kubernetes resource optimization. The deal marks groundcover’s first acquisition, with Wand’s team joining the company. Finan

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• European startups eye New York as investor interest grows

  European tech founders are increasingly targeting New York for funding and partnerships, drawn by a shift in investor appetite. While Silicon Valley remains dominant, some U.S. firms are now actively

  Reported by sifted.eu

• Dutch venture studio OWOW raises €2.65M to target traditional industries

  Eindhoven’s OWOW Venture Studio has closed a €2.65 million round from eight family offices and angel investors. The studio will use the funds to launch and scale early-stage B2B startups, concentratin

  Reported by tech.eu

• Google Cloud exec: Engineering now a mindset over degree in India

  Amit Kumar of Google Cloud India argues enterprises are moving beyond AI model discussions to focus on agentic value, hybrid cloud sovereignty, and a broader engineering mindset. The shift reflects In

  Reported by yourstory.com

• Pernia’s Pop-Up Shop narrows losses as revenue grows in Q1

  Purple Style Labs, parent company of Pernia’s Pop-Up Shop, reduced its net loss by 12% to ₹88 crore in the June quarter. Revenue for the period rose 13%, marking a slight improvement in financial perf

  Reported by inc42.com

• Navi’s FY26 net loss triples to ₹466 Cr ahead of planned IPO

  Fintech startup Navi reported a net loss of ₹465.99 crore for fiscal year 2026, a 268.7% increase from ₹126.4 crore the prior year. The company, which has filed for an initial public offering, saw its

  Reported by inc42.com

• European founders in Tokyo secure $1.2M for modular humanoid robots

  A Tokyo-based startup led by two Europeans has raised $1.2 million in pre-seed funding. O-ID is developing modular humanoid robots aimed at industrial manufacturing and logistics, positioning itself a

  Reported by tech.eu

• Insurance commission cuts trigger sector-wide stock selloff

  Insurance distributors rely on policy commissions as their primary revenue. Recent adjustments to these rates have prompted sharp declines in sector stocks, as earnings models face immediate pressure.

  Reported by inc42.com

• Cal AI founder shares viral growth tactics at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026

  At TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, Cal AI’s Zach Yadegari discussed strategies for generating and leveraging viral growth. The session took place on the Builders Stage, with early-bird ticket discounts avail

  Reported by techcrunch.com

• Ando raises $20M for AI-human team messaging app to rival Slack

  A new team messaging platform, Ando, has secured $20 million in early funding from Accel, Index Ventures, and Emergence. The app is designed to integrate human and AI agent collaboration, positioning

  Reported by techcrunch.com

• Sifted expands company coverage for European startups

  Sifted, a European startup-focused publication, has broadened its company coverage. The outlet now includes more startups in its reporting, aiming to provide a wider lens on the region’s emerging busi

  Reported by sifted.eu

• AI leaders from Waabi, Shield AI, GM to speak at TC Disrupt 2026

  TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 will feature executives from Waabi, Shield AI, and General Motors discussing AI development in high-stakes environments. The session is part of the Real World AI Stage. Early-b

  Reported by techcrunch.com

• Connect Ventures secures $55M first close for $80M deeptech fund

  London-based Connect Ventures has closed $55 million of its planned $80 million fifth fund. The capital will target early-stage European startups with technical founders, backed by British Business Ba

  Reported by sifted.eu, tech.eu

• Toronto’s Elevate rebrands as Nrth Festival, shifts focus to human agency in tech

  After nine years, Toronto’s Elevate tech festival has rebranded as Nrth Festival. The opening night emphasized human control in an AI-driven world, featuring discussions with tech leaders and a keynot

  Reported by betakit.com, betakit.com

• UK AI drug discovery startup raises $140m with Nvidia, Anthropic

  Basecamp Research, a London-based life sciences firm using AI to accelerate drug development, has secured $140m in funding. The round includes participation from Nvidia and first-time investor Anthrop

  Reported by sifted.eu, tech.eu

• Island raises $400M at $6.4B valuation amid AI security concerns

  Enterprise browser startup Island has secured $400 million in funding, lifting its valuation to $6.4 billion. The round reflects rising demand for security tools as AI agents increasingly access corpo

  Reported by msn.com, news.crunchbase.com

• AI security startup Kontext secures $4M to monitor agent actions

  A Berlin-based company has developed software that intercepts and governs every request AI agents make within corporate systems. Kontext’s platform, designed to enforce security policies at runtime, j

  Reported by siliconangle.com, tech.eu

• TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 early-bird pricing ends Sept 25

  TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 offers passes at a discount until September 25, with savings of up to $200. Attendees can also bring a second guest at half price. The event expects over 10,000 participants an

  Reported by techcrunch.com, techcrunch.com

• IRDAI commission cap sends insurance tech stocks tumbling

  Shares of PB Fintech dropped nearly 36% after India’s insurance regulator proposed capping commissions. Turtlemint fell 20%, while traditional insurers like HDFC Life and Max Financial also declined.

  Reported by inc42.com, yourstory.com

• Kazakhstan fintechs pivot to infrastructure as banks dominate

  Kazakhstan’s fintech startups are shifting focus from consumer-facing products to infrastructure plays like Open Banking and BaaS. Large banking ecosystems now lead the market, reshaping competition i

  Reported by finchannel.com

• EU policy spurs ultrafast laser startups for chipmaking

  European startups are targeting ultrafast lasers, a key part of advanced semiconductor production. The European Commission’s mid-2026 proposal aims to strengthen the region’s tech independence, creati

  Reported by aol.com

• India tech funding consolidates around larger deals in 9M 2026

  Investors in India’s tech sector directed $10.3 billion into startups during the first nine months of 2026, a slight increase from the same period last year. The capital is flowing toward fewer, more

  Reported by fortuneindia.com

• UC Investments makes first direct European bet with Tekever's $580M round

  Portuguese aerospace and defense tech firm Tekever secured $580 million in a Series D round valuing the company at $6.4 billion. The investment was led by UC Investments, the University of California’

  Reported by finance.yahoo.com

• Axya secures $17M to expand procurement platform beyond Canada

  Montreal-based Axya has closed a $17-million Series A round to scale its manufacturing procurement software. The company will use the funds to grow its team by 15 over the next two years and strengthe

  Reported by betakit.com

• Chinese humanoid robotics firm UniX AI expands ahead of IPO

  UniX AI, a Chinese startup focused on humanoid robots, is scaling sales into new markets, including Singapore and India. The company is also preparing for an initial public offering, signaling confide

  Reported by cryptobriefing.com

• Three Indian startups advance toward public listings

  AceVector, parent company of Snapdeal, is preparing for a stock market debut next month. Spinny has submitted its draft red herring prospectus, while Furlenco is also targeting an initial public offer

  Reported by inc42.com

• AI seed rounds hit $40M as entry price climbs

  Two AI startups secured roughly $40 million each in seed funding this week, setting a new benchmark for early-stage raises in the sector. The deals signal how capital requirements for AI ventures have

  Reported by msn.com

• Rune secures $40M for off-grid AI data centers at solar sites

  Rune has raised a Series A to deploy modular RELIC systems within solar farms, using stranded midday power without grid connections. The startup’s approach targets on-site, off-grid data centers co-lo

  Reported by pv-magazine-usa.com

• Gaming funding surpasses 2025 total as AI startups drive deals

  Gaming startups have raised $2 billion this year, exceeding 2025’s full-year funding. The increase is tied to larger rounds for companies combining AI and gaming. Separately, eleven early-stage silico

  Reported by news.crunchbase.com, eetimes.com, alleywatch.com

• Island secures $400M at $6.4B valuation amid AI cybersecurity demand

  Cybersecurity startup Island raised $400 million in a Series F round, pushing its valuation to $6.4 billion. Evolution Equity Partners led the funding, with existing backers like Prysm Capital partici

  Reported by msn.com, msn.com, reuters.com

• Ex-OYO exec's AI data center startup Nava eyes $200M at $750M valuation

  Nava, an AI-focused data center startup founded by a former OYO executive, is in discussions to raise $200 million from Greenoaks. The round would value the company at approximately $750 million, posi

  Reported by moneycontrol.com

• Saudi AI accelerator GAIA commits $160M to 120 startups

  A Saudi generative AI accelerator, GAIA, has allocated $160 million to support 120 startups. The program is backed by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), the National Technol

  Reported by spa.gov.sa

• European accelerators target women founders with funding, networks

  A roundup highlights European startup accelerators focused on women entrepreneurs. These programs provide access to capital, mentorship, and investor connections. The aim is to address gaps in funding

  Reported by hackernoon.com

• Biotechs expand teams after securing series B funding

  Three biotechnology firms that closed series B rounds this year are now hiring. One, with partnerships including Eli Lilly, Johnson & Johnson, and Novartis, raised over $2 billion. The moves reflect p

  Reported by biospace.com

• Euclyd raises $231M with Samsung backing for AI chip tech

  Dutch AI chip startup Euclyd has secured $231 million in funding, with Samsung among its backers. The company aims to develop advanced hardware for AI applications, positioning itself in a competitive

  Reported by rswebsols.com

• Demoverse raises $600K for AI-driven consumer co-creation

  Demoverse, an AI platform that lets brands involve consumers in product development, has secured $600K in pre-seed funding. The round was led by Lumikai, a VC firm focused on interactive media and gam

  Reported by news.webindia123.com, cxotoday.com

• Detroit robotics startup wins $425K in Michigan pitch competition

  Common Vector Robotics, a Detroit-based maker of rugged ground robots, secured $425,000 after winning the defense and aerospace semifinal of Michigan University’s PitchMI startup competition. The fund

  Reported by roboticsandautomationnews.com

• Basecamp Research secures $140M for AI-driven drug discovery

  London-based Basecamp Research has closed a $140 million funding round. The AI drug discovery startup attracted backing from a group of investors, though no lead was named. The capital will support it

  Reported by siliconangle.com

• Ex-Zillow exec sells AI startup, joins Mainstay as CSO

  Carey Armstrong, a former Zillow executive, has sold her AI startup after operating in stealth for over a year. She will now serve as Chief Science Officer at Mainstay, a company in the same sector.

  Reported by finance.yahoo.com

• Maritime nuclear startup secures $50M seed for floating reactors

  Bluecore Energy, a company building compact nuclear systems for ships, has closed a $50 million seed round. The funds will speed up development and testing of its water-cooled, floating nuclear energy

  Reported by ajot.com

• Beagle Labs secures pre-seed for AI-driven insurance risk platform

  A New York-based startup has closed pre-seed funding to refine its AI tool for property and liability inspections. The platform targets insurers, managing general agents, and program administrators, a

  Reported by finance.yahoo.com

• Ekai secures $1.7M to bridge enterprise AI's context gaps

  A platform called Ekai, which converts analytical data and expertise into AI-readable business context, has closed a $1.7 million pre-seed round. Misneach led the investment, with C10 Labs also partic

  Reported by markets.businessinsider.com

• Climate tech funding jumps 55% in first half, data centers lead

  Global venture investment in climate tech reached $26 billion in the first six months of the year, up over half from the same period last year. The increase was tracked by Currence.ai, with data cente

  Reported by finance.yahoo.com

• ByteAsk secures $1M for AI coding agents in high-stakes industries

  ByteAsk, an AI coding startup, has raised $1 million to develop tools for C and C++ developers. Its focus is on sectors like defense, aerospace, and high-frequency trading, where precision and reliabi

  Reported by msn.com

• Mistral AI acquires Paris adtech startup Pimento in 2026 spree

  Mistral AI has acquired Pimento, a Paris-based startup specializing in generative AI for ad creative. This marks the company’s third acquisition this year, signaling an aggressive expansion strategy b

  Reported by thenextweb.com

• Modal Labs in talks for $15B valuation funding round

  AI infrastructure startup Modal Labs is negotiating a new funding round that could value the company at around $15 billion. The discussions follow a $355 million raise in May, when its valuation stood

  Reported by msn.com

• Chinese launch startup Space Epoch closes $343M Series B round

  Space Epoch, a Chinese commercial launch company, has secured over 2.3 billion yuan ($343 million) in Series B funding across the past six months. The latest tranche, finalized September 23, 2026, adv

  Reported by satnews.com

• Series A rounds of $100M+ hit multi-year high in 2024

  Crunchbase data shows global startups have closed at least 114 Series A rounds of $100 million or more this year. That figure already surpasses recent annual totals and could exceed the previous recor

  Reported by news.crunchbase.com

• Bootstrapped Be Incremental joins ScaleUp House cohort

  Be Incremental, a B2B SaaS startup focused on ad optimization, has been selected for ScaleUp House’s first cohort. The company has grown without external funding and is among 23 Israeli scale-ups in t

  Reported by calcalistech.com

• Japanese firm raises billions to mass-produce AI startups

  A company blending external AI tools with in-house development has secured significant funding. It aims to bridge the gap between adopting third-party SaaS and building proprietary AI systems, targeti

  Reported by note.com

• Basecamp Research secures $140M to train AI on 1M+ species data

  Basecamp Research, a gene therapy firm using AI to design treatments, closed a $140 million Series C. The funding will expand its EDEN biological AI models, trained on genetic data from over a million

  Reported by msn.com

• Seattle startup Hubble Network hits $1.6B valuation with $200M raise

  Hubble Network, a Seattle-based company building a satellite network for Bluetooth devices, has secured $200 million in funding, pushing its valuation to $1.6 billion. The capital will support its goa

  Reported by msn.com

• Unilever Ventures backs Arey in Series A funding round

  Arey has secured Series A financing with Unilever Ventures taking the lead. The capital will support expansion of its product pipeline, though details on the amount raised or specific development plan

  Reported by msn.com

• Upwind acquires Aegis, launches AI security research lab

  Cloud security firm Upwind has acquired Israeli AI security startup Aegis and established a new cyber research lab. The team, led by former Unit 8200 members Omri Limor and Saar Ankonina, will focus o

  Reported by ynetnews.com

• AI agents track business metrics 24/7 in new $3M seed startup

  A startup co-founded by ex-Amazon and Opendoor executives has built AI agents that monitor key business metrics in real time. The system flags and investigates anomalies automatically. Tractor Supply

  Reported by msn.com