Startup Boost: MeitY’s INR 2 Cr Grant & YourNest’s $1.9M for Superfone!
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MeitY Awards INR 2 Crore to Five Rising Startups at BIMTECH’s AIC Through SAMRIDH Program
In a groundbreaking move, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has just disbursed a whopping INR 2 crore in funding to five dynamic startups incubated at the Atal Incubation Centre (AIC) of Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH).
This funding initiative, part of the SAMRIDH program, underscores India’s unwavering commitment to nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship, all while aligning with the ambitious vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047.”
The standout startups—Cunomial, Credit Siddhi, Origin Connect, Transport Simple, and Vacus—join a select cohort of eight startups under AIC-BIMTECH’s program, collectively boasting an impressive valuation of INR 75 crore. Their remarkable growth prospects are set to make significant waves in the Indian economy.
Launched by MeitY, the SAMRIDH program is designed to supercharge startup growth by providing essential financial support that spurs innovation across various sectors. Dr. Prabina Rajib, Director of BIMTECH, emphasized the program’s transformative impact, asserting, “The SAMRIDH program empowers us to provide startups with tailored resources and insights, enabling them to innovate and succeed in fiercely competitive markets.”
Dr. Shalini Singh, Chairperson of the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development and Acting CEO of AIC BIMTECH, added, “At AIC BIMTECH, we offer unparalleled support for startups, from soft infrastructure and co-working spaces to priceless mentorship, extensive networking opportunities, and vital market access.”
“We’re committed to ensuring that these startups have the necessary tools and resources to scale, innovate, and excel in an ever-changing market landscape,” she emphasized.
AIC-BIMTECH has already nurtured over 400 startups and forged 200+ partnerships, creating a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. The eight startups in the SAMRIDH cohort—Cunomial, Credit Siddhi, Origin Connect, Transport Simple, Vacus, Fabrik, Detrocel, and Ecotio—are not only driving innovation but also generating jobs and revenue, making substantial contributions to India’s economic landscape.
YourNest Venture Capital Powers Up USD 1.9 Million Funding Round for Superfone
Meet Superfone, the Bengaluru-based all-in-one business phone and CRM app that’s revolutionizing communication for small and medium businesses (SMBs). With a fresh injection of USD 1.9 million (around INR 15.71 crore) from its Pre-Series A funding round, led by YourNest Venture Capital, Superfone is set to soar. This round also saw key investments from Ankur Capital, Finsight Seed Fund, and a group of enthusiastic angel investors.
Part of the YourNest-SanchiConnect Velocity Program 2024, this funding aims to accelerate promising startups that are ready to make their mark.
Previously, Superfone secured USD 1.84 million back in July 2021, and this new funding will be strategically utilized to acquire national-level telecom licenses, expand both their engineering and product teams with top talents, and ramp up customer acquisition efforts. The company has ambitious plans to position itself as a Pan-India Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), redefining the very essence of business phone numbers.
Founded in 2021 by visionaries Pradeep Dodle and Nikhil Goenka, Superfone eliminates the hassle of traditional SIM cards with an app-based solution that integrates crucial tools like CRM, lead management, WhatsApp marketing, and AI-powered agents—all crafted to tackle the communication challenges faced by over 10 million SMBs in India.
“Securing telecom licenses and this funding round are monumental steps in our mission to revolutionize how SMBs communicate and grow,” stated Pradeep Dodle, CEO. “We’re on a journey to build a generational company and are excited to partner with YourNest Venture Capital, whose expertise will undoubtedly push our vision further.”
Superfone has recently acquired a Unified License (VNO) for the Karnataka telecom circle along with a Pan-India Unified License for audio conferencing and voicemail services from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). The ambitious company also has its eyes set on global expansion, targeting high-growth markets in Southeast Asia and Latin America.
“Superfone reimagines the business phone number as a key to customer relationships and growth,” shared Nikhil Goenka, CPTO. “With this funding, we’ll enhance our enterprise-grade tools and technologies for SMBs, facilitating seamless communication and operational efficiency.”
With its innovative vision and strong investor support, Superfone is primed to lead a telecom revolution for SMBs across the nation!
