India’s startup ecosystem has witnessed a phenomenal transformation in recent years. Now home to the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, with over 1.5 lakh registered startups, India is projected to sustain an annual growth rate of 12-15%. This remarkable progress is fueled by visionary leaders across various sectors, each striving to create impactful solutions that challenge conventional norms. These trailblazers are scripting a new chapter in India’s entrepreneurial journey, revolutionizing industries from technology to healthcare, sustainability to e-commerce. Their ventures are not just thriving businesses but also sources of inspiration for a generation aspiring to dream big and aim higher.

Anant Goel – Founder, Handpickd

A serial entrepreneur, Anant Goel has revolutionized the way Indians access high-quality fruits and vegetables. He previously founded Milkbasket in 2015, pioneering India’s first online grocery network catering to everyday household needs. After Reliance acquired Milkbasket for $40M, Anant launched Handpickd, India’s first AI-powered fresh produce “matchmaking” platform. Headquartered in Gurugram, Handpickd operates on a zero-inventory model, sourcing directly from farmers to ensure premium quality while reducing waste. His innovative approach to digital connectivity has transformed fresh produce procurement, benefiting both consumers and store owners alike.

Deepinder Goyal – Founder, MD & CEO, Zomato

Deepinder Goyal, with a background in mathematics and computing from IIT Delhi, has been instrumental in Zomato’s growth into a $2.2 billion enterprise since its inception in 2008. Under his leadership, Zomato has reshaped the food industry through technological innovation, community engagement, and support for food entrepreneurs. Its user-friendly platform enables seamless restaurant discovery, online ordering, and delivery tracking, making it a household name in India’s digital economy. His vision for leveraging mobile technology has redefined the food delivery and restaurant discovery landscape.

Abinav Varma Kalidindi – Founder, Ikonz Studios

Abinav Varma Kalidindi launched Ikonz Studios in 2021 with a mission to create hyper-realistic AI avatars and holographic solutions. As India’s first AI-driven digital experience company, Ikonz has collaborated with global personalities and brands, including the AI-powered digital avatar of Amitabh Bachchan, developed in partnership with IDFC FIRST Bank. With a background in technology and finance, Abinav previously built and exited a consumer tech company in the U.S. before shifting focus to AI-powered digital assistants in banking, healthcare, education, and entertainment. Ikonz is backed by prominent investors, including Village Global, whose LPs include Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, and Jeff Bezos.

Deepak Sahni – Founder, Healthians

Deepak Sahni’s journey from a computer assembler to the founder of one of India’s largest at-home diagnostic chains is a testament to perseverance and vision. In 2015, he established Healthians to make preventive healthcare more accessible and affordable. Pioneering AI-driven solutions, Healthians introduced innovations like Smart Reports and video analysis of health results, empowering individuals with better health insights. Ranked No. 1 in the Times Health Survey, Healthians operates across 250+ cities, supported by 22+ certified labs and a fleet of trained phlebotomists. In FY 2024, the company recorded an 8% year-on-year growth, reinforcing its commitment to healthcare accessibility and user-friendly diagnostics.

Prachi Dharani – Co-founder & CEO, PayGlocal

With over two decades of experience in the payments industry, Prachi Dharani has positioned PayGlocal as a leader in cross-border transactions. Before co-founding PayGlocal, she held key leadership roles at Visa, First Data, and ICICI Bank. Her company provides secure and seamless international payment solutions, supporting over 1,300 merchants across 181 countries and processing transactions worth more than INR 22 billion. PayGlocal’s commitment to security has prevented over INR 1 billion in fraud attempts while improving Payment Success Rates by up to 20%, cementing its status as an innovator in global financial technology.

Vineeta Singh – Co-founder & CEO, SUGAR Cosmetics

Vineeta Singh, an IIT Madras and IIM Ahmedabad alumnus, has transformed SUGAR Cosmetics into a $500 million beauty powerhouse. Since its launch in 2015, SUGAR has captivated young consumers with innovative product offerings and data-driven marketing strategies. The brand’s digital-first approach, powered by social media and influencer collaborations, has set new benchmarks in the beauty industry. By prioritizing inclusivity and trendsetting formulations, Vineeta continues to drive SUGAR Cosmetics’ growth in an intensely competitive market.

Kabir Jeet Singh – Founder, Burger Singh

Kabir Jeet Singh turned a simple idea into a fast-growing QSR brand, challenging the dominance of multinational giants in India’s burger market. His entrepreneurial journey began in the UK, where he experimented with Indian spices in burger recipes. This led to the launch of Burger Singh in 2014, blending global fast food with local flavors. By tailoring its offerings to diverse regional palates, Burger Singh has expanded beyond metro cities, boasting 175+ outlets across 75+ locations. His unique approach to customization has helped the brand thrive in an otherwise challenging segment.

Tarun Joshi – Founder, IGP (International Gifts Platform)

Aerospace engineer turned private equity investor, Tarun Joshi ventured into e-commerce to solve a fundamental challenge: personalized and efficient online gifting. Under his leadership, IGP has become one of the world’s largest direct-to-consumer gifting platforms, serving 1,000+ cities in India and 150+ countries globally. With same-day delivery in 400+ locations and plans to open 140 dark stores and 22 retail stores, IGP continues to expand its offline presence while redefining the personalized gifting experience.

These visionaries exemplify the power of innovation and resilience, driving India’s entrepreneurial wave forward. By leveraging technology, sustainability, and consumer-centric solutions, they are not only shaping industries but also inspiring a new era of business leadership.