The India Mobile Congress (IMC), one of Asia’s largest digital technology and telecommunications events, is set to make history this October by hosting the first-ever India edition of the Startup World Cup. Organized in collaboration with Pegasus Tech Ventures, this groundbreaking initiative is expected to bring the best of India’s startup ecosystem to a global stage, offering entrepreneurs a platform to showcase innovations, secure investments, and compete with world-class startups.
A Global Phenomenon Comes to India
The Startup World Cup, hosted annually by Pegasus Tech Ventures, is widely respected as one of the largest entrepreneurship competitions in the world. Each year, regional competitions are held across more than 50 countries, culminating in a global finale in the United States, where one winning startup earns a multi-million-dollar investment prize.
India’s debut as a host nation represents a significant milestone both for IMC and the country’s ever-growing startup ecosystem. With India now recognized as the third-largest startup hub globally—boasting more than 110 unicorns and thousands of high-growth firms—this is seen as a timely and transformative opportunity.
By hosting this competition, India will not only strengthen its global reputation as an innovation powerhouse but also provide its homegrown talent with direct access to international mentors, investors, and corporate leaders.
What to Expect at the Event
The Startup World Cup India edition will take place in October alongside the India Mobile Congress 2025, a three-day event themed around the future of AI, 5G, deep tech, and digital transformation. Key highlights of the competition will include:
- Startup Pitches: Selected early-stage and growth-stage companies from across India will present their pitches live to a distinguished panel of judges comprising venture capitalists, corporate executives, and industry experts.
- Mentorship Sessions: Participants will benefit from exclusive one-on-one mentoring and workshops aimed at enhancing fundraising strategies, business scaling, and global expansion.
- Investor Networking: The event will bring together representatives from venture capital firms, angel networks, and multinational corporations actively seeking innovative ideas to invest in.
- International Visibility: The winning startup from India will earn the chance to represent the country at the global finale of the Startup World Cup in Silicon Valley, competing for a grand prize of up to USD 1 million in funding.
Strengthening India’s Startup Ecosystem
The introduction of the Startup World Cup in India reflects the governments and private sector’s collective push to empower entrepreneurs. Backed by initiatives like Startup India and Digital India, the country has made rapid progress in building a climate that supports innovation-driven enterprises.
According to recent industry reports, India attracted over USD 20 billion in startup funding in 2024, with sectors such as fintech, AI, health tech, and clean energy witnessing record growth. By involving these players in a globally recognized competition, IMC aims to channel more international capital and partnerships into India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Telecom, technology, and digital companies, including both domestic giants and multinational firms, are set to participate. Their involvement will ensure that startups have access not just to funds but also to cutting-edge technology and potential strategic alliances.
Key Leaders Speak
Announcing the launch, IMC organizers highlighted how the competition aligns with India’s broader goals of becoming a global hub for digital innovation. “Bringing the Startup World Cup to India is about opening new doors for our entrepreneurs,” said an IMC spokesperson. “This will be a bridge between Indian startups and global investors at a time when deep technology, AI, and next-gen connectivity are redefining industries.”
Representatives from Pegasus Tech Ventures also expressed excitement about expanding the competition into South Asia. “India is home to extraordinary startup talent and innovation,” said a Pegasus partner. “Through this platform, we aim to accelerate their journey and connect them with worldwide opportunities.”
Opportunities Beyond the Pitch
While the competition spotlights startups, its impact will extend much further. The India Mobile Congress is known to attract tens of thousands of participants each year, including policymakers, CEOs, innovators, and academics. The Startup World Cup will benefit from this diverse audience, exposing entrepreneurs to decision-makers and thought leaders who can influence the future of their businesses.
Moreover, the competition will be streamed across various digital platforms, allowing not only participants but also audiences across India’s startup community to engage, learn, and get inspired.
Why This Matters
For India, hosting the Startup World Cup is more than just a one-off event; it signals the country’s growing influence in the global innovation space. With its vast talent pool, supportive policy environment, and appetite for disruptive solutions, India is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the businesses of the future.
For entrepreneurs, the competition offers unparalleled exposure, mentorship, and funding prospects. For investors, it represents a chance to discover promising ventures early and foster long-term collaborations. And for the broader tech ecosystem, it showcases India’s readiness to be at the forefront of the digital economy.
Event Details
- Event: Startup World Cup – India Edition
- Hosted by: India Mobile Congress in partnership with Pegasus Tech Ventures
- Date: October 2025
- Venue: Pragati Maidan, New Delhi
- Theme: AI, 5G, Deep Tech, and Digital Transformation
Interested startups can submit applications through the official IMC portal. Shortlisted candidates will be announced later this month.
