Venture Debt Gains Ground in India's Startup Ecosystem
ECONOMY & POLICY

Venture Debt Gains Ground in India's Startup Ecosystem

India's venture debt market is witnessing steady growth, emerging as a key funding avenue for startups in capital-intensive sectors such as fintech and electric vehicles (EVs), according to a report released by global investment institution Lighthouse Canton.

Founders are increasingly leveraging venture debt to bridge funding gaps without diluting equity, a shift driven by limited equity funding availability and the need to preserve ownership while securing growth capital.

The report highlighted that 40% of founders prefer venture debt for its less dilutive nature, with repayment flexibility also being a significant factor for 30% of respondents.

Driving Innovation and Growth "India's startup ecosystem holds immense potential, and the growth of venture debt funding is pivotal in driving its development," said Sanket Sinha, Managing Director at Lighthouse Canton. Venture debt is proving essential in enabling startups to innovate, manage cash flows, and fuel expansion across India's dynamic business landscape.

Sectoral Impact The fintech sector, the world's third-largest, has been a significant driver of venture debt adoption. Innovations like UPI have propelled the industry forward, with venture debt helping startups manage cash flows and support onward lending.

Similarly, the EV sector relies heavily on venture debt, with 67% of startups in the space using it for more than half of their debt funding. Traditional lenders often perceive the EV industry as high-risk, making venture debt a vital alternative to sustain growth.

As India’s startup ecosystem evolves, venture debt continues to solidify its role as a strategic funding tool for emerging businesses navigating rapid growth and capital-intensive challenges.

India's venture debt market is witnessing steady growth, emerging as a key funding avenue for startups in capital-intensive sectors such as fintech and electric vehicles (EVs), according to a report released by global investment institution Lighthouse Canton. Founders are increasingly leveraging venture debt to bridge funding gaps without diluting equity, a shift driven by limited equity funding availability and the need to preserve ownership while securing growth capital. The report highlighted that 40% of founders prefer venture debt for its less dilutive nature, with repayment flexibility also being a significant factor for 30% of respondents. Driving Innovation and Growth India's startup ecosystem holds immense potential, and the growth of venture debt funding is pivotal in driving its development, said Sanket Sinha, Managing Director at Lighthouse Canton. Venture debt is proving essential in enabling startups to innovate, manage cash flows, and fuel expansion across India's dynamic business landscape. Sectoral Impact The fintech sector, the world's third-largest, has been a significant driver of venture debt adoption. Innovations like UPI have propelled the industry forward, with venture debt helping startups manage cash flows and support onward lending. Similarly, the EV sector relies heavily on venture debt, with 67% of startups in the space using it for more than half of their debt funding. Traditional lenders often perceive the EV industry as high-risk, making venture debt a vital alternative to sustain growth. As India’s startup ecosystem evolves, venture debt continues to solidify its role as a strategic funding tool for emerging businesses navigating rapid growth and capital-intensive challenges.

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

Greaves Electric Mobility Files for IPO

Electric-vehicle manufacturer Greaves Electric Mobility has announced plans to raise Rs 10 billion through an initial public offering (IPO), as stated in its draft papers filed. The company, recognised for its 'Ampere' brand of electric scooters, also produces three-wheelers under a separate brand. Greaves Electric’s major shareholders, Greaves Cotton—a publicly listed entity—and investment firm Abdul Latif Jameel Green Mobility Solutions, will collectively sell approximately 189.4 million shares through the IPO. This move positions Greaves Electric alongside larger competitor Ather En..

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

IREDA Approves Rs 30 Billion for Odisha's Renewable Energy Projects

Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) has approved funding exceeding Rs 30 billion for renewable energy projects in Odisha as the state strives to achieve its goal of 10 GW capacity by 2030. Pradip Kumar Das, Chairman and Managing Director of IREDA, shared this update during the Odisha Solar Investor Conclave organised by GRIDCO. He emphasised that accessible financing is crucial to fostering the adoption of renewable energy. Das outlined IREDA's significant contributions to funding renewable energy projects in Odisha, spanning sectors such as solar, hydro, ethanol, and renewable..

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

Oil Prices Rise Amid Light Pre-Christmas Trading

Oil prices edged higher during light trading ahead of the Christmas Day holiday. The increase was attributed to positive US economic data and growing oil demand in India, the third-largest importer of oil globally. Brent crude futures rose by 33 cents, or 0.45 per cent, to reach $72.95 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures gained 29 cents, or 0.42 per cent, settling at $69.53 per barrel as of 0114 GMT. Economic indicators in the United States highlighted a surge in new orders for key manufactured capital goods in November, driven by robust demand for machinery. Add..

Hi There!

"Now get regular updates from CW Magazine on WhatsApp!

Join the CW WhatsApp channel for the latest news, industry events, expert insights, and project updates from the construction and infrastructure industry.

Click the link below to join"

+91 81086 03000