Startups, Mergers, Acquisitions and Funding Round-up this week

From gaming milestones and drone tech funding to fintech expansions and acquisitions, here is this week's startup roundup, highlighting key developments from India’s dynamic entrepreneurial landscape. They reflect how innovation, investment, and regulation are shaping the next wave of growth across sectors.

Ember Raises $3.2 Million to Power India’s Clean-Kitchen Revolution

Cookware brand Ember has secured $3.2 million in funding to lead India’s clean-kitchen movement. The round attracted notable investor and celebrity chef Saransh Goila, who joins as a partner to drive innovation and brand growth. Ember’s focus is on sustainable, non-toxic kitchenware aimed at improving health and environmental outcomes. With this investment, Ember plans to scale operations, invest in product development, and strengthen its presence in tier-1 and tier-2 cities.

WeHouse Raises Rs. 25 Crore in Series A Funding

WeHouse, a home rental and management platform, has raised Rs. 25 crore in its Series A funding round. The fresh capital will be used to enhance its tech infrastructure, expand into new cities, and improve customer experience. WeHouse’s platform offers hassle-free rental solutions for property owners and tenants, focusing on flexible agreements and seamless operations. The round signals growing investor confidence in proptech startups catering to urban housing challenges.

Inamo Raises $3 Million to Expand Dark Store Network

Q-commerce enablement startup Inamo has raised $3 million to scale its dark store network across urban markets. The investment will support infrastructure development, logistics optimisation, and technology upgrades to improve delivery speed and service reliability. As demand for hyperlocal, quick-commerce services surges, Inamo’s dark stores will enhance last-mile fulfilment for businesses and consumers alike. The funding round reflects investor confidence in last-mile innovations catering to evolving e-commerce ecosystems.

EndureAir Raises Rs. 25 Crore to Expand Drone Technology Solutions

Dronetech startup EndureAir has secured Rs. 25 crore in funding from IAN Alpha Fund to accelerate product development and expand operations. EndureAir focuses on advanced drone systems for logistics, surveillance, and agricultural applications. The fresh capital will enable it to scale manufacturing, enhance AI-driven flight algorithms, and broaden market outreach. The investment reflects the growing demand for drone solutions across industries, where automation and efficiency are driving technological adoption.

Urban Company Raises Rs. 854 Crore from Anchor Investors Ahead of IPO

Urban Company, the home services platform, has raised Rs. 854 crore from anchor investors ahead of its IPO. The funds will be used to strengthen operations, expand service offerings, and scale marketing efforts. As one of India’s most prominent tech-driven service providers, Urban Company aims to capitalise on rising demand for home maintenance, repairs, and personal care services. The pre-IPO round signals strong investor interest in urban services and platform-driven business models.

Mergers and Acquisitions:

1. Tata Motors is seeking to raise a $4.5 billion loan to finance its acquisition of Iveco, a leading European commercial vehicle manufacturer. 
2. Content platform Minute Media has acquired VideoVerse, a video editing software startup, to enhance its digital storytelling capabilities.
3. Marico has announced plans to acquire the remaining 46% stake in HW Wellness Solutions for Rs. 138 crore, aiming to fully integrate the wellness brand into its portfolio. 
   

Other News:

1. SuperGaming’s flagship title, MaskGun, has crossed an impressive 100 million downloads worldwide. 
2. Fintech giant PhonePe has launched an Rs. 800 crore ESOP buyback programme as it prepares for an upcoming IPO. 
3. ShellKode, a technology enablement startup, has signed a multi-year strategic collaboration agreement with Amazon Web Services (AWS). 
4. Fintech platform BillCut has appointed Anupam Bhat as its new Chief Financial Officer.
5. Real-money gaming platform Zupee has laid off 170 employees following regulatory crackdowns on the industry.