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

This week’s startup activity in India reflects a strong appetite for innovation across sectors. From AI-powered edtech and fashion tech to gaming and toy marketplaces, both global and local investors are doubling down on the country’s digital-first ventures.

AI-led Learning Platform Attracts Major Investment

An education tech company, Arivihan, focused on AI-driven personalised learning tools, has raised $4.17 million in early-stage funding. Key backers include Accel, GSF, and Prosus Ventures.

Gaming Startup STAN Receives Backing from Global Tech Giants

STAN, a growing social gaming platform, secured funding from Google and top Japanese game developers. The new capital will enable the brand to deepen fan engagement and scale up its operations.

Toy Retail Platform Snooplay Secures Rs. 8 Crore to Expand Reach

Snooplay, based in Noida, raised Rs. 8 crore to boost its online marketplace for thoughtful and inclusive toys. The funding will be used to enhance inventory and customer access across India.

Shark Tank-Featured Brand LittleBox Raises Rs. 17.5 Crore

LittleBox, a fast-fashion startup recognised for its rapid trend adaptation, has secured Rs. 17.5 crore in funding. The brand will use this round to grow its collections and optimise supply chains.

AI Pioneer Anthropic Set for New Round at $17 Billion Valuation

Anthropic, a major AI startup, is reportedly close to raising a new round of funding that could value the company at approximately $17 billion, signalling strong global investor interest.

Heizen Gets Early Support with $500K Pre-Seed Round

AI infrastructure venture Heizen has bagged $500,000 in pre-seed funding led by Titan Capital. The startup intends to use the funds for product prototyping and team building.

Mergers and Acquisitions

• Zaggle has taken over fintech startup Rio Money, aiming to boost its digital finance capabilities and product integration.
• Swiggy is divesting its 12% ownership in Rapido, restructuring its investment portfolio.
• Lenskart co-founder Peyush Bansal repurchased Rs. 222 crore worth of shares at a discounted rate before the company’s IPO.
• Tata Motors’ planned acquisition of Iveco will depend heavily on how effectively the companies align in operations and vision.
• Torrent Pharmaceuticals is acquiring a controlling stake in JB Chemicals, valuing the deal at Rs. 25,689 crore to expand its healthcare footprint.