Quick Summary
Definition & Importance: A Unicorn Company in India is a privately held startup valued at over $1 billion, playing a vital role in shaping the country’s startup ecosystem.
Top Unicorns: Companies like BYJU’S, OYO, and Razorpay are among India’s leading unicorns, driving innovation across sectors like edtech, fintech, and hospitality.
Growth Insights: India is now one of the world’s fastest-growing hubs for unicorn startups, with government support and investor interest fueling this remarkable rise.
India is home to over 100 Unicorn Companies in India – startups valued at more than $1 billion! From food delivery apps like Swiggy to online education platforms like Byju’s, these companies are changing how Indians live, work, and shop. In this article, we’ll explore:
Let’s dive in!
A Unicorn Company in India is a startup valued at $1 billion or more (₹8,300 crores) without being listed on the stock market. The term “unicorn” was first used in 2013 to describe rare startups that grow rapidly and achieve massive success.
Unicorn companies play a vital role in shaping the startup ecosystem and the economy. They not only provide employment but also foster innovation in various sectors. Here’s why they matter:
These factors highlight the crucial role unicorn companies, including those in India, play in driving economic progress and fostering a dynamic business environment.
India has witnessed a rapid rise in unicorn companies across sectors like technology, fintech, e-commerce, and health tech.
Here’s a list of 100+ Top Unicorn Company in India list (valued at over $1 billion) as of 2025. Note that valuations are approximate and may change over time:
Sr. No. | Company Name | Industry | Valuation (USD Billion) | Founding Year |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Flipkart | E-commerce | ~$37 | 2007 |
2 | BYJU’S | EdTech | ~$22 | 2011 |
3 | Nykaa | Beauty & E-commerce | ~$13 | 2012 |
4 | Swiggy | Food Delivery | ~$10.7 | 2014 |
5 | Paytm | FinTech | ~$16 | 2010 |
6 | Ola Cabs | Mobility | ~$7.3 | 2010 |
7 | OYO Rooms | Hospitality | ~$9.6 | 2013 |
8 | Zomato | Food Delivery | ~$8.2 | 2008 |
9 | Dream11 | Gaming | ~$8 | 2008 |
10 | PhonePe | FinTech | ~$12 | 2015 |
11 | Razorpay | FinTech | ~$7.5 | 2014 |
12 | Cred | FinTech | ~$6.4 | 2018 |
13 | Unacademy | EdTech | ~$3.4 | 2015 |
14 | Meesho | Social Commerce | ~$4.9 | 2015 |
15 | Policybazaar | InsurTech | ~$3.5 | 2008 |
16 | PharmEasy | HealthTech | ~$5.6 | 2015 |
17 | Lenskart | Eyewear Retail | ~$4.5 | 2010 |
18 | BharatPe | FinTech | ~$2.8 | 2018 |
19 | upGrad | EdTech | ~$2.2 | 2015 |
20 | Chargebee | SaaS | ~$3.5 | 2011 |
21 | BrowserStack | SaaS | ~$4 | 2011 |
22 | ShareChat | Social Media | ~$5 | 2015 |
23 | Freshworks | SaaS | ~$13 | 2010 |
24 | Eruditus | EdTech | ~$3.2 | 2010 |
25 | Delhivery | Logistics | ~$5 | 2011 |
26 | OfBusiness | B2B E-commerce | ~$5 | 2015 |
27 | Rebel Foods | Cloud Kitchens | ~$1.4 | 2011 |
28 | Cars24 | Auto Tech | ~$3.3 | 2015 |
29 | Acko | InsurTech | ~$1.1 | 2016 |
30 | GlobalBees | E-commerce (Acquisition) | ~$1.1 | 2021 |
31 | MobiKwik | FinTech | ~$1 | 2009 |
32 | CoinSwitch Kuber | Crypto | ~$1.9 | 2017 |
33 | CoinDCX | Crypto | ~$2.1 | 2018 |
34 | Livspace | Home Interiors | ~$1.2 | 2015 |
35 | Vedantu | EdTech | ~$1 | 2011 |
36 | Urban Company | Home Services | ~$2.1 | 2014 |
37 | Mamaearth | D2C (Personal Care) | ~$1.2 | 2016 |
38 | ElasticRun | B2B Logistics | ~$1.5 | 2016 |
39 | Xpressbees | Logistics | ~$1.2 | 2015 |
40 | LEAD School | EdTech | ~$1.1 | 2012 |
41 | Uniphore | AI/Customer Service | ~$2.5 | 2008 |
42 | Fractal | Analytics AI/Data Analytics | ~$1.5 | 2000 |
43 | Postman | SaaS | ~$5.6 | 2014 |
44 | Mindtickle | SaaS | ~$1.2 | 2011 |
45 | Innovaccer | HealthTech | ~$3.2 | 2014 |
46 | Dailyhunt | News Aggregator | ~$5 | 2009 |
47 | Zetwerk | Manufacturing Tech | ~$2.7 | 2018 |
48 | Moglix | B2B E-commerce | ~$2.6 | 2015 |
49 | Infra.Market | Construction Tech | ~$4.5 | 2016 |
50 | Apna | Jobs Platform | ~$1.1 | 2019 |
51 | BlackBuck | Logistics | ~$1 | 2015 |
52 | Droom | Auto Tech | ~$1.2 | 2014 |
53 | Pristyn Care | HealthTech | ~$1.4 | 2018 |
54 | CureFit | Health & Fitness | ~$1.5 | 2016 |
55 | Spinny | Auto Tech | ~$1.8 | 2015 |
56 | InMobi | AdTech | ~$12 | 2007 |
57 | Ola Electric | EV Manufacturing | ~$5 | 2017 |
58 | Upstox | FinTech | ~$3.4 | 2009 |
59 | Zepto | Quick Commerce | ~$1.4 | 2021 |
60 | Shiprocket | Logistics | ~$1.2 | 2017 |
61 | Lendingkart | FinTech | ~$1.5 | 2014 |
62 | MyGlamm | D2C (Beauty) | ~$1.2 | 2015 |
63 | DealShare | Social Commerce | ~$1.7 | 2018 |
64 | 5ire | Blockchain | ~$1.5 | 2021 |
65 | Open | FinTech | ~$1 | 2017 |
66 | PhysicsWallah | EdTech | ~$1.1 | 2016 |
67 | Purplle | Beauty E-commerce | ~$1.1 | 2012 |
68 | Yubi (CredAvenue) | FinTech | ~$1.3 | 2020 |
69 | OneCard | FinTech | ~$1.3 | 2019 |
70 | Slice | FinTech | ~$1.5 | 2016 |
71 | Livspace | Home Interiors | ~$1.2 | 2015 |
72 | Tata 1mg | HealthTech | ~$1.4 | 2015 |
73 | Mensa Brands | E-commerce (Acquisition) | ~$1 | 2021 |
74 | Good Glamm Group | D2C (Beauty) | ~$1.2 | 2021 |
75 | NoBroker | Proptech | ~$1 | 2014 |
76 | Games24x7 | Gaming | ~$2.5 | 2006 |
77 | Ather Energy | EV Manufacturing | ~$1.1 | 2013 |
78 | Oxyzo | FinTech | ~$1 | 2022 |
79 | Amagi | Media Tech | ~$1 | 2008 |
80 | Darwinbox | HR Tech | ~$1 | 2015 |
81 | Hasura | SaaS | ~$1 | 2017 |
82 | LeadSquared | SaaS | ~$1 | 2011 |
83 | Molbio Diagnostics | HealthTech | ~$1.6 | 2000 |
84 | Servify | SaaS | ~$1 | 2015 |
85 | Yulu | (EV) Mobility | ~$1 | 2017 |
86 | BigBasket | Grocery Delivery | ~$1.2 | 2011 |
87 | FirstCry | Baby Care E-commerce | ~$4 | 2010 |
88 | Locus | Logistics Tech | ~$1 | 2015 |
89 | Pratilipi | Content Platform | ~$1 | 2015 |
90 | Scaler | EdTech | ~$1 | 2014 |
91 | CityMall | Social Commerce | ~$1 | 2019 |
92 | ElasticRun | B2B Logistics | ~$1.5 | 2016 |
93 | InCred | FinTech | ~$1 | 2016 |
94 | BeatO | HealthTech | ~$1 | 2015 |
95 | Bizongo | B2B E-commerce | ~$1 | 2015 |
96 | Captain Fresh | AgriTech | ~$1 | 2019 |
97 | Fi | FinTech | ~$1 | 2019 |
98 | InsuranceDekho | InsurTech | ~$1 | 2016 |
99 | KreditBee | FinTech | ~$1 | 2018 |
100 | Skyroot Aerospace | Space Tech | ~$1 | 2018 |
Notes:
India’s startup ecosystem continues to thrive, with several new companies achieving unicorn status in recent years. These unicorn company in India are making significant strides in various industries, showcasing innovation and rapid growth. Here are some of the latest unicorn in India:
Company Name | Industry | Valuation (in Billion USD) | Founding Year |
---|---|---|---|
Money View | 1.21 | Alternative Lending | 2014 |
Ather Energy | Electric Vehicles | 0.71 | 2013 |
Rapido | Ride-hailing | 0.65 | 2015 |
RateGain | Software | 0.60 | 2004 |
Perfios | Financial Technology | 0.55 | 2012 |
Krutrim | Pharmaceuticals | 0.50 | 2019 |
These companies have joined the ranks of unicorn companies in India, highlighting the dynamic and innovative nature of the Indian startup ecosystem. Their achievements not only contribute to the economy but also inspire other startups to aim for greatness.
India has witnessed a booming startup culture, with several businesses reaching unicorn status — companies valued at over $1 billion. These unicorns have made significant contributions across various sectors, transforming industries and consumer experiences. Here’s a closer look at the sectors where unicorn companies in India have left a lasting impact:
Unicorn companies in India have revolutionized financial services by simplifying digital payments, lending, and financial management.
The education landscape has undergone a digital transformation, largely driven by Indian EdTech unicorns.
Indian unicorns in e-commerce have changed how consumers shop, offering convenience and variety at their fingertips.
The healthcare sector has seen significant innovation thanks to HealthTech unicorns.
The rise of unicorn company in India’s food sector has made dining and food delivery more convenient than ever.
These sectors showcase the diverse impact of unicorn company in India, which continue to innovate and contribute to the country’s economic growth while enhancing consumer experiences across industries.
Achieving the status of a unicorn company, which refers to a startup valued at over $1 billion, is a remarkable accomplishment. Startups that become unicorn company in India share several key factors that drive their success and growth. Let’s break down the essential elements behind this journey:
One of the biggest reasons a startup can transform into a unicorn company in India is by offering creative solutions to real-world problems.
Meeting the needs of a large customer base is essential for startups aiming for unicorn status.
To reach a billion-dollar valuation, startups must grow and expand rapidly without sacrificing efficiency or quality.
Venture capital funding plays a pivotal role in supporting the growth of potential unicorn company in India.
Visionary founders and strong management teams are essential for strategic decision-making and long-term growth.
Startups that excel in these areas continue to shape India’s booming economy and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs aiming to build the next unicorn company in India.
While achieving unicorn status is a significant milestone, unicorn company in India face several challenges that can impact their growth and sustainability. Here are some of the common hurdles:
Despite these challenges, unicorn company in India continue to innovate and drive growth in various industries. By addressing these hurdles proactively, they can sustain their success and contribute significantly to the economy.
The future holds tremendous potential for unicorn company in India as the country’s startup ecosystem continues to thrive. With strong government support and advancements in digital infrastructure, India is on track to produce many more billion-dollar startups. The rise of a tech-driven economy and the evolution of consumer preferences are shaping this promising future.
Here are some key trends likely to shape the next generation of unicorn company in India:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are rapidly transforming industries such as healthcare, retail, and finance.
With climate change and environmental challenges becoming major concerns, startups focusing on eco-friendly solutions are gaining traction.
The adoption of blockchain technology is expected to accelerate across multiple sectors, especially fintech, supply chain management, and data security.
India’s startup ecosystem is evolving rapidly, paving the way for the emergence of the next big unicorn company in India. With government initiatives like Startup India and investor interest in innovative ventures, entrepreneurs are empowered to create impactful solutions that shape the nation’s future.
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Investing in a unicorn company in India has become a lucrative option for both institutional and individual investors. With their innovative approaches and exponential growth rates, these companies often dominate emerging markets and lead industrial transformations.
Here’s why unicorn companies are attractive investment options and how they present high-return opportunities for investors:
A unicorn company in India is usually at the forefront of technological advancements and market trends, resulting in rapid business expansion.
Unicorn companies often set benchmarks in innovation by introducing new products and services that solve industry challenges
Many unicorn company in India don’t limit themselves to domestic markets but seek global opportunities for growth.
Investing in a unicorn company in India requires thorough research but holds the promise of rewarding outcomes for those who capitalize on these rising stars. With India’s flourishing startup ecosystem, the future looks promising for investors and entrepreneurs alike.
If you dream of working in a fast-paced, innovative environment, a unicorn company in India can be the perfect place to build a rewarding career. These high-growth startups not only lead in innovation but also offer exciting roles for professionals across various domains.
Unicorn companies thrive on cutting-edge technology, making tech roles some of the most sought-after positions.
A unicorn company in India constantly aims to expand its customer base and strengthen its market presence.
Managing business processes efficiently is crucial for unicorns that are scaling up rapidly.
Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, creative marketer, or operations expert, working at a unicorn company in India offers unparalleled growth, learning, and the chance to be part of game-changing innovations.
A unicorn company in India not only achieves remarkable business success but also plays a critical role in shaping the country’s economy. These innovative startups contribute to various sectors and influence national growth in multiple ways. Here’s a closer look at their significant economic impact:
The rise of unicorn companies is a testament to India’s evolving entrepreneurial ecosystem. As more such companies emerge, they are likely to further accelerate economic growth, technological advancements, and global recognition for India.
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India’s startup ecosystem has been thriving, and as of January 2025, there are 117 unicorn companies in the country. Here are some key insights about these unicorns:
India’s startup ecosystem is vibrant and continues to grow, making it an exciting space to watch.
Unicorn company in India are transforming the nation’s economic landscape, fostering innovation, and creating jobs. Understanding the journey, success factors, and impact of these companies can inspire budding entrepreneurs and investors alike. With government support and increasing digital adoption, the future for unicorn companies in India looks promising.
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A unicorn is a startup valued over $1 billion. Examples: Flipkart, Byju’s, Ola.
As of 2024, the total unicorn company in India are 112+ unicorns, per Hurun India and Tracxn.
The 1st unicorn of India is BYJU’S (edtech) it was India’s first decacorn (valued ~$22 billion at peak).
The 101st unicorn (2022) was Open, a neo-banking startup.
Total unicorn companies in India are 112+ unicorns as of July 2024, led by fintech, edtech, and e-commerce sectors.
Exact rankings vary, but early 2024 additions include KreditBee (fintech) and BharatRohan (agritech).
The 110th unicorn (2023) was Incred Finance (fintech).
Top 10 unicorns in India (by valuation) are:-
1. BYJU’S (Edtech)
2. Flipkart (E-commerce)
3. Paytm (Fintech)
4. Ola (Mobility)
5. Oyo (Hospitality)
6. Swiggy (Foodtech)
7. PharmEasy (Healthtech)
8. Dream11 (Gaming)
9. Unacademy (Edtech)
10. Zetwerk (B2B manufacturing)
InMobi gained the title of the first Unicorn in India in 2011. It is a multinational mobile advertising technology company. The headquarters is in Bengaluru. It allows the advertisers to engage for the first time with the consumers through mobile. Through this, advertisers can identify and engage with the best customers and gain profits.
The government has taken several steps like Startup India, SEED fund, MAARG scheme, SETU fund, and Atal Innovation Mission to promote startups in India. Government intervention through these schemes has allowed the startups to reach the position of unicorns. These initiatives have promoted startups and unicorns in the right direction.
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