What Can Startups Expect At The G20 Summit?
On September 9 and 10, the nation's capital will host the G20 Summit. For the G20 Summit, more than 25 world leaders, including US President Joe Biden, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Türkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdoan, and others, will be heading to India in the second week of September. The G20 is a prime example of cooperation and development in the multifaceted realm of the global economy. The G20 provides chances for our economy, particularly for startups, as well as a forum for nations to gather and debate regulations.
The Startup20 engagement group was the first of its kind to be constituted under India's leadership. It signals the rise of start-ups as economic pillars and grants them a spot at the top display, which was formerly held only by large, established companies. In the last five years, the Indian startup ecosystem has witnessed exponential growth. As of May 2023, we are home to 108 Unicorns, collectively valued at USD 340.80 billion. Out of them, 44 Unicorns emerged in just 2021 and 2022.

Edul Patel, CEO & Co-founder, Mudrex said, "In the last five years, the Indian startup ecosystem has witnessed exponential growth. As of May 2023, we are home for 108 Unicorns, collectively valued at USD 340.80 billion. Out of them, 44 Unicorns emerged in just 2021 and 2022. This rapid growth places India as the third-largest global startup ecosystem. As the host of this year's G20 Summit, India's presidency holds the potential to shape crucial aspects for startups, including taxation, trade policies, and innovative regulations. The summit's outcomes could facilitate wider market access and collaborations, amplifying investor confidence and funding opportunities. Overall, the G20 Summit is going to have a good amount of impact on the India's dynamic startup landscape."
Mayank Bhatnagar, Chief Operating Officer, FinEdge said, "India's presidency at the G20 summit (that represents nearly 85% of the world's GDP) is a huge validation of the future of our economy. As the fastest growing economy in an increasingly polarized world stage, India will be better positioned to influence policy at a global level after the summit. Sharing of tech best practices could spur further innovation within the economy. Direct engagements with global businesses on the B20 platform (the business engagement group of G20) could catalyze foreign investment and partnership opportunities. And of course, hosting the G20 will give Indian tourism a boost as well. With our healthy macro fundamentals, favorable demographics, and strong public finances, India is uniquely poised to lead the way when it comes to economic growth over the next decade. We will play a pivotal role in the global economy in the times to come, and the summit presidency will surely further boost sentiment and investor morale going forward. All these augur well for our economy and give confidence to both retail and institutional investors to participate in the unfolding growth story."
Shauraya Bhutani, Co-founder of Capital Connect Advisors said, "As the world's fastest-growing major economy, India has put in place several domestic policies that can fuel its economic growth, with a focus on innovation, inclusivity, and stability. By collaborating with the administrations of G20 nations, India can help formulate stronger economic rebuilding measures for the coming years and cultivate an increased level of entrepreneurial activity worldwide. Having assumed the G20 presidency, India is also expected to embark on a mission to foster a collective global future, with the support of the Amrit Kaal initiative. India's aspiration encompasses cultivating a rules-based international order, nurturing peace, and ensuring equitable growth for all. The pre-2023 Summit itinerary featured a series of events aimed at bolstering India's agenda. These have solidified India's G20 leadership and the fulfillment of its six focal thematic priorities."
Sheetal Bhalerao, Chairperson and Managing Director, Wardwizard Foods and Beverages Ltd said, "The G20 has the potential to greatly benefit India's economy through various avenues. Firstly, it provides a platform for India to engage with other major economies and discuss important global economic issues, leading to valuable insights and collaborations for enhanced economic growth. Secondly, the G20 can attract foreign direct investment, boosting sectors, employment, and technology. Additionally, it supports India in addressing challenges like poverty alleviation and sustainable growth, offering expertise and best practices. The G20's emphasis on inclusive and sustainable growth aligns with India's vision. In sum, the G20 shapes global agendas and offers India opportunities to strengthen its economy and foster international collaborations."
Vikul Goyal, Founder & CEO, Bimaplan said, "As a nation of startups, we are all looking forward to the upcoming G20 Summit, which presents a promising opportunity for insurtechs where we can anticipate discussions on fostering innovation, regulatory frameworks, and cross-border collaboration. The summit's global perspective is an opportunity to shape policies that nurture insurtech growth by implementing international success stories in India, encouraging responsible practices, and ensuring financial inclusion for the underserved by providing more inclusive distribution opportunities for startups. While providing easy market access, the Summit can also help us create a future roadmap that will thrive and contribute to the transformation of the insurance industry on a global scale."
Anita Gandhi, Director, Arihant Capital Markets Ltd, said "The G20, a crucial international platform uniting major economies, holds immense potential to bolster India's economic growth. The country's financial objectives are evident in the forthcoming G20 summit in India. It seeks to establish robust partnerships for practical workforce skilling and upskilling while promoting labour mobility that benefits host and source nations. Embracing digitization is another priority to strengthen labour markets and enhance service delivery. Moreover, the G20 platform presents an opportunity to streamline the intricate direct and indirect tax structures among member nations, aligning with India's commitment to fostering economic development and cooperation on a global scale."
Mathana Prithviraj, Co-Founder and Product Head Workhall said "Startups attending the G20 conference can look forward to an exceptional platform for global visibility and collaboration. The conference brings together international leaders, industry pioneers, and investors, creating an environment conducive to networking and collaboration. The summit provides a unique opportunity for Workhall, a pioneer in revolutionizing Business Operations Support through futuristic digital apps and a groundbreaking AI-driven Platform, to demonstrate how its cutting-edge services match with the future of work. Engaging with other firms, debating technical advances, and seeking synergies could help accelerate the objective of improving workplace dynamics and efficiency. The G20 summit serves as a catalyst for businesses like Workhall to communicate their vision, exchange ideas, and help shape the global landscape of business innovation."
Vaibhav Tambe Founder & CEO, TransBnk said "G20's engagement with fintech is pivotal for economic growth as more and more innovations is being implemented. By fostering innovative financial technologies, G20 nations can enhance efficiency, expand financial inclusion, and spur entrepreneurship. Effective regulation ensures stability while promoting innovation, leading to increased access to financial services and job creation. This synergy between fintech and G20's economic agenda has the potential to drive sustainable economic growth and resilience, especially in emerging markets, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and prosperous global economy. India's G20 Presidency is a medium of change towards more resilient, responsive, and sustainable health systems and to advance previously established G20 pandemic preparedness efforts. G20 can help shape a global health agenda focused on ensuring universal, affordable, and quality health services."
Ankur Srivastava Co-founder and CEO of QiMedia and QiTech said "The G20's role in shaping India's economic landscape is quite impactful. It has the potential to boost India's economy by spurring growth, attracting investments from other countries, making our infrastructure better, smoothing the way for trade, and even helping us tackle climate change issues. Right now, India is the head of the G20, which is a bit like being the captain of a team. This gives us a big chance to not only make our voice heard on the global stage but also to suggest ways for everyone to work together to solve economic problems. We can tell other countries about our journey and how we've managed to grow, be financially strong, and also look after our environment. Talking about startups, the G20 could be like a friendly mentor. It can help create a better environment for startups to thrive, find investors who believe in their ideas, help them find new markets, create favorable conditions, and foster cross-border collaboration."
Sathvik Vishwanath, CEO and co-founder of Unocoin said "Led by the theme of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', India's G20 presidency has significant potential to contribute to the global economy in several ways. Economic growth through urbanization: By focusing on cities as engines of economic growth, India's G20 agenda is in line with the global trend of urbanization. Sharing best practices, innovative policies and investment strategies for sustainable urban development can stimulate economic activity, create jobs and increase productivity on a global scale. This approach can also attract foreign direct investment and boost economic growth in the G20 and beyond. Clean Energy Transition and Innovation: India's commitment to clean energy transition can be a catalyst for the growth of the renewable energy sector globally. Cooperation in technology transfer, R&D and policy frameworks can accelerate the adoption of clean energy sources, leading to lower carbon emissions and increased energy security. Such efforts can drive economic growth by creating new markets, job opportunities, and fostering innovation in clean energy technologies. Global health security and resilience: Strengthening the global health agenda can have far-reaching economic consequences. By improving pandemic preparedness, improving health systems and fostering international cooperation, G20 countries, led by India, can mitigate the economic disruptions caused by health crises. A more resilient global health infrastructure can prevent large-scale economic downturns and ensure more efficient recovery processes. Enhanced trade and cooperation: India's focus on promoting cooperation and unanimity can boost international trade and investment. As G20 countries work together to address common challenges, trust and cooperation can increase, leading to lower trade barriers, better market access and a more stable global business environment. This favorable atmosphere can boost economic growth and stability across the G20 economies. Sustainable Development and Inclusive Growth: India's G20 Presidency highlights the importance of sustainable and inclusive development through its emphasis on urbanization, clean energy and health cooperation. Such an approach can lead to reduced inequality, improved social well-being and increased economic resilience. A balanced and fair growth model can contribute to global economic stability and shared prosperity. In summary, India's G20 presidency has the potential to positively impact the global economy by promoting sustainable urban development, clean energy transition and international health cooperation. By fostering cooperation among G20 countries, addressing common challenges and creating a more inclusive and resilient economic environment, India's leadership can contribute to a stronger, more sustainable and prosperous global economy".
Aditya Joshi, CEO at Opalforce said "In 2023, India holds the G20 presidency, a crucial opportunity to bolster its global business standing. As a diplomatic endeavor, this presidency aims to fortify existing partnerships, cultivate new ones, and elevate India's image and economic influence. Despite multifaceted challenges, India has showcased remarkable resilience. While the global landscape faced economic turmoil and uncertainty, India's steadfast growth trajectory prevailed, yielding benefits through innovative strategies. The G20 presidency offers India a platform to spotlight its achievements and attract international businesses. At a time when global enterprises are actively seeking diverse investment avenues, India stands poised to showcase its potential as an investment destination, contributing to the nation's economic growth."
Hormazd Mistry, CEO - ROI Institute India said The G20 forum stands as a beacon of global cooperation, offering India a unique opportunity to bolster its economy. Assuming the G20 presidency has allowed India to gain a seat at the table of the world's foremost economies, enabling it to lead discussions and initiatives that directly impact its economic trajectory. India has tapped into a wealth of expertise, resources, and collaborative potential by fostering strategic alliances and engaging in meaningful dialogues with the world's largest economies. Through its G20 presidency, India can attract foreign investments, foster trade partnerships, and harness best practices in sustainable development, innovation, and financial stability. As the world's fastest-growing major economy, India's active leadership in G20 can drive inclusive growth, job creation, and technological advancement within and across the globe. This platform has empowered India to shape policy agendas that align with its national priorities, ensuring a prosperous future for its citizens. By using its presidency to amplify the voices of developing economies, India contributes to global economic resilience and equity. With G20's collective strength, India stands poised to navigate challenges, harness opportunities, and pave a transformative path towards economic prosperity and well-being for all while leaving an indelible mark on the global economic landscape.
Ranjita Raman, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Jaro Education said The 2023 G20 Summit in India offers edutech startups a prime opportunity to showcase innovations and foster global collaborations. Representing over 85% of the global GDP, the summit ensures diverse exposure, magnifying startups' potential for global prominence. Anchored by the theme 'One Earth, One Family, One Future through Education,' the summit highlights education's pivotal role in addressing pressing challenges. Functioning as a hub for innovation exhibitions and networking, the summit propels startups forward. This is vital for India's burgeoning edtech market, poised to surpass $10 billion by 2025, potentially marking a transformative milestone. Beyond visibility, the summit provides a unique platform for startups to shape policy dialogues, influencing the education and technology landscape with lasting impact. Built on innovation, the summit's showcases and networking avenues incubate collaboration. Prior summits have birthed partnerships shaping entire industries. Startups leveraging technology for interactive, cost-effective learning attract investor and partner interest. The 2023 G20 Summit stands as a pivotal opportunity for edutech startups to showcase pioneering solutions, with potential for global scalability.
This rapid growth places India as the third-largest global startup ecosystem. As the host of this year's G20 Summit, India's presidency holds the potential to shape crucial aspects for startups, including taxation, trade policies, and innovative regulations. The summit's outcomes could facilitate wider market access and collaborations, amplifying investor confidence and funding opportunities. Overall, the G20 Summit is going to have a good amount of impact on India's dynamic startup landscape, said Edul Patel, CEO & Co-founder, Mudrex.
Startups can anticipate a dynamic and insightful experience that I am sure will offer them a unique blend of opportunities. The G20 Summit is a global platform for leaders, innovators, and businesses to engage in discussions about pressing economic and technological issues.
Business leaders will get to connect with industry pioneers, investors, and potential collaborators from around the world. Needless to say, the G20 Summit gathers a diverse range of participants, offering startups a chance to form meaningful connections. They will get to interact with policymakers, government officials, and influential figures who can shape the regulatory landscape and offer insights into the global economic direction.
Startups can present their groundbreaking ideas, products, and services on an international stage, gaining visibility and potential partnerships. Entrepreneurs can attend sessions led by experts in various fields, which can provide valuable insights into emerging trends, market shifts, and regulatory developments that impact startups. Most importantly, they will gain an understanding of policy changes, regulatory trends, and initiatives that could impact the startup ecosystem, said Somdutta Singh, Founder and CEO, Assiduus Global Inc.
For nearly two decades, the nation's economic growth engines have been running strong. We have witnessed many homegrown businesses growing in size, and many have left a significant worldwide footprint. Earlier, we had limited business influence on the world stage but that has swiftly changed. The G20 presidency allows India to showcase its success stories with the globe while also bringing global enterprises to India.
According to the IMF's most recent predictions, emerging markets and developing countries will account for around 80% of global growth, with India accounting for more than 15%. India, which recently became the world's fifth-largest economy, is also the only global country expected to grow at a rate of more than 6% in the future years. As a result, it bears a great deal of responsibility this year to be a voice for the Global South in its agenda and to use the G20 platform as a catalyst for global and domestic change, according to Dhruv Agarwal, Co-Founder, EasyDesq.
India's G20 presidency is more than a ceremonial role; it's a strategic lever for shaping both global policy and accelerating our own economy. Through our leadership in areas like infrastructure, fintech, and sustainability, we're doing more than just securing international support and channelling global expertise and financial resources toward our national priorities. Our strides in fintech infrastructure development, exemplified by systems like UPI, are not only boosting our economy but have also garnered global recognition, prompting the world to bring these innovations to the forefront. From harnessing AI and digital public infrastructure to pioneering green initiatives, India's G20 presidency transforms us from mere participants to influential architects of an inclusive, technology-driven, and sustainable global economy, said Aryaman Vir, CEO, Aurum WiseX.
Ashwani Singh, Managing Partner, 35North Ventures, India Discovery Fund said start-ups can expect an easing of compliances and speed of new company set-up as well as closure of a company which needs to be closed. Support from local state bodies in incubator centres.
Rashi and Nidhi Sethi - Skin Story said, that as a start up we expect government policies that foster innovation and entrepreneurship to help us grow. We would also benefit from tax incentives, business advice and mentorship programs. These resources can provide guidance on business planning, legal requirements and access to networks within India. The G20 Summit gathers leaders, policymakers, investors, and business figures from around the world
Exposure: Startups can gain significant exposure by participating in various events, workshops, and exhibitions
Access to Investors: The G20 Summit attracts a wide range of investors, including venture capitalists, angel investors, and representatives from financial institutions. Startups can pitch their ideas and innovations to potential investors seeking promising opportunities.
Pritiesh Mahajan founder of Revamp Moto said Indian start-ups are eyeing the G20 Summit as a conversion of global opportunities in our nation capital; New Delhi. The G20 platform is expected to offer a plethora of possibilities for startups to present their innovations, engage with business leaders, and participate in debates about sustainable mobility and climate goals.
The relevance of EV companies has also been acknowledged at the G20 Summit as the world is moving towards cleaner and more sustainable forms of transportation. The platform will also present a great opportunity for Indian startup entrepreneurs for networking with industry peers, global suppliers, potential partners, and collaborators who are as passionate about advancing the electric mobility revolution. The G20 Summit will also present a platform for knowledge sharing, discussing global economic trends and trade dynamics thus helping the Indian startup founders to learn about new markets, consumer preferences, and regulatory changes that affect the EV sector.
Manas Pal, Co-Founder, PedalStart said at the G20 Summit, startups can anticipate an unparalleled intersection of innovation and global influence. This platform offers a rare chance to connect with diverse minds, forge pivotal partnerships, and advocate for an ecosystem that fuels entrepreneurial growth. It's not just a summit; it's a compass guiding startups towards a future woven by collaboration and driven by innovation.
Moreover, startups can leverage this forum to advocate for a conducive ecosystem. As they navigate through the corridors of power, they can champion for streamlined regulations, increased access to funding, and supportive infrastructures. The G20 Summit isn't just an event; it's an embodiment of the potential that lies in collaboration between startups and established economies.
At PedalStart, we breathe life into our commitment towards startup upliftment. Beyond our own journey, we've dedicated resources to empower fellow startups. Through mentorship, workshops, and collaborative initiatives, we're sowing the seeds of collective growth. Just as we believe in the power of innovation, we believe in fostering a thriving ecosystem where startups uplift each other, propelling success through shared knowledge and support.
In essence, the G20 Summit is where startups amplify their potential, embarking on a transformative journey that resonates far beyond the confines of convention.
Mr.Dev Arora, Co-founder & CEO of Alt Mobility said as an innovative EV startup, we are excitedly looking forward to the G20 summit's dynamic platform. This event offers a priceless opportunity for the exchange of revolutionary ideas, insightful policy perspectives, and potential collaborations. These elements are crucial in hastening the global shift towards sustainable mobility. By engaging with world leaders, industry trailblazers, and environmental advocates, we are further invigorated in our dedication to shaping a cleaner future. Our aim is to not only present electric vehicles as a mode of transportation but also as a driving force behind economic prosperity, technological advancement, and environmental balance. With our active participation in the G20 summit, we are primed to both contribute and absorb, initiating conversations that have the power to ignite substantial and lasting transformations.
Jitesh Mathur, Chief Revenue Officer - Medikabazaar said startups can anticipate an unprecedented platform for collaboration and growth at the G20 summit. As innovation-driven engines of the global economy growth, startups stand to gain significant insights and opportunities from this gathering of world-leading nations. The summit is poised to address critical issues that directly impact startup ecosystems, such as access to international markets, funding, regulatory frameworks, and cross-border partnerships.
At the G20, startups can expect engagements on technology and innovations paving the way for discussions on harnessing emerging technologies for social and economic progress. The summit will likely emphasize creating an enabling international environment that encourages entrepreneurship, talent acquisition and development and digital business infrastructure. G20 summit offers startups a chance to interact and learn with established businesses, policymakers, and investors. Networking and knowledge-sharing will be invaluable, fostering connections that can elevate startups onto the global stage. Startups should prepare to showcase their innovative solutions. In essence, startups attending the G20 summit can look forward to a conducive environment for growth, collaboration, and meaningful contributions to the global socio-economic landscape, said Jitesh Mathur.
Manish Khanna, Co-Founder at Unlisted Assets said the G20 Summit presents a unique opportunity for startups to harness the power of increased access to investment capital. As high net worth investors, venture capitalists, and economic policy makers converge at this prestigious platform, startups have a prime chance to showcase their disruptive ideas and latest developments.
The presence of influential individuals from the financial and policymaking sectors creates an environment conducive for startups to gain exposure and secure potential funding. The G20 Summit acts as a catalyst for connecting startups with key decision-makers who possess the resources and knowledge necessary to propel innovative ventures forward.
By participating in the G20 Summit, startups can access a vast network of thought leaders and decision-makers who possess deep industry knowledge and expertise. This exposure can provide startups with invaluable guidance on navigating complex regulatory frameworks, accessing funding opportunities, and scaling their innovative solutions globally.
Furthermore, the G20 Summit serves as a platform for startups to demonstrate their ability to drive economic growth and address pressing challenges through their cutting-edge solutions. The convergence of diverse perspectives fosters an environment where innovative ideas are valued and nurtured.
In conclusion, increased access to investment capital through the G20 Summit offers immense potential for startups seeking growth opportunities. With high-net-worth investors, venture capitalists, and economic policy makers in attendance, these emerging startups have a unique chance to showcase their disruptive ideas and latest developments on a global stage, stated Manish Khanna.
Nistha Tripathi, Founder and Director, 24NorthStar said the Summit is expected to drive greater focus on rules based world order. This is critical for startups that are looking at opportunities beyond India towards International markets.
Ashutosh Goyal, Founder & CEO of Flipshope said the G20 Summit is a significant platform that brings leaders from the world's largest economies together to discuss various global issues, including those related to business, innovation, and startups.
Startups participating in the G20 Summit can anticipate a range of valuable opportunities. First and foremost, the summit provides an unparalleled networking environment. It offers startups the chance to connect with influential leaders, potential investors, and fellow entrepreneurs from across the globe. These connections can lead to partnerships, collaborations, and investment prospects vital for startup growth.
Additionally, the G20 Summit often features discussions and panels focused on innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship. This presents startups with a unique chance to gain insights from thought leaders and experts in these fields. The knowledge shared during these sessions can help startups refine strategies, enhance understanding of market trends, and identify potential disruption areas.
Furthermore, the G20 Summit serves as a platform for startups to showcase their innovative solutions. Many summits feature exhibitions or showcases where startups can present products, services, and technologies to a diverse audience. This exposure can lead to increased visibility, media coverage, and potential customer interest.
In summary, startups attending the G20 Summit can expect a confluence of networking opportunities, knowledge sharing, exposure, and policy insights. Participation in such a prestigious event can accelerate growth trajectories and open doors to new collaborations and partnerships. As the global economy continues to evolve, startups' contributions and perspectives are increasingly valued, making their involvement in forums like the G20 Summit super important, stated Ashutosh Goyal.
Founder of DRI Himadri - Himadri Patel said at the G20 summit, startups can benefit from global networking opportunities, they can even get in-depth insights into market trends.They get the opportunity to connect with global leaders, gain insights into business trends, and showcase their brand to a vast international audience.
Shavir Bansal, founder of bekifaayati community said G20 is a unique forum where 2 kinds of countries are coming on the same platform. On one hand, Countries like India, US have already showcased remarkable innovations in their startup ecosystems. On the other, there are countries still in the process of fostering their startup landscapes. This convergence could facilitate a valuable exchange of knowledge among countries, fostering a mutual learning process. This convergence is also a chance for India's startups to stand out. They can go beyond their country and offer their Technology to others worldwide. One obvious benefit for Startups from G20 is access to Global Investors (Private Capital). But I would like to take a step beyond- Since G20 is also a place where regulators from different
countries gather on the same forum, this could potentially lead to flow of Public Capital from one
Country to another. This could mean Indian Startups listing in other countries, or Startups of
other countries listing in India.
Another area where I feel a lot of Countries could learn from the Indian diaspora is the
importance of Digitizing the Economy. In India, over the past 5-6 years a lot of things have been
digitized- Bank Accounts, Financial Transactions, Identity Proof, etc. In my opinion, Digitizing
the Economy could be one of the biggest levers in shaping India's Growth in the next decade.
I feel that majority countries (even amongst G20) are yet to Digitize their Economies. A lot of
Indian Startups have an incredible opportunity to make a dent in the economies of other
countries by helping them Digitize their Economy.
According toAmit Tyagi, CEO, PayWorld India's G20 presidency is an opportunity to showcase the country's economic progress and to shape the global agenda on issues such as inclusive growth, sustainable development, and climate change. The G20 is a powerful platform for India to engage with other major economies and to promote its interests. As a result of India's presidency, we can expect to see increased investment in India, improved access to technology, and stronger trade ties. This will all help to boost India's economy and create jobs for its people."
Here are some specific ways that the G20 can help India's economy:
• Increased investment: The G20 can help to attract increased investment to India by promoting the country as a stable and attractive investment destination. This can be done by improving the investment climate, reducing red tape, and providing incentives for foreign investors.
• Improved access to technology: The G20 can help to improve India's access to technology by promoting cooperation between India and other G20 countries on research and development, and by providing financial assistance for technology transfer. This will help India to develop its own technological capabilities and to become more competitive in the global economy.
• Showcasing our DPI prowess to the world The advancements that India has made in the space of Digital Public INfrastructure is unparalleled. G20 Summit would be a great avenue for us to showcase and offer this to the entire world thereby fulfilling India's role as VishwaGuru
• Stronger trade ties: The G20 can help strengthen India's trade ties by promoting free trade and investment and reducing trade barriers. This will help India to expand its exports and attract more foreign investment, which will boost economic growth.
The G20 is a valuable platform for India to promote its interests and shape the global agenda. The country's presidency of the G20 is an opportunity to showcase India's economic progress and to lay the foundation for a more prosperous future.