India’s startup funding area is moving across very different sectors at once. New capital is flowing into electric-vehicle technology, climate solutions, esports, and deep-tech investing.

The latest updates include Viridian Ingni’s Pre-Seed round, Carbelim’s investment from the IIT Madras Unicorn Frontier Fund, Let’s Game Now’s esports push, and Aavishkaar Group’s plan for a large new fund. Each story has a different goal, but all point to growing interest in technology-led businesses with long-term potential.

Viridian Ingni bets on homegrown EV propulsion

Chennai-based Viridian Ingni Propulsion has raised Rs. 1.47 crore in a Pre-Seed round led by Inflection Point Ventures. The startup was founded in February 2024 by Sriram G, who is also its chief executive.

Viridian Ingni develops electric propulsion systems, which include the motor, controller, and the software that manages their performance. These systems can be used in electric two-wheelers, e-rickshaws, drones, robots, and industrial machines.

As per Business Fortnight, the funding will help the company move from working prototypes to pilot production. It plans to spend on motor tooling, a small manufacturing setup, testing and certification, controller software validation, and initial customer deliveries.

The startup’s larger aim is to reduce dependence on imported EV components. Its competition includes established motor makers and overseas suppliers, but a locally designed system could be useful for Indian vehicle makers looking for customized solutions.

Carbelim takes its climate technology forward

Carbelim has secured Rs. 10 crore from the IIT Madras Unicorn Frontier Fund. The Kerala Startup Mission-backed company was founded by Dr. Karthika Gopi and Rahul Babu.

Carbelim works on microalgae-based carbon-capture and air-purification systems. In simple terms, its technology uses algae to absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. The company is developing solutions for cities and industries that want cleaner air and lower emissions.

As per Sahyadri Startups, the new funding is expected to support technology development, production scale-up, and international growth. Carbelim says it has filed 13 patents, including Indian and US applications, for its work.

Climate technology is a demanding field because a product must work reliably outside the lab. Carbelim will compete with conventional air-purification companies, carbon-capture businesses, and other climate-tech startups. Its use of algae-based systems gives it a distinct place in that market.

Let’s Game Now builds an esports league

Esports platform Let’s Game Now has raised Rs. 30 crore in a round co-led by Anand Mahindra and Bestvantage Investments. A UAE-based family office also participated.

Founded in 2018 by Santanu Basu, Let’s Game Now runs gaming tournaments, offline events, live broadcasts, and brand campaigns. Basu has also co-founded the Indian Super Gaming League with Gautam Badalia.

As per the Talk eSport, the capital will be used to develop the Indian Super Gaming League, or ISGL. The league is designed around a franchise format, similar to professional sports leagues. Instead of only hosting one-off tournaments, it aims to create a more organized path for players, teams, coaches, analysts, broadcasters, and sponsors.

The company faces competition from gaming platforms, tournament organizers, and esports publishers. Still, backing from investors with experience in building major sports properties could help ISGL attract teams and commercial partners.

Aavishkaar Group prepares its next big pool of capital

Aavishkaar Group is targeting Rs. 2,000 crore for its seventh fund. This is a fundraising target, not money that has already been collected or invested as per Venture Intelligence.

Founded in 2001 by Vineet Rai, Aavishkaar has long focused on businesses that combine commercial growth with social or environmental impact. Its proposed fund is expected to concentrate on deep-tech areas such as advanced materials, agriculture, technical textiles, tissue culture, and space technology.

Unlike the other three stories, Aavishkaar is not raising money for one startup. It is building a fund that could support several emerging companies over time. The group reportedly aims to announce at least six deep-tech investments before December.