STARTUPS UNPLUGGED: INSIGHTS INTO CHALLENGES & GROWTH OF INDIA’S STARTUP ECO SYSTEM

This research paper presents a case study-based examination of India's startup ecosystem, analysing demographic trends, financing patterns, entrepreneurial challenges faced by startups, government policies, and the evolving business practices through an in-depth study of 15 diverse startups from Ahmedabad. The study reveals how most ventures begin with bootstrapping, which clearly demonstrates the resourcefulness of Indian entrepreneurs, while also highlighting the emergence of alternative funding sources like state grants and opportunities by the government. Key challenges faced by startups highlighted in the study include educating consumers about innovative technologies, navigating complex government support programs, and transforming creative concepts into market-ready products. This research also focuses on how government initiatives like Startup India and SSIP Gujarat are streamlining regulatory processes and providing financial assistance, even still accessibility remains an issue.