Startup Funding Soars 170% YoY, Ather Energy’s $71M Boost Ignites Unicorn Surge


Last updated: September 16, 2024

Startup Funding Soars 170% YoYThis week, startups secured $238.1 million in funding between August 10 and 16—a striking 170% increase from the same time last year, when funding reached $88.3 million.

However, this total represents a 120% decrease from the previous week’s significant $527.9 million haul.

Startups across early and late stages secured funding through 23 rounds, outpacing last year’s 15 rounds during the same week.

The data, curated by Tracxn, underscores a growing investor appetite, even as market dynamics shift.

Leading the charge, electric scooter manufacturer Ather Energy closed a $71.5 million round, elevating its valuation to $1.3 billion.

This milestone makes Ather the fourth unicorn of the year, and the second in the mobility sector, following Rapido.

This latest funding, fueled by existing investor National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF), signifies more than just a cash injection—it’s a testament to the growing confidence in sustainable mobility solutions.

Elsewhere, Singapore-based Syfe raised $27 million, continuing its momentum with backing from heavyweights like Peter Thiel’s Valar Ventures and London’s Unbound.

Syfe’s story is one of steady ascent, with this latest round signaling strong international confidence in its investment platform.

Neo Group, a player in the wealth and asset management space, secured $47.7 million in a round led by MUFG Bank, with additional support from Euclidean Capital and Peak XV Partners.

Neo Group’s growth reflects a broader trend of financial startups attracting significant capital as they navigate complex global markets.

Meanwhile, trade finance platform Vayana garnered $20.5 million in a Series D round led by Asia Rising Fund, co-founded by Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC).

The round saw participation from a diverse pool of investors, including the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Chiratae Ventures.

Vayana’s latest raise will fuel its ambitions to roll out new products, setting the stage for its next phase of growth.

Venture capital firms like Elevation Capital, Venture Catalysts, and Yali Capital were notably active this week, underscoring their pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of market leaders.

This week’s funding surge is more than just a numbers game—it’s a signal that the startup ecosystem remains vibrant, driven by innovation and resilience.

As market conditions evolve, these startups are not just surviving; they’re thriving, carving out their place in a rapidly shifting business landscape.

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About The Author

Co-Founder & Chief Editor
Jon Morgan, MBA, LLM, has over ten years of experience growing startups and currently serves as CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Venture Smarter. Educated at UC Davis and Harvard, he offers deeply informed guidance. Beyond work, he enjoys spending time with family, his poodle Sophie, and learning Spanish.
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Growth & Transition Advisor
LJ Viveros has 40 years of experience in founding and scaling businesses, including a significant sale to Logitech. He has led Market Solutions LLC since 1999, focusing on strategic transitions for global brands. A graduate of Saint Mary’s College in Communications, LJ is also a distinguished Matsushita Executive alumnus.
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