Startup news and updates: daily roundup (January 16, 2026)
Features stories
India’s startup ecosystem shifts to disciplined, tech-first growth
India’s startup landscape is undergoing a fundamental transformation, moving away from growth-at-any-cost strategies toward sustainability and global competitiveness, according to industry experts marking Startup Day 2026.
The shift is driven by three key forces: technological advancement, particularly AI and deeptech; stricter capital deployment focused on unit economics over valuations; and expanding talent pools beyond major metros.
Tier-II and Tier-III cities like Jaipur and Ahmedabad are emerging as founder hubs with deeper mass-market insights. However, challenges persist around advanced skills shortages and regulatory complexity.
Read here.
Dosa with a side of AI
Friends Avinit Bagri and Sankrit Iyer launched The Filter Coffee in 2014, with a Rs 75 lakh investment, as a 40-seater outlet in Bengaluru’s Kalyanagar. Their mission was simple: South Indian food deserves better.
The Filter Coffee treats its restaurants like factory floors and its manufacturing facility like a tech lab. From AI-powered manufacturing to multi-format expansion and a new FMCG vertical, the company is rewriting the South Indian ‘darshini’ experience.
By October 2026, the brand aims for 22 outlets in Karnataka’s capital alone, and by 2027, new cities are on the horizon.
Read here.
Latest news
Amazon MX Player launches founder-focused reality show with Rs 100 Cr funding pool
Entrepreneurial reality show Bharat Ke Super Founders premiered on Amazon MX Player on January 16. Hosted by Suniel Shetty, the series features a Rs 100 crore capital commitment for Indian startups in a reality format.
Co-produced by Rusk Media and Recur Club, the show spotlights founders from small towns and emerging markets, offering access to equity, debt funding, and mentorship. Investors include A. Velumani, Nitish Mittersain, among others. The startup show celebrates entrepreneurs’ journeys and challenges.
Ola Electric secures BIS Certification for Shakti 9.1kWh battery system
Ola Electric has obtained Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification for its Shakti residential Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in 6kW/9.1kWh configuration powered by 4680 Bharat cells.
According to the company’s official release, Shakti underwent comprehensive electrical and mechanical safety tests including short-circuit protection, thermal hazard safeguards, and environmental stress testing.
The system offers automotive-grade safety with zero running costs, instant 0ms changeover time, and operates across 170V-270V input voltage range. IP67-rated batteries ensure protection against dust and water.
Available in two configurations, 3kW/5.2kWh at Rs 1,49,999, and 6kW/9.1kWh at Rs 2,49,999, Shakti can power air conditioners, refrigerators, and farm equipment with up to 1.5 hours backup on full load. Deliveries for the 9.1kWh variant begin end-January 2026, with the 5.2kWh model following mid-February.
Edited by Affirunisa Kankudti
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