Sunday, June 21, 2026
Home Blog Page 262

Data privacy startup Skyflow raises $30mn in funding 

0
Anshu Sharma, Co-Founder and CEO of Skyflow

Skyflow, a company that provides a service through an application programming interface (API) to store user data for businesses, has secured $30 million to expand its Series B funding. Khosla Ventures and previous investors Mouro Capital, Foundation Capital, and Canvas Ventures led the round.

According to a statement from the company, the new funding comes as there is a growing demand for protecting sensitive data, especially for Large Language Models (LLMs) in a new and developing market.

Based in Palo Alto, California, the startup was founded by Anshu Sharma and Roshmik Saha, alumni of IIT Kharagpur. Their company offers data privacy vault services to digital-native businesses. These services help companies segregate, safeguard, and regulate sensitive customer data.

Skyflow utilizes a unique technology known as polymorphic encryption. This technology ensures data protection without compromising usability for essential business functions like analytics, marketing, and customer support.

“We see an urgent need for companies to make privacy a core part of their technology stack as LLMs and AI hurdle forward, ingesting more and more personal data,” said Sharma, the CEO of Skyflow. 

Businesses can opt for Skyflow’s systems to securely integrate Large Language Models (LLMs) and fulfill data localization regulations worldwide. The platform serves clients such as GoodRx, Lenovo, and Hippocratic AI, managing nearly a billion user data r

“With the advent of enterprise applications powered by artificial intelligence, the need for trust and privacy infrastructure is key to protecting sensitive data. Skyflow is rethinking how data can be managed and protected across any app, cloud or LLM, making it a company that will be vital for every enterprise business,” Vinod Khosla, founder of Khosla Ventures, said in the statement. 

Skyflow, with an additional office in Bengaluru, previously raised $45 million in a Series B funding round in 2021.

Accel selects 8 startups for third cohort of accelerator programme Atoms

0
Prayank Swaroop, Partner at Accel

Accel, a venture capital firm, introduced eight startups from the third cohort of its accelerator program called Atoms. This cohort, known as Atoms 3.0, focuses specifically on startups operating in the AI and Industry 5.0 sectors.

Atoms 3.0 supports outstanding pre-seed startups working within the realms of AI and Industry 5.0. Among the four AI startups in this cohort are Tune AI, offering a GenAI stack for enterprises; Skoob, providing a generative AI platform for reading; Meritic, serving as a storytelling co-pilot for financial planning and analysis; and Arivihan, which stands as India’s premier AI-based, fully automated learning platform. Additionally, the Atoms 3.0 cohort includes two startups operating within the Industry 5.0 domain: Spintly, an IoT platform tailored for smart buildings; and Asets, a multidisciplinary CAD, simulation, and engineering design platform.

Two startups from the cohort are currently in stealth mode.

The Atoms program leverages Accel’s extensive network and insights gained from collaborating with innovative companies to assist pre-seed founders at the early stages of their journey from 0 to 1.

The third iteration of the program, Atoms 3.0, transitioned from being sector-agnostic to thematic, concentrating on AI and Industry 5.0. Prayank Swaroop and Barath Shankar Subramanian, partners at Accel, oversee the AI and Industry 5.0 domains, respectively.

“The shift to a thematic programme design for Atoms 3.0 has enabled us to provide deeper, sector-focused mentorship for the startups,” said Prayank Swaroop, Partner at Accel. “We believe we have found the next wave of disruptors in AI and Industry 5.0.”

Atoms embodies Accel’s ongoing dedication to nurturing the most innovative founders right from the start of their entrepreneurial journey. Accel has played a pivotal role in the early success of many of India’s leading startups, including Flipkart, Freshworks, Swiggy, Urban Company, Zetwerk, and Cure.fit.

Participants in the cohort receive funding of up to $500,000 and gain access to perks valued at over $5 million from Accel’s network partners. They also benefit from personalized mentorship and have the chance to collaborate with a vibrant peer community comprising founders from previous Atoms cohorts and Accel’s extensive network of over 200 portfolio founders, industry buyers, and customers.

“The zero-to-one journey presents the most formidable challenge for entrepreneurs, as every decision can completely alter the trajectory of your business. Our mission with Atoms is to ensure founders have the best odds at success and can make those mission-critical decisions with insight from the world’s best domain experts. Meetings facilitated via the programme have helped the 3.0 founders onboard new, large customers,” said Barath Shankar Subramanian, Partner at Accel.

Ziyyara Education expands to UAE, offering customized online tutoring to 10,000 students

0

New Delhi, March 27, 2024 – Ziyyara, a leading online tuition platform of personalized online tutoring, announced its expansion into the United Arab Emirates (UAE), aiming to empower 10,000 students with high-quality, accessible education. This strategic move caters to the growing demand for flexible and effective learning solutions in the UAE’s diverse educational landscape. Ziyyara’s unique platform will connect students with a global pool of experienced and qualified tutors, ensuring they receive customized instruction tailored to their specific learning needs and curriculum requirements.

“We are thrilled to bring Ziyyara’s one-on-one tutoring experience to students in the UAE,” said Ms. Kavita Sharma, Co-Founder of Ziyyara Education. “Our platform provides students with the freedom and customization they need to succeed academically, meeting their changing needs in education today. With customized and personalized learning, flexibility in scheduling classes, and the option to choose a tutor of their own choice from our pool of tutors, every student can tailor their learning journey. Additionally, our seamless process allows for tutor changes without any hassle, and students can take classes anytime, anywhere, including a 30-minute free trial/demo class to experience our unique approach firsthand.”

Ziyyara recognizes the unique requirements of students in the UAE. The platform offers a variety of features designed to cater to this diverse population:

Given the variety of needs that students in the UAE have, Ziyyara provides a unique combination of functions. Students have access to a worldwide network of certified teachers, including native English speakers and UAE natives, who can ensure that their curriculum (CBSE, Cambridge, IB, etc.) and cultural background are compatible. Ziyyara goes beyond a strict curriculum, letting students customize their education by focusing on test preparation, arranging their schedules, or getting continuous academic help. Additionally, the online setting of the platform eliminates commuting and offers scheduling flexibility, enabling students to learn efficiently amid their hectic schedules.

Ziyyara continually expands its network of certified tutors to guarantee a flawless learning experience for its growing student base in the United Arab Emirates. This guarantees access to subject matter experts who can accommodate different learning preferences. Furthermore, Ziyyara upholds a stringent hiring procedure that includes background checks and eligibility standards, ensuring that all teachers provide top-notch online education.

Ziyyara’s expansion into the UAE marks a significant step forward in its mission to make personalized education accessible to all. The company is committed to leveraging technological advancements to create a future-proof learning platform that empowers students to thrive in the digital age.

About Ziyyara

Ziyyara is an online tuition platform that connects students with the best teachers with just one click. It is dedicated to providing personalized and accessible one-on-one tuition classes to students globally. Founded in September 2018 and headquartered in Delhi, Ziyyara focuses on quality of education. This involves expanding beyond school tutoring to cater to different learning needs such as IELTS, Languages, and Business English.

India’s tech-enabled preschool leader, Footprints, gear’s up for growth expansion in tier – 1 cities: Gurgaon, Bengaluru, and Delhi

0

New Delhi, India – March 27, 2024 – Footprints, India’s leading play school and preschool brand renowned for its high-quality early childhood education and childcare services, unveils its significant expansion strategy. The company aims to add up to 7 centers in Gurgaon and increase its capacity to over 2000 children, reaching 80 centers in Bengaluru and 100 in Delhi. Footprints, the top tech-enabled preschool brand in India, is about to go through a significant expansion. Their goal is to reach 350 centers by 2025 and secure a top 3 position with a projected revenue of ₹275 crore, concentrating on Tier-1 and 2 cities.

Footprints have identified strategic areas for growth, focusing on tier-1 and select tier-2 cities with a high density of urban families. These locations fit nicely with Footprints’ educational offerings and show a strong demand for early education. By the end of 2025, Footprints intends almost to quadruple its present footprint, going from 20 cities to nearly 40 cities in India.

“Considering the overwhelming trust and love we have received from these cities, we are happy that we could further strengthen our mission of establishing more centers in a short period,” said Raj Singhal, Co-Founder and CEO of Footprints. “With this expansion, we proudly say Footprints will be able to encourage and ensure a better preschool experience for many more children. We strongly believe in our pledge to provide outstanding early education and childcare services, and we will continue to use technology to increase parental involvement, satisfaction, and operational efficiency.”

A champion of innovation, Footprints constantly upgrades to meet the needs of modern families. Their investment in AI technology demonstrates their dedication to excellence. This ensures the highest quality and safety standards by enabling real-time monitoring of crucial factors, including lesson plan execution, cleanliness, and adult-child ratios.

Footprints has established a unique hybrid model that combines the franchise’s strengths and company-operated centers, ensuring unparalleled quality and scalability while remaining steadfast in the commitment to providing a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment for children, empowering parents to actively participate in their child’s growth journey.

About Footprints

Footprints is a distinguished Play School and preschool brand founded and operated by alumni from prestigious institutions like IIT and IIM. Footprints is dedicated to providing high-quality early education and childcare services. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by parents in balancing their busy lives with active participation in their child’s growth journey, Footprints integrates advanced technology through the Footprints ParentConnect App.

Over $447 million in funding raised by 22 Indian startups last week 

0

Indian startups maintained their steady fundraising momentum, with 22 startups raising over $447 million last week. Entrackr reported that this figure comprised nine growth-stage and 11 early-stage deals.

“Two startups kept their transaction details undisclosed,” the report mentioned. 

In the week of March 11-16, approximately 30 startups secured around $287 million in funding, with 20 early-stage and six growth-stage companies. Bengaluru-based startups led the funding with 14 deals, followed by Delhi-NCR with three deals. 

Among the growth-stage deals, nine startups raised $420.35 million in funding last week.

Healthtech firm Engrail secured the highest funding at $157 million. Following closely behind were the audio series platform Pocket FM, healthtech startup Ultrahuman, and content-to-commerce company The Good Glamm Group, which received $103 million, $35 million, and $30 million in funding, respectively.

Additionally, Atlan, a data collaboration software provider, Curefood, a cloud kitchen startup, Jumbotail, a B2B marketplace and retail platform, Dvara KGFS, an NBFC operating in remote rural areas, and SubKo Coffee, a coffee brand, also successfully raised funds last week.

Moreover, 11 early-stage startups collectively secured $27 million in funding.

Optimo Loan, an MSME-focused lending-tech startup, led the pack, followed by gaming startup Liquidnitro, boutique hotels firm Brij Hotels, and climate tech platform Sprih.

AI firm Databricks ‘doubling down’ on investment in India 

0

Databricks, a US-based data and AI company, announced on Friday its plans to increase investments in India due to the country’s rising demand for data and AI solutions. 

“To meet this growing demand, we’re doubling down on our investments in India, most recently with our launch of Databricks infrastructure on Google Cloud and the expansion of both our Indian go-to-market and R&D (research and development) teams,” the statement said. 

Databricks opened its R&D hub in Bengaluru last year. 

Databricks achieved over US$1.6 billion in revenue globally for its fiscal year ending January 31, marking a growth of over 50% year-on-year, propelled by rapid product innovation. Additionally, Databricks completed several acquisitions in its recent fiscal year, including MosaicML, Arcion, Okera, Einblick, and Rubicon. These acquisitions, along with Databricks’ investment and Series A funding of Mistral AI, have solidified the company’s position as the leading platform for enabling enterprises to leverage generative AI securely and with their proprietary data.

“Over the past two years, we have witnessed an increase in the demand for data and AI solutions across India from all industries, including FSI, retail, manufacturing, and digital natives. This remarkable momentum not only highlights the enterprise AI boom in India but also reinforces our commitment to empowering local businesses with data and AI capabilities,” said Anil Bhasin, Vice President, and Country Manager for Databricks India.

“India is a key market for us, and we’re pleased that so many of its leading enterprises and tech-driven startups have chosen Databricks to support their data and AI journey. To meet this growing demand, we’re doubling down on our investments in India, most recently with our launch of Databricks infrastructure on Google Cloud and the expansion of both our Indian go-to-market and R&D teams. We look forward to helping even more Indian customers use AI securely, with their own data, on our Data Intelligence Platform,” said Ed Lenta, SVP and General Manager for Databricks in Asia Pacific and Japan.

Co-living startup Union Living to launch 500 beds across Mumbai and Pune

0

Union Living, a leading co-living startup, proudly introduces its innovative Build-to-Suit (BTS) co-living housing properties in Mumbai and Pune. These new properties include ‘Southside’ with 200 beds in Mahalakshmi, Mumbai, ‘Terra’ with 150 beds in Juhu, Mumbai, and 150 studio apartments in Koregaon Park, Pune.

Union Living is committed to enhancing the co-living experience by offering modern, secure, and personalized accommodations. This venture marks a significant milestone in the co-living industry, providing tailored living spaces for students and young professionals.

Founded by Rishab Soni and Parth Soni in 2020, Union Living is expanding its portfolio by adding these new beds. By June 2024, the company plans to increase its operational co-living beds to 1,500 across nine properties in Mumbai and Pune.

Catering to students and working professionals alike, the company also offers short-term stay options. Rental accommodation starts at Rs 20,000 per bed and can go up to Rs 45,000 per bed.

“We are thrilled to introduce first-of-its-kind build-to-suit co-living accommodation in Mumbai,” said Parth Soni, Co-Founder of Union Living.

“These BTS properties have been meticulously designed in-house by a dedicated team of architects, in collaboration with a panel of students, to ensure that their specific needs and preferences are seamlessly integrated into the design,” added Parth.

Rishabh Soni, Co-Founder of Union Living, said, “Build-to-suit properties offer superior space utilization and custom-designed layouts, enhancing functionality and efficiency. Such properties can accommodate additional amenities and features that enhance the user experience. With long-term lease agreements, build-to-suit projects provide stability and predictability for rental income. Overall, they maximize space utilization, design flexibility, and financial benefits for operators, investors and property owners.”

Union Living’s BTS properties are set to launch in May 2024 in Mahalakshmi, with plans to secure an additional 1,000 beds soon. These developments highlight the company’s dedication to expanding its presence and improving the co-living experience throughout Mumbai.

The demand for co-living spaces and build-to-suit properties continues to rise due to urbanization, increasing student and professional populations, and shifting lifestyle preferences.

Union Living’s innovative approach to co-living accommodation demonstrates its commitment to providing exceptional living experiences tailored to the evolving needs of residents today. By blending quality construction, thoughtful design, and personalized services, Union Living aims to redefine co-living benchmarks in Mumbai and beyond.

Cashfree launches risk management and fraud prevention tool RiskShield 

0
Akash Sinha, CEO & cofounder, Cashfree Payments

Bengaluru-based payment aggregator Cashfree Payments has introduced a new tool named ‘RiskShield‘ to manage risks instantly. The company asserts that this solution can slash fraudulent activities by 40%.

This online payment platform is tailored for merchants. It empowers users to block transactions associated with certain mobile numbers, email addresses, IP addresses, Card BIN, UPI handles, and card numbers. This enhances risk management and ensures compliance with fraud prevention standards.

Merchants can also set limits on how often and how much a customer can transact within certain time frames. 

“This product is a result of years of Cashfree Payments’ research and analysis of high risk transactions into a set of tools that merchants can now use as a complete risk management solution through which they can curb cybercrime,” chief executive officer Akash Sinha said. 

This system harnesses the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms throughout its merchant network. By recognizing suspicious transaction patterns, it shields merchants from financial losses and legal entanglements. Moreover, it aids businesses in reducing chargebacks and disputes.

Ramkumar Venkatesan, chief technology officer, Cashfree Payments said, “Businesses either completely neglect investment in risk and fraud detection tools or even if they have the tools, they lack real-time payment-blocking features and suggested rules for implementation.” 

As per the company’s statement, merchants who utilize Cashfree Payments’ FlowWise platform introduced last year can seamlessly integrate RiskShield. This integration aids in preventing fraudulent transactions across different payment aggregators.

The company, supported by Y Combinator and State Bank of India, observed a substantial growth in its operational revenue, marking a 75% increase to Rs 614 crore in FY23. However, its recorded loss surged to Rs 133 crore in FY23, a significant leap from Rs 3 crore in the previous year.

Cashfree derives its revenue from processing fees levied on its payment gateway services rendered to online merchants.

Footprints – Pioneering childcare programs, a game-changer for parents

0
Mr. Raj Singhal, Co-founder & CEO of Footprints

In today’s digital age, childcare centers face the delicate task of ensuring both security and privacy for children and their families. Footprints, a prominent childcare provider, benefits from the invaluable insights of its Co-founder & CEO, Mr. Raj Singhal. This article explores Footprints’ innovative methods, highlighting the valuable contributions of its co-founder in achieving a delicate balance between safeguarding children and respecting parental privacy.

Footprints provides various programs. These programs have different prices. What makes the prices vary, and what affects the decisions on pricing?

We provide diverse programs for various ages and needs. Daycare programs for young kids usually have different fees compared to preschool programs for older ones. Also, after-school programs may come with extra charges. Pricing depends on factors like location, operational expenses, and the program selected. Despite these differences, we maintain competitive rates while ensuring top-notch quality.

Could you please elaborate on the inspiration behind the slogan “Nurturing Young Minds” used by Footprints?

The slogan “Nurturing Young Minds” reflects our fundamental belief in providing a secure and dynamic setting where children can learn, discover, and evolve. It symbolizes our brand’s commitment to guiding young minds during their crucial developmental stages.

Research indicates that 90% of a child’s brain development occurs by the age of 5, underlining the significance of our approach. Our selected curriculum emphasizes active learning, laying the foundation for children to enhance their learning abilities from the earliest stages. We recognize that what we nurture today will shape tomorrow, hence why “nurturing young minds” perfectly encapsulates our mission.

What upcoming technologies are expected to have an impact on the childcare industry within the next 5 to 10 years, according to Footprints’ prioritization of technology integration?

We understand the potential for technology to transform the childcare sector. We are dedicated to remaining at the forefront of technological progress to consistently enhance children’s learning and care experiences. Several emerging technologies on the horizon include:

  • Interactive Learning Tools: Age-appropriate educational applications and games aligned with the curriculum can boost engagement and learning outcomes in classrooms.
  • Wearable Technology: Wearables capable of monitoring vital signs, sleep patterns, and activity levels offer valuable insights into children’s well-being, allowing for personalized care.
  • Virtual Reality (VR): VR experiences provide a safe and immersive platform for children to explore new environments and concepts, stimulating curiosity and learning.

Reflecting on the past, what were some significant hurdles that Footprints encountered during its initial stages, and what strategies were employed to surmount them?

During our early years, Footprints encountered typical startup challenges like raising funds, establishing brand recognition, and assembling a strong team. To overcome these obstacles, we remained determined, carefully planned our strategies, and emphasized delivering high-quality services. By focusing on child safety, well-being, and a comprehensive curriculum, we earned the trust of parents, which drove organic growth and expansion.

Moreover, in the childcare sector, there’s no room for trial and error due to its sensitive nature. We extensively researched how to create the best environment for children’s growth, strategically cater to their needs, and instill confidence in parents. Building trust proved to be another significant challenge.

What type of training do Footprints employees receive to ensure they are capable of managing emergencies proficiently?

Footprints places great importance on ensuring staff readiness for emergencies. All employees undergo thorough training in first aid, CPR, and procedures for emergency evacuations. This equips them to effectively manage typical childhood emergencies, guaranteeing the safety and welfare of the children. Regular drills and simulations are conducted to uphold staff competence in emergency response procedures.

What are some fun activities that children usually engage in at Footprints?

Our curriculum is carefully crafted to nurture each child’s individual potential. We utilize the renowned HighScope Approach and a KDI chart tracking 58 key development indicators. This detailed framework ensures that every activity, from monthly plans to daily routines, is purposefully designed to address specific developmental milestones.

A central feature of our program is “Choice Time,” where classrooms are transformed into lively activity centers. Teachers organize four different corners based on students’ interests, empowering children to choose and explore activities that intrigue them.

In addition to “Choice Time,” our curriculum offers a diverse range of experiences. Children can express their creativity through dance and drawing activities. We also promote outdoor sessions to foster interaction with nature. Storytime sessions cultivate a love for language and literacy. These activities collectively provide a comprehensive and engaging learning experience.

How does Footprints maintain a balance between security measures and respecting parents’ privacy regarding the use of CCTV monitoring?

We understand the significance of security and privacy. Live CCTV streaming enables parents to observe their child’s activities at the center, with controlled access to safeguard the privacy of other children and staff. Parents are briefed on camera placements and recording limitations. Footprints prioritizes data security by implementing robust measures to safeguard children’s information.

amã Stays & Trails reaches a portfolio of 150-plus bungalows 

0

Indian Hotel Company’s premium homestay offering, amã Stays & Trails, has achieved a milestone by adding over 150 bungalows to its portfolio, with 100 of them currently operational.

Deepika Rao, executive vice-president, New Businesses and Hotel Openings, IHCL, “amã Stays & Trails has been on an accelerated pace of growth with 60 signings and 40 bungalow openings till date this year, taking the portfolio to 150+ bungalows across unique and off-beat destinations in India. We also marked the 100th bungalow in operation with the opening of Whispering Pines in Bhimtal, Uttarakhand.”

She added, “amã taps into the growing trend of experiential travel offering authentic and immersive local experiences as the consumers opt for new formats in leisure and is well poised to scale in the homestay segment.”

amã Stays & Trails offers a curated selection of historic havelis, heritage villas, colonial houses, plantation bungalows, and charming residences for private and exclusive stays. 

Starting with nine heritage bungalows in Coorg and Chikmagalur, the collection has expanded to 156 bungalows, with 56 more in development. These accommodations are situated in picturesque locations such as Lonavala, Madh Island, Alibag, Goa, Trivandrum, Munnar, Alleppey, Manali, and Shimla, among others. Each bungalow is strategically located near an IHCL hotel in its region, ensuring guests receive safe and personalized service. amã Stays & Trails has a presence in 15 states across India.