In 2026, Indian startups are embracing public listings with a focus on strong fundamentals, profitability, and low cash burn to attract public market investors. Following a record-breaking year in 2025, where 21 Indian startups collectively raised ₹41,248 Cr from public markets, the momentum for new-age tech companies going public remains strong.
Twenty-one startups have filed their Draft Red Herring Prospectuses (DRHPs) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), while over 23 are finalizing IPO plans. The surge in IPOs is supported by macroeconomic growth and SEBI reforms, including simplified DRHP filings and flexible employee stock option (ESOP) rules.
Startup founders are committing to long-term growth strategies, aiming to add adjacent profit pools to their businesses. Public markets are rewarding companies prioritizing profits, sustainable growth, and governance.
Despite a mixed performance in early 2026 listings, the IPO momentum continues with more startups gearing up to go public.
Source: Inc42 Media