January Newsletter

Exploring Fintech Frontiers: Insights from the Thought Leadership Round Table Series

In collaboration with TiE Mumbai , Cisco for Startups recently concluded a Thought Leadership Round Table Series on January 31st, 2024, exploring the future of Fintech Frontiers. The event brought together top founders and visionaries to dissect India’s current Fintech and BFSI ecosystem, providing a comprehensive understanding of the forces shaping today's financial terrain. Attendees had the opportunity to uncover emerging trends exploring the technological and innovation frontiers driving future growth in the industry. The series also focused on building a stronger ecosystem, offering actionable insights to nurture a vibrant and sustainable Fintech environment.

Cisco for Startups at NASSCOM AI Strategies Summit

Cisco for Startups actively participated in the AI Strategies Summit organized by nasscom at the The Leela Palace Bengaluru , on January 24th, 2023. Kavya Kathiresan, Business Leader for Partnerships at Meraki, delivered a compelling presentation, providing valuable insights into Meraki's unique use case, strategic plans, and an analysis of advantages and challenges. Dhruv Sud , Co-Founder of Cloudphysician and a distinguished Cisco For Startups alumnus, shared insights into CloudPhysician's cloud-based remote critical health monitoring services. He highlighted Cisco's pivotal role in refining and scaling its technical capabilities as a health-tech startup.

Cisco's Circular Economy Vision for Sustainability

Tim Coogan , Senior Vice President, US Commercial, guides us through this blog detailing Cisco's commitment to sustainability. Learn how Cisco spearheads the shift towards a circular economy, incorporating design principles, implementing recycling programs, leveraging IoT for resource optimization, and actively collaborating to combat e-waste. Discover the innovative steps Cisco is taking to reduce environmental impact and join the movement for a more sustainable future. Read the full article here

QNu Labs Bags $6.5 Mn to Provide Quantum Technology-Based Cybersecurity Solutions

Quantum-safe cybersecurity technology firm QNu Labs , a Cisco for Startups alumnus, has secured $6.5 million in its pre-series A1 funding round, led by Ashish Kacholia of Lucky Investments. The funding also included participation from investment fund Speciale Invest and a prominent family fund. Founded in 2016 at IIT Madras Research Park, QNu Labs specializes in quantum and post-quantum cryptography solutions. Utilizing patented technology, the startup addresses confidentiality and privacy concerns in the face of modern cyber threats.

Astrome Tech Pvt Ltd Signs Agreement with the Army for Tactical LAN Radio Systems Deployment

In a significant move towards self-reliance in the defense sector under the Make In India initiative, the Army has contracted Bangalore-based start-up Astrome Tech Pvt Ltd, a Cisco for Startups alumnus, to procure the 'Tactical LAN Radio.' This indigenously developed radio aims to provide reliable and interception-free communication in challenging terrains. The contract, signed in the presence of Lt Gen MV Suchindra Kumar, the Vice Chief of Army Staff, marks the second procurement through Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), reinforcing the military's commitment to supporting indigenous innovations.

Yellow.ai Deploys 30% of Global Generative AI bots Domestically

Cisco for Startups alumni Yellow.ai deployed approximately 120 GenAI bots globally this fiscal year, with around 30% of them in India. In the US, GenAI focuses on cost-effective customer support, while Indian businesses leverage it for revenue growth, lead generation, and sales support. Yellow.ai's efficient use of GenAI has facilitated a strategic approach to hiring despite a 13% reduction in the workforce in early 2023. With 680 employees, mainly in India, the company anticipates a 60% growth in the Indian market, targeting $20-30 million in revenue next year, contributing to a global run rate of $60-70 million.

Green Dialogue Series

The upcoming second installment of this series is scheduled for the 12th of February, 2024, focusing on the theme of "Liquid Assets: Smart Water Management Solutions". This session is designed to equip participants with an encompassing understanding of the complex challenges within smart water management. Furthermore, it will highlight its transformative potential to revolutionize industries and promote sustainability.

Sign up for the session here