70–120 start-ups expected to go public by 2030, says Aon report

The report also mentioned that 25 Indian start-ups have filed DRHPs for a public offering.

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Kesavan A N

Despite a difficult equity market, Indian start-ups are eager to hit the markets with the latest Startup Conclave Report from research firm Aon suggesting that 70 and 120 start-ups are expected to go public by 2030.According to the report, founders are optimistic about the funding environment improving in 2026 and there has already been 131 venture capital deals in January 2026 as against 93 in January 2025, it added.Lower Operational CostsThe report also mentioned that 25 Indian start-ups have filed DRHPs for a public offering.Moreover, the growth in funding to start-ups was in tandem with the movement towards tier-II and tier-III cities, owing to government support and lower operational costs. Apart from funding, the study also included an AI sensitivity study conducted across 18 start-up organisations which revealed that the AI integration in entry-level (60 to 72 per cent) and mid-level (40-56 per cent) sectors was higher than in senior-level sectors (23-39 per cent). Shifting StandardsThe report also focused on employee expectations and their shifting standards. Flexibility and emotional well-being have emerged key considerations apart from monetary benefits, the report said.In 2026, start-ups are expected to deliver salary increases of around 9.7 per cent, reflecting only a moderate increase but remaining competitive in attracting talent.(With inputs from Intern Mahalakshmi G)Published on May 22, 2026