India’s battle against cancer is witnessing a powerful new ally: a rapidly evolving ecosystem of innovative startups. Confronted by the stark reality of over 1.4 million new cancer cases in 2023, a number projected to surge by 2030, the urgency for accessible and scalable cancer care solutions has ignited a wave of entrepreneurial activity. Notably, venture capitalists are keenly aware of this critical need, injecting significant capital into this promising sector.
Fueling Growth: The Investment Landscape
Over the past year, cancer-focused startups in India have collectively raised nearly $100 million, according to Entrackr data. An overwhelming majority of this funding has materialized in 2025 alone, underscoring the accelerating momentum. This trend aligns with a broader boom in India’s healthtech sector, which attracted a record $1.13 billion in investments in 2024 and has already secured $775 million in 2025. The largest individual funding round went to MOC Cancer Care & Research Centre, a network of community cancer centers, which secured $18 million. Following closely were OneCell Diagnostics and Complement1, a US-headquartered startup with Indian roots, each raising $16 million. Complement1’s unique “CoActive Coaching” model offers daily personalized support for individuals navigating cancer.
India’s Pioneering Solutions Across the Cancer Care Continuum
Indian startups are tackling critical gaps across the entire spectrum of cancer care. In diagnostics, companies like NIRAMAI, OncoStem, and PredOmix are harnessing the power of AI, genomics, and thermal imaging to develop early and non-invasive detection methods, crucial for improving patient outcomes. The therapeutics landscape is also buzzing with innovation, as companies such as Avammune, Immuneel Therapeutics, and Zumutor Biologics are developing cutting-edge immunotherapies and targeted treatments. The burgeoning field of cell and gene therapy is represented by companies like ImmunoACT and NexCar19, striving to make advanced CAR-T cell therapies more accessible in India.
Improving Access and Patient Experience
Recognizing the challenges in care delivery, startups like Everhope Oncology and Karkinos Healthcare are establishing tech-enabled clinics to enhance access and patient experience. Furthermore, care navigation platforms such as Onco.com and ZenOnco.io are empowering patients by providing comprehensive information and support in exploring treatment options, integrating both medical and holistic approaches.
The Rise of Precision Oncology
Genomics-driven startups, including MedGenome and 4baseCare, are at the forefront of precision oncology. By leveraging DNA-based diagnostics, they are enabling more personalized and effective cancer treatments tailored to individual patient profiles. The Indian cancer diagnostics market is projected for substantial growth, estimated to reach $14.2 billion by 2033 from $7.3 billion in 2024 (IMARC Group), indicating the immense potential in this domain.
Looking Ahead: Untapped Potential and Future Growth
While the recent surge in funding and innovation is encouraging, the Indian cancer startup ecosystem is still in its nascent stages. The significant investment in Complement1, despite its unconventional approach, highlights the diverse range of solutions attracting attention. As cancer care infrastructure expands beyond major metropolitan areas and promising therapies demonstrate tangible results, the sector is poised for even greater investment and impact. With anticipated government support and the vast unmet needs in cancer care, the “big deals” in this crucial space are likely yet to come, offering hope to millions affected by this disease.
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