India’s deeptech ecosystem is witnessing a major leap forward with Probus Smart Things 2025 securing $5 million in a Series A1 funding round led by Unicorn India Ventures. The Mumbai-based startup, known for its smart grid innovations, aims to modernize the country’s power distribution infrastructure through cutting-edge AI and data-driven solutions.
Probus Smart Things 2025: Pioneering Smart Grid Solutions
Established with a vision to digitize India’s electricity distribution grid, Probus Smart Things 2025 has developed advanced communication technologies and data analytics tools designed to reduce distribution losses and enhance efficiency. The recent funding will be allocated to scaling its communication technology stack across multiple smart grid and renewable energy applications, as well as integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its patented networking solutions.
Since its previous funding round in 2023, Probus has demonstrated remarkable growth, achieving a tenfold increase in revenue and building an order pipeline valued at ₹400 crore. The company has also filed four new patents, tripled its team size, and inaugurated a state-of-the-art Innovation Center in Noida, with additional project offices in Mumbai and Ahmedabad.
Unicorn India Ventures: A Testament to Commitment
This funding round marks Unicorn India Ventures’ fourth investment in Probus since 2021, reflecting the venture capital firm’s strong belief in the startup’s potential. Anil Joshi, Managing Partner at Unicorn India Ventures, stated, “This is our fourth round of investment in Probus as we believe that the company has emerged as a disruptor in the last-mile power distribution ecosystem.”
The Rise of Deeptech in India
Probus’s success is emblematic of a broader trend in India’s startup ecosystem, where deeptech ventures are gaining significant traction. In 2023, deeptech startups in India raised approximately $10 billion, marking a substantial increase from previous years. This surge is indicative of the ecosystem’s maturity, with a notable increase in startups securing Series A funding and beyond.
Artificial intelligence, in particular, has been a major focus, accounting for over 80% of deeptech funding in India in 2023. This trend is driven by enterprise adoption of generative AI tools and innovations across various industries. The Indian government’s investment of $1.25 billion in the “IndiaAI Mission” further underscores the nation’s commitment to bolstering its AI infrastructure and public sector applications.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the positive momentum, deeptech startups in India face challenges, particularly in securing funding during early stages. While the average seed cheque size has grown 5.3 times between 2016 and 2023, there remains a gap when compared to global counterparts. Additionally, India’s deeptech ecosystem, despite being the third-largest globally, ranks sixth due to funding gaps and weaker R&D infrastructure.
However, strategic policies and investments are fueling momentum. The Indian government’s proactive approach, coupled with a thriving IT sector valued at $250 billion and a substantial talent pool of nearly 5 million programmers, positions the country favorably in the global AI race.
Practical Takeaways for Business Leaders
- Invest in Innovation: The success of Probus Smart Things 2025 highlights the importance of investing in innovative solutions that address critical infrastructure challenges.
- Leverage Government Initiatives: Aligning business strategies with government missions, such as the “IndiaAI Mission,” can unlock new opportunities and funding avenues.
- Focus on AI Integration: Integrating AI into existing technologies can lead to significant efficiency gains and open new market segments.
- Build Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with venture capital firms and leveraging their expertise can accelerate growth and scalability.
Probus Smart Things 2025’s recent funding milestone is a testament to the potential of deeptech startups in India. As the nation continues to invest in advanced technologies and infrastructure, businesses that prioritize innovation and strategic partnerships are poised to lead in the evolving landscape.
