New Stage for Founders at Disrupt 2025 Focuses on IPO and Exit Strategies
The event showcased 200 startups and featured discussions on the growing trend of secondary deals among Indian investors, with 41% favoring this approach. Indian Investors and Market Trends The event also highlighted trends in the Indian startup ecosystem, noting that 41% of Indian investors now prefer secondary deals. Furthermore, six startups joined the Unicorn Club in 2025, achieving valuations of over $1 billion.
TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 brought together a diverse group of entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders from around the globe to discuss the future of startups. Held from October 13-15, 2026, the event showcased a variety of panels, including a significant focus on exit strategies for founders. This particular discussion provided insights into mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and initial public offering (IPO) preparations, offering guidance for startups aiming for successful exits.
Focus on Exit Strategies
One of the central themes at Disrupt 2025 was the exploration of exit strategies, which are crucial for founders looking to maximize the value of their startups. Discussions centered on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and the preparation processes for initial public offerings (IPOs), reflecting a growing trend among startups to consider these paths for expansion and exit.
M&A and IPOs were emphasized as viable and strategic options for startups at different stages of growth. These strategies not only provide a roadmap for founders to exit their ventures but also highlight the potential for scaling and expansion through strategic partnerships or public offerings.
Indian Investors and Market Trends
The event also highlighted trends in the Indian startup ecosystem, noting that 41% of Indian investors now prefer secondary deals. This preference indicates a shift in investment strategies, as investors seek to gain liquidity and returns through secondary markets rather than waiting for traditional exits.
Several acquisitions were spotlighted, underscoring the dynamic nature of the market. Notably, Clensta was acquired by Florida Beauty Labs, while Reliance made an offer to acquire Dunzo. Additionally, Reliance's acquisition of Haptik for INR 200 crore in 2019 and Mensa Brands' acquisition of India Lifestyle Network in 2022 were discussed as examples of successful M&A activities.
IPOs and the Unicorn Club
In terms of initial public offerings, 18 startups managed to raise a total of INR 41,000 crore through IPOs, demonstrating a robust interest and confidence in public markets as a viable exit strategy. The success of these IPOs reflects a broader trend of startups leveraging public markets for growth and investor returns.
Furthermore, six startups joined the Unicorn Club in 2025, achieving valuations of over $1 billion. This milestone highlights the potential for high growth and significant valuation increases within the startup ecosystem, encouraging other ventures to aspire to similar achievements.
Showcasing Innovation at Disrupt 2025
TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 served as a platform for innovation and entrepreneurship, with 200 startups selected from thousands of applications to showcase their ideas. The top 20 finalists had the opportunity to pitch their projects live over three days, engaging with more than 250 industry leaders who attended the event.
Isabelle Johannessen, who leads the Startup Battlefield Program, played a pivotal role in scouting founders from over 99 countries. Her efforts ensured a diverse representation of ideas and innovations, contributing to the event's global perspective and reach.
Through panels, pitches, and networking opportunities, TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 emphasized the importance of strategic planning for exits, showcasing how M&A and IPOs can serve as effective pathways for founders aiming to achieve their business goals.
"TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 has once again proven to be an essential gathering for those at the forefront of the startup world, offering insights into the evolving strategies that can lead to successful exits," noted an industry leader in attendance.