The Indian startup ecosystem has the attention of the whole world. Its potential is attracting major players from around the world as they queue up to nurture these magic beans, hoping to ride the explosive growth of the bean stalk. After Qualcomm’s $150 Mn investment plan, it’s Beijing-based Apus Group that plans to invest $15 Mn (INR 100 crore) in Indian startups.
“The group will offer support to these companies via programmes focused on developing and building a positive ecosystem for their growth. These programmes will range from providing incubation to free Apus traffic,” the company said in a statement.
The shortlisted startups will also have access to tools and experts helping them to enhance decision making capabilities. The company will offer them an open platform and provide them with the right guidance and mentorship, until they are thoroughly exposed to their target markets.
Acknowledging the potential of the Indian startup ecosystem, Li Tao, co-founder and Ceo of Apus Group said, “We had similar situation in China three to five years ago and India represents an important market for us. We are looking to further strengthen our presence as we evaluate more partnership opportunities with more firms as we look to strengthen our relationship with India.”
Founded in June 2014, Apus Group, is an Android application development company and one of the top 10 developers on Google Play. It has five popular Android apps that span across launcher, browsers, booster, flashlight and a messaging center in its portfolio. The company claims to have 200 Mn users worldwide and aims to target 500 Mn by the end of 2016.
Last month, Apus partnered with mobile advertising platform InMobi to establish a larger footprint in India. InMobi will provide local expertise to Apus to help them understand the unique Indian app market and will aid in user acquisition programs including providing guidance to localize the Apus app experience and acquiring the right talent. Apus aims to propel its 25 Mn Indian userbase to 80 Mn by 2016, with this alliance.
