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Cancer Care Startups in India: Transforming the Healthcare Landscape

Cancer care startups in India are rapidly progressing, aiming to fill vital gaps in detection, treatment, and care delivery. With over 1.4 million new cancer cases documented in 2023, and projections indicating a steep rise by 2030, the urgency for scalable and accessible cancer care has never been clearer. Venture capitalists are taking notice of this pressing issue.

In the past year, cancer-focused startups have successfully raised nearly $100 million, according to research by Startup Superb. A significant portion of this funding was gathered in 2025 alone. This surge is part of a larger trend within the healthtech sector, which saw an unprecedented $1.13 billion in investments in 2024, and has already amassed $775 million in 2025.

Significant Funding Achievements

One of the most noteworthy funding achievements belongs to MOC Cancer Care & Research Centre, which manages a network of community cancer centres, raised $18 million—the largest single funding round in this sector. Following closely, OneCell Diagnostics secured $16 million, alongside Complement1, a US-based startup established by Karan Bajaj, who is a former co-founder of WhiteHat Jr., also raising $16 million. Complement1, supported by Blume Ventures and Owl Ventures, presents a model of “CoActive Coaching” that offers daily one-on-one support for cancer patients, survivors, and those at elevated risk.

Other significant funding rounds encompass Immuneel Therapeutics (led by Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw) and Avammune Therapeutics, both securing $12 million. Numerous additional startups have also attracted investments over the last year, including Everhope Oncology, 4baseCare, ErlySign, OnCare, and Exsure.

Technological Innovations in Cancer Diagnostics

Startups focusing on cancer diagnostics are utilising technologies like AI, genomics, and thermal imaging for early and non-invasive detection. Key players in this field include NIRAMAI, OncoStem, and PredOmix. In the therapeutic domain, companies such as Avammune, Immuneel, and Zumutor Biologics are at the forefront of developing next-generation immunotherapies and targeted treatments.

Advancements in Cell and Gene Therapy

The emergence of cell and gene therapies is also apparent, with firms such as ImmunoACT and NexCar19 making significant progress in delivering affordable CAR-T cell therapies within India.

Enhancing Cancer Care Delivery

In terms of cancer care delivery, startups like Everhope Oncology and Karkinos Healthcare are establishing tech-enabled clinics to enhance access and improve patient experiences. On the care navigation side, platforms such as Onco.com and ZenOnco.io assist patients in investigating treatment options through a combination of medical and integrative care.

Additionally, genomics-driven startups like MedGenome and 4baseCare are leading the precision oncology field by employing DNA-based diagnostics to facilitate personalised cancer treatment.

Market Growth and Future Prospects

The Indian cancer diagnostics market is anticipated to increase from $7.3 billion in 2024 to $14.2 billion by 2033 (IMARC Group). With ongoing innovation across diagnostics, therapeutics, and care models, this ecosystem is well-positioned for sustained growth and impact.

Interestingly, one of the largest funding rounds has been associated with Complement1, despite its uncertain foundational premise when evaluated against scientific evidence and established methods. Nonetheless, vast potential remains for increased funding as cancer care and relevant facilities are increasingly recognised as vital across a broader range of regions, beyond merely the major urban centres. Significant government initiatives can be expected soon.

As certain therapies and pathways demonstrate promising results, they are likely to draw more interest. The potential within this area has only just begun to be realised, and major deals are anticipated to arrive soon. The demand for advancements in cancer care is acute and pressing.

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