Access to markets and technology has improved, which has aided in the growth of the Northeastern States startup ecosystem. The viability of these startups in the area depends on how quickly major infrastructure and connectivity projects are implemented. Although 634 startups in the area have received recognition from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) to date, the devil is in the details. 499 of these startups (or 79 percent of all startups) are located in Assam, while the remaining 21 percent are dispersed across the remaining seven states: 68 in Manipur, 17 in Meghalaya, 47 in Tripura, 21 in Nagaland, barely 6 in Mizoram, and 8 in Sikkim.

Through the North East Venture Fund (NEVF), the North East Development Finance Corporation Limited has so far distributed Rs 41.14 crore to 22 startups, and Rs 74.76 crore has been committed in principle for 36 applications. It is the innovative ideas that hold the key to success, even though the ecosystem aids in turning the ideas into a successful entrepreneurial endeavour. Although digital technology can help aspiring business owners, it has also created a plethora of options for them to test out fresh Start-up concepts through the creation of apps. Digital music streaming, digital marketing to increase demand and sales, and bettering business-to-business, business-to-consumer, and consumer-to-business communication have encouraged young entrepreneurs to create new businesses, some of which have taken off immediately for an organic approach to developing markets. They have proven that they can locate the niche markets for cutting-edge items. This issue is devoted to such vibrant startups that have considerably improved the startup ecosystem in the country.