Bhubaneswar: In a landmark move to accelerate digital transformation for startups, the Government of Odisha has entered into a strategic partnership with PhonePe, India’s leading digital payments platform. The collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aims to empower startups registered under Startup Odisha with cutting-edge payment solutions, seamless onboarding, and advanced business technology services. 
Odisha Government Joins Hands with PhonePe to Boost Digital Growth for Startups


The MoU was signed at the O-Hub Building in Bhubaneswar by Kamaljit Das, Chief Administrative Officer of Startup Odisha, and Yuvraj Singh Shekhawat, Chief Business Officer (Merchant Business) at PhonePe Private Limited. This partnership underscores Odisha’s commitment to fostering a digitally inclusive and innovation-driven startup ecosystem.  

Key Highlights of the Odisha Govt-PhonePe Partnership  

1. Seamless Digital Payment Solutions for Startups  

Under this agreement, startups registered with Startup Odisha will gain access to PhonePe’s advanced payment technology solutions, enabling them to:  
  • Accept UPI, credit/debit card, and wallet payments effortlessly.  
  • Streamline transactions with secure, fast, and hassle-free digital payments.  
  • Enhance customer experience with smooth checkout processes.  

2. Business Growth & Marketing Support 

PhonePe will provide marketing and promotional assistance to eligible startups, helping them:  
  • Increase visibility through targeted campaigns.  
  • Leverage data-driven insights to optimize sales strategies.  
  • Access exclusive merchant offers to attract more customers.  

3. Faster Onboarding & Compliance Support  

Startups referred by Startup Odisha will receive priority onboarding support from PhonePe, ensuring:  
  • Simplified KYC and verification processes.  
  • Quick integration with PhonePe’s merchant platform.  
  • Compliance with RBI’s digital payment guidelines.  

A Visionary Step Towards a Cashless & Tech-Driven Economy

This collaboration aligns with the vision of Hemant Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary, MSME Department, Government of Odisha, who has been instrumental in forging national and global partnerships to strengthen Odisha’s startup ecosystem.  
Sharma emphasized, 
“This partnership with PhonePe is a game-changer for Odisha’s startups. By integrating advanced digital payment solutions, we are not only enhancing operational efficiency but also positioning our startups for exponential growth in a competitive market.”  

Why This Partnership Matters for Odisha’s Startup Ecosystem? 

  • Boosts Ease of Doing Business – Startups can now leverage PhonePe’s robust infrastructure to simplify transactions and reduce cash dependency.  
  • Encourages Innovation – Access to fintech solutions will help startups experiment with new business models.  
  • Enhances Competitiveness – With digital payment adoption, Odisha’s startups can compete on a national and global scale.  
  • Strengthens Investor Confidence – A tech-enabled ecosystem attracts more venture capital and funding opportunities.  

What Startups Can Expect Next?  

  • Workshops & Training: PhonePe and Startup Odisha will conduct digital payment literacy programs for entrepreneurs.  
  • Exclusive Discounts: Startups may receive reduced transaction fees and other financial benefits.  
  • Expansion Opportunities: Integration with PhonePe opens doors to larger customer bases across India.  

Odisha’s Rise as a Leading Startup Hub  

With this strategic alliance, Odisha is reinforcing its position among India’s top startup destinations. By bridging the gap between fintech and entrepreneurship, the state is paving the way for a cashless, scalable, and future-ready business environment.  
As more startups embrace PhonePe’s digital solutions, Odisha’s entrepreneurial landscape is set to witness unprecedented growth, innovation, and economic prosperity.