Marwari Catalysts Group (MCats), India’s leading accelerator focused on founders from Tier II and Tier III cities, has officially announced the launch of Thrive 10.0. This latest edition of their flagship venture-building programme marks a strategic pivot toward two of India’s most critical sectors: Defence Technology (DefenceTech) and Agricultural Technology (AgriTech).
As India pushes for self-reliance and technological sovereignty, Thrive 10.0 is designed to provide early and growth-stage founders with the mentorship, industry networks, and structural support needed to scale high-impact solutions.
A Strategic Bet on National Priorities
The launch arrives at a watershed moment for the Indian economy. Fueled by a 75% domestic procurement mandate, India’s DefenceTech market is on a trajectory to reach $19 billion by 2030. Simultaneously, the AgriTech sector is undergoing a digital transformation, with projections exceeding $34 billion by 2027 as precision farming and AI-driven supply chains become central to national food security.
“With the Indian government’s ‘Year of Reforms’ 2025 providing unprecedented policy support and a record $1 billion+ in venture capital flowing into DefenceTech and AgriTech in the first half of the year alone, there has never been a more lucrative or strategically significant time for founders,” said Sushil Sharma, CEO & Founder of Marwari Catalysts Group.
What Thrive 10.0 Offers Founders
Thrive 10.0 isn’t just an accelerator; it is a comprehensive ecosystem play. Selected startups will gain access to:
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Corporate-Linked Pathway: A seamless integration into industry networks and corporate partnerships for real-world business opportunities.
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Sector-Specific Mentorship: Practical guidance from experienced founders and experts who understand the nuances of defense indigenization and agricultural cycles.
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Structured Venture-Building: A curriculum tailored to help move from prototype to scalable, sustainable business models.
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Ecosystem Exposure: Access to a network of over 100+ early-stage ventures and a SEBI-approved CAT-I Alternative Investment Fund (AIF).
Backing the “Real India”
Headquartered in Jodhpur, Marwari Catalysts Group has built a reputation for discovering “diamonds in the rough” outside the traditional metro hubs. With regional offices in Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Jaipur, the group has successfully supported over 100 ventures, created 5,000+ jobs, and achieved 11+ exits. Notably, 35% of their portfolio consists of women-led startups, highlighting their commitment to inclusive growth.
By focusing Thrive 10.0 on Defence and Agri, MCats is aligning its “Marwari entrepreneurial spirit” with the national mission of Atmanirbhar Bharat, ensuring that the next generation of industrial and agricultural workhorses are built in the emerging heartlands of India.
Applications for Thrive 10.0 are now open. apply
By: Vanshika Tayal
