Startup news and updates: daily roundup (August 18, 2026)

YourStory presents the latest headlines from August 18, 2026, across various sectors. ProgShakti, an initiative launched by Progcap, aims to bridge the credit gap for women entrepreneurs by offering loans up to Rs 10 lakh without a male co-applicant. Additionally, the program provides financial education and a peer community for certified woman entrepreneurs.

Meanwhile, Milkvilla, a Bengaluru-based dairytech startup, is developing a hyperlocal supply chain to deliver fresh raw milk from farmers to consumers within 12 hours. The company has already secured over 10,000 customers and works with around 350 dairy farmers. In funding news, Lissun, a health-tech company, has raised ₹48 crore in a Series A round led by Colossa Ventures, with participation from various investors.

This capital will be used to expand Sunshine by Lissun centres and develop AI-led solutions. Similarly, Ezolv, an AI-native lending platform, has secured $12.5 million in a Series A round led by Norwest, with the funds aimed at enhancing AI capabilities and automation. In other startup-related developments, Tripura launched the T-RISE Portal, a digital platform connecting startups with various stakeholders, including mentors, investors, and corporates.

Lastly, Montra Electric has signed an MoU with Perpetuity Capital to provide financing solutions for its electric three-wheelers, making EVs more accessible to customers.