Startup news and updates: daily roundup (August 21, 2026)

August 21, 2026 - In today's startup news and updates, Red Balloon Aerospace is constructing India's near-space infrastructure. Payload testing requires near-space conditions, but such facilities are scarce in India, according to CVS Kiran, a former scientist at Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre and former VP at Skyroot Aerospace. He identified a gap between aviation and satellites industries and aimed to fill it.

Atomberg Technologies Limited filed draft IPO papers for a Rs 450 crore fresh issue, selling to various funds including A91 Emerging Fund I LLP, V-Sciences Investments Pte Ltd, and Steadview Capital Mauritius Limited. The IPO includes a fresh issue of up to Rs 450 crore in equity shares of face value Rs 10 each and an offer for sale of 7,65,42,051 equity shares.

Quadria Capital-backed Nobel Hygiene is also eyeing an IPO to raise Rs 150 crore alongside a secondary share sale. The funds will be used to expand production capacity at their Halol facility and repay existing bank debt. The IPO consists of a fresh issue of up to Rs 150 crore in equity shares of face value Rs 2 each and an offer for sale of up to 1.55 crore equity shares.

MINISO launched on Instamart with over 90 lifestyle products, including bags, accessories, kitchen and dining items, stationery, and toys. The launch is part of Instamart's expansion into electronics, beauty, lifestyle, and gifting categories. Opptra is supporting MINISO's digital distribution and fulfilment in India.

SDN Trust, supported by Wadhwani Foundation, partnered with Knimbus to provide employability and job-readiness programs through digital libraries across India. Wadhwani JobRise and Wadhwani JobConnect will be accessible through Knimbus-powered platforms, offering students workplace skills, interview preparation, and job opportunities.

R for Rabbit launched a 10-product BioMimic kids' care range inspired by natural mechanisms of children's skin and hair. The range includes skincare, bathing, oral care, grooming products, and is paraben-free, sulphate-free, pH-balanced, and has undergone clinical, dermatological, and pediatric testing.