• Startups to get access to payments, funding & mentorship
• Partnership formed at GFF 2025
• Custom programs to support startup growth journey

PayU and IDFC FIRST Bank have joined hands to empower Indian startups with the tools they need to scale. The two companies signed a strategic MoU at the Global Fintech Festival (GFF) 2025 to support early and growth-stage startups with customized payment solutions, mentorship, funding, and growth programs.

This collaboration brings together PayU’s fintech expertise and IDFC FIRST Bank’s startup focused programs like Leap To Unicorn, FIRSTWINGS Connect, and FIRST Symphony. The goal is to offer a complete ecosystem that helps founders access tailored banking services, tech tools, and go-to-market support.

PayU will initially act as a payment solutions provider, investor, mentor, and partner on IDFC FIRST Bank’s FIRSTWINGS Connect digital portal. The platform is designed to connect startups with investors, industry experts, and support networks to help them grow faster and more efficiently.

Vineet Sethi, Chief Growth and Marketing Officer at PayU, said the partnership aligns with their mission to fuel the success of India’s next wave of startups. “We’re excited to collaborate with IDFC FIRST Bank and offer real value to founders across the country”, he said.

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Bhavesh Jatania, Head of Startup Banking at IDFC FIRST Bank, added, “Our focus is on building a founder-first ecosystem. Partnering with PayU helps us bring stronger solutions, mentorship, and scaling opportunities to startups”.

Together, the two organizations aim to drive innovation through deeper integration, co-branded initiatives, and wider outreach across India’s startup landscape.