New York Offers Strong Opportunities for Indian Start-ups to Raise Funds and Expand Globally: Dilip Chauhan
Kolkata, November 1, 2026: New York is emerging as a significant destination for Indian entrepreneurs seeking investment, business expansion and access to international markets, according to Dilip Chauhan, an Indo-American community leader and former Deputy Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office of International Affairs, New York City.
Chauhan was speaking at a session titled “Strengthening India–US Community Connections”, organised by the Merchants’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) at The Park Hotel on Sunday. The programme also featured Sagar Daryani, Co-Founder and CEO of Wow! Momo Foods Pvt. Ltd., who shared insights into the growth and international expansion plans of the Indian food start-up.
Highlighting New York’s investment ecosystem, Chauhan described the city as a major global technology and economic centre, offering considerable opportunities for entrepreneurs and emerging businesses. He pointed out that New York has a population of more than 4.5 million, over 4,000 start-ups and 32 unicorn companies.
He further stated that New York City attracted more than US$25.6 billion in venture capital funding last year, making it an attractive destination for businesses looking to raise capital and establish an international presence.
“New York is the place to expand globally. The city is a hallmark of diversity,” Chauhan observed, emphasising that its multicultural business environment provides opportunities for companies from different backgrounds.
He also highlighted the city’s substantial public procurement expenditure, stating that New York City spends approximately US$45 billion annually on goods and services. He expressed his intention to encourage greater participation of minority-owned and women-led businesses in this procurement ecosystem.
According to Chauhan, New York’s diverse commercial landscape can accommodate businesses across sectors. He also referred to the significant presence of Indian-American entrepreneurs, noting that more than one lakh convenience stores in the United States are owned by members of the Indian-American community. He encouraged Indian businesses to explore opportunities for expansion in New York.
Chauhan was also recognised for his role in the initiative that led to the declaration of a school holiday in New York City on the occasion of Diwali, reflecting the growing recognition of Indian cultural traditions in the city.
Wow! Momo Eyes International Expansion
Sharing the growth journey of Wow! Momo, Co-Founder and CEO Sagar Daryani said that the Kolkata-based company has achieved an annual revenue of approximately ₹1,200 crore, with a workforce of around 7,200 employees operating across 102 cities in India.
Daryani said the company was preparing for its next phase of expansion and was exploring an entry into the New York market. He also announced plans to open an outlet in Sri Lanka in December 2026.
The proposed international expansion reflects the company’s ambition to take an Indian food brand into overseas markets and explore opportunities beyond its established domestic operations.
MCCI Highlights India–US Business and Community Relations
In his welcome address, Munish Jhajharia, President of MCCI, introduced Chauhan as a prominent Indo-American community leader and former public servant associated with the Mayor’s Office of International Affairs in New York City.
Jhajharia recalled Chauhan’s efforts to strengthen New York’s position as a global economic centre and a hub for innovation during his tenure.
The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Anirudh Jhunjhunwala, Senior Vice President of MCCI, who appreciated Chauhan’s insights into the experiences and contributions of the Indian community in New York. He also acknowledged Chauhan’s continued advocacy for the South Asian community.
The interaction provided a platform to discuss investment opportunities, entrepreneurship, international market access and the role of the Indian diaspora in strengthening economic and community connections between India and the United States.
By Suman Munshi
IBG NEWS
