The Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) has forged a strategic alliance with the Startup Policy Forum (SPF) aimed at enhancing fintech collaboration, policy engagement, and global expansion opportunities specifically for Indian startups.

This significant agreement was officially announced during the Black Swan Summit India 2026 held in Bhubaneswar. A memorandum of understanding was signed by James Boey, CEO Asia & Europe and Co-CEO of GFTN Forums, and Shweta Rajpal Kohli, Chairman and CEO of SPF, amidst a gathering of policymakers and industry leaders.

The partnership is intended to establish stronger connections between the Indian startup ecosystem and international financial and technology networks. Furthermore, it will facilitate structured communication between regulators and industry stakeholders, promoting Indian startups that are eager to enter global markets.

Key areas of focus for this collaboration encompass digital financial infrastructure, the responsible use of artificial intelligence, digital assets, and cross-border payments. Additionally, a pivotal aspect will be the development of appropriate regulatory frameworks to foster innovation and growth.

“GFTN’s mission is to connect global ecosystems of policy, capital, and innovation, allowing digital finance to progress in a responsible and inclusive manner,” stated Sopnendu Mohanty, CEO of GFTN Group. He emphasized that this collaboration with SPF is crucial for strengthening India’s influence in shaping global frameworks for fintech and nurturing the digital economy.

Echoing these sentiments, Kohli remarked, “This partnership further integrates the Indian startup ecosystem into global financial and technological frameworks. By merging SPF’s grassroots policy advocacy with a global platform like GFTN, we can promote regulatory coherence, cross-border growth, and long-term innovation that serves both entrepreneurs and consumers.”

The Startup Policy Forum includes a wide array of prominent Indian startups such as Groww, Zerodha, Razorpay, Meesho, Ather Energy, Pine Labs, CRED, Sarvam, and OneCard. The SPF is actively collaborating with key government institutions like DPIIT, MeitY Startup Hub, and the IndiaAI Mission to bolster policy frameworks and support the expansion of India’s innovation ecosystem.