India’s startup ecosystem has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, with a significant surge in the development of innovative HR software solutions. As businesses strive to streamline their HR processes, enhance employee engagement, and ensure compliance with ever-evolving regulations, the demand for efficient and comprehensive HR software has soared. The Indian HR tech landscape is now populated with a plethora of startups offering cutting-edge solutions tailored to the unique needs of various industries and business sizes.
From automating payroll and attendance management to facilitating performance appraisals and recruitment processes, these startups are revolutionizing the way HR departments operate. They leverage advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and cloud computing to deliver user-friendly, scalable, and cost-effective solutions.
This list highlights the top 10 HR software startups in India that are making significant strides in the industry. Each of these companies brings a unique value proposition to the table, catering to the diverse requirements of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), startups, and large corporations alike. Their innovative products are not only simplifying HR tasks but also enhancing overall productivity and employee satisfaction.
Table of Contents
1. Darwinbox
Darwinbox is a cloud-based human resources (HR) management software provider that focuses on streamlining and automating HR processes for companies. Founded in 2015 by Chaitanya Peddi, Jayant Paleti, and Rohit Chennamaneni, Darwinbox offers a comprehensive suite of HR solutions, including recruitment, onboarding, attendance management, payroll, performance management, and employee engagement. The platform is known for its user-friendly interface, integration capabilities, and analytics-driven approach. Darwinbox serves a wide range of industries and has quickly become a preferred HR solution for many leading companies in India and abroad.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2015 |
| Founders | Chaitanya Peddi, Jayant Paleti, Rohit Chennamaneni |
| Headquarters | Hyderabad, India |
| Key Services | Recruitment, Onboarding, Attendance, Payroll, Performance Management, Employee Engagement |
| Target Industries | Various |
| Funding | $107 million (as of 2021) |
| Key Clients | Dr. Reddy’s, Arvind, Kotak Life, Swiggy |
| Platform | Cloud-based |
| USP | User-friendly, integration capabilities, analytics-driven |
| Website | darwinbox.com |
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2. Keka HR
Keka HR is an innovative HR software solution that focuses on simplifying HR processes and enhancing employee experience. Founded in 2015 by Vijay Yalamanchili, Keka HR offers a variety of features including payroll management, attendance tracking, performance appraisal, recruitment automation, and employee self-service. The platform is designed to be user-friendly and scalable, catering to the needs of small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in India. Keka HR stands out for its customer-centric approach and commitment to continuous improvement, ensuring that it adapts to the evolving needs of modern businesses.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2015 |
| Founder | Vijay Yalamanchili |
| Headquarters | Hyderabad, India |
| Key Services | Payroll, Attendance, Performance Appraisal, Recruitment, Employee Self-service |
| Target Industries | SMEs |
| Funding | Bootstrapped |
| Key Clients | Dream11, Oyo, Razorpay, Upgrad |
| Platform | Cloud-based |
| USP | Customer-centric, user-friendly, scalable |
| Website | keka.com |
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3. Freshteam
Freshteam, a product of Freshworks, is an HR software solution designed to help businesses manage their hiring, onboarding, time-off, employee data, and HR workflows in one place. Launched in 2017, Freshteam leverages the expertise of Freshworks in creating user-centric SaaS products. The platform integrates seamlessly with other Freshworks products, enhancing its value proposition for existing users. Freshteam is known for its intuitive interface, automation capabilities, and robust feature set, making it a popular choice among startups and mid-sized companies.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2017 |
| Parent Company | Freshworks Inc. |
| Headquarters | Chennai, India |
| Key Services | Hiring, Onboarding, Time-off Management, Employee Data, HR Workflows |
| Target Industries | Startups, Mid-sized companies |
| Funding | Freshworks: $400 million (as of 2021) |
| Key Clients | Zomato, Chargebee, Klarna, 3M |
| Platform | Cloud-based |
| USP | Integration with Freshworks suite, intuitive interface |
| Website | freshteam.com |
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4. ZingHR
ZingHR is a comprehensive cloud-based HR software that offers a wide range of HR solutions, including recruitment, payroll, performance management, learning and development, and employee engagement. Founded in 2014 by Prasad Rajappan, ZingHR leverages advanced technologies such as AI and machine learning to provide innovative solutions that enhance HR efficiency and employee productivity. The platform is known for its mobile-first approach and focus on providing a seamless user experience. ZingHR caters to businesses of all sizes across various industries.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2014 |
| Founder | Prasad Rajappan |
| Headquarters | Mumbai, India |
| Key Services | Recruitment, Payroll, Performance Management, Learning & Development, Employee Engagement |
| Target Industries | Various |
| Funding | $10 million (as of 2020) |
| Key Clients | Tata Group, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Hero MotoCorp |
| Platform | Cloud-based |
| USP | AI and ML integration, mobile-first approach |
| Website | zinghr.com |
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5. greytHR
greytHR is a leading HR and payroll management software designed to automate and streamline HR processes for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Founded in 1994 by Girish Rowjee and Sayeed Anjum, greytHR offers a range of features including payroll processing, leave management, attendance tracking, employee self-service, and statutory compliance. The platform is known for its reliability, ease of use, and extensive support resources. greytHR aims to help businesses improve efficiency, reduce errors, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1994 |
| Founders | Girish Rowjee, Sayeed Anjum |
| Headquarters | Bengaluru, India |
| Key Services | Payroll, Leave Management, Attendance, Employee Self-service, Statutory Compliance |
| Target Industries | SMEs |
| Funding | $5 million (as of 2018) |
| Key Clients | Manipal Group, Ujjivan Small Finance Bank, Narayana Health |
| Platform | Cloud-based |
| USP | Reliability, ease of use, extensive support |
| Website | greythr.com |
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6. Zoho People
Zoho People is an HR software solution by Zoho Corporation, designed to simplify HR management and improve employee experience. Launched in 2008, Zoho People offers a comprehensive suite of HR tools, including employee database management, attendance tracking, leave management, performance appraisal, and HR analytics. The platform is highly customizable and integrates seamlessly with other Zoho applications, making it a versatile solution for businesses of all sizes. Zoho People is known for its affordability, ease of use, and extensive feature set.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2008 |
| Parent Company | Zoho Corporation |
| Headquarters | Chennai, India |
| Key Services | Employee Database, Attendance, Leave Management, Performance Appraisal, HR Analytics |
| Target Industries | Various |
| Funding | Bootstrapped |
| Key Clients | Whirlpool, Mahindra, Renault Nissan, HDFC |
| Platform | Cloud-based |
| USP | Customizable, integrates with Zoho apps, affordable |
| Website | zoho.com/people |
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7. Qandle
Qandle is an all-in-one HR software platform designed to address the diverse needs of modern HR management. Founded in 2016 by Himanshu Aggarwal and Naman Mahajan, Qandle offers a wide range of features including HR management, payroll processing, attendance tracking, performance management, and employee engagement. The platform is designed to be highly customizable and user-friendly, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes. Qandle is known for its innovative approach and commitment to providing a seamless user experience.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2016 |
| Founders | Himanshu Aggarwal, Naman Mahajan |
| Headquarters | Gurgaon, India |
| Key Services | HR Management, Payroll, Attendance, Performance Management, Employee Engagement |
| Target Industries | Various |
| Funding | $1.2 million (as of 2020) |
| Key Clients | Jabong, Bira 91, Treebo Hotels, The Man Company |
| Platform | Cloud-based |
| USP | Customizable, user-friendly, innovative |
| Website | qandle.com |
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8. HRMantra
HRMantra is a comprehensive HR and payroll software solution designed to automate and simplify HR processes. Founded in 2000 by Dr. Narendra Patwardhan, HRMantra offers a wide array of features including attendance management, payroll processing, recruitment, performance appraisal, and employee self-service. The platform leverages advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to enhance HR efficiency and decision-making. HRMantra serves a diverse range of industries and is known for its robust feature set and scalability.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2000 |
| Founder | Dr. Narendra Patwardhan |
| Headquarters | Mumbai, India |
| Key Services | Attendance Management, Payroll, Recruitment, Performance Appraisal, Employee Self-service |
| Target Industries | Various |
| Funding | Bootstrapped |
| Key Clients | Sony, Suzuki, HDFC, Tata Group |
| Platform | Cloud-based |
| USP | AI and ML integration, robust feature set |
| Website | hrmantra.com |
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9. Kredily
Kredily is a free HR and payroll software solution tailored for Indian businesses. Founded in 2017 by Devendra Khandegar, Kredily offers features such as payroll processing, attendance management, leave tracking, and employee self-service. The platform aims to provide an affordable yet comprehensive solution for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Kredily is known for its user-friendly interface, cost-effectiveness, and focus on the unique needs of Indian businesses.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2017 |
| Founder | Devendra Khandegar |
| Headquarters | Bengaluru, India |
| Key Services | Payroll, Attendance, Leave Management, Employee Self-service |
| Target Industries | SMEs |
| Funding | $750,000 (as of 2019) |
| Key Clients | 1mg, Lenskart, Treebo Hotels, Bounce |
| Platform | Cloud-based |
| USP | Free for SMEs, user-friendly, tailored for Indian businesses |
| Website | kredily.com |
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10. sumHR
sumHR is a cloud-based HR and payroll software designed to streamline HR processes for startups and small businesses. Founded in 2012 by Jay Thaker and Ronak Sanghavi, sumHR provides a range of features including attendance tracking, leave management, payroll processing, performance reviews, and employee self-service. The platform emphasizes ease of use and affordability, making it an attractive choice for growing businesses. sumHR is recognized for its commitment to simplifying HR tasks and improving overall HR efficiency.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2012 |
| Founders | Jay Thaker, Ronak Sanghavi |
| Headquarters | Mumbai, India |
| Key Services | Attendance, Leave Management, Payroll, Performance Reviews, Employee Self-service |
| Target Industries | Startups, Small Businesses |
| Funding | Bootstrapped |
| Key Clients | Vivanta, L&T Realty, Faasos, Practo |
| Platform | Cloud-based |
| USP | Ease of use, affordability, tailored for startups |
| Website | sumhr.com |
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FAQs on HR software startups in India
Q1: What are HR software startups?
A1: HR software startups are companies that develop and provide software solutions designed to manage and automate various human resources (HR) functions. These functions include payroll processing, attendance tracking, recruitment, performance management, employee engagement, and compliance management.
Q2: Why is HR software important for businesses?
A2: HR software is important because it helps businesses streamline and automate HR processes, leading to increased efficiency, reduced errors, and improved compliance. It also enhances employee experience by providing self-service options and better communication tools, thereby contributing to overall productivity and satisfaction.
Q3: What features should I look for in an HR software solution?
A3: Key features to look for in an HR software solution include payroll processing, attendance and leave management, recruitment automation, performance appraisal, employee self-service, compliance management, and integration capabilities with other software systems. Advanced features like AI and analytics can also be beneficial.
Q4: How do I choose the right HR software for my business?
A4: To choose the right HR software, consider the specific needs of your business, such as the size of your workforce, budget, and required features. Evaluate different solutions based on their ease of use, scalability, customer support, and integration capabilities. Reading customer reviews and requesting demos can also help in making an informed decision.
Q5: Are there affordable HR software options for small businesses?
A5: Yes, there are several affordable HR software options tailored for small businesses. Some startups, like Kredily and sumHR, offer cost-effective solutions that are either free or competitively priced for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These platforms provide essential HR features without compromising on quality.
Q6: Can HR software integrate with other business systems?
A6: Most modern HR software solutions offer integration capabilities with other business systems such as accounting software, ERP systems, and CRM platforms. This integration helps in ensuring seamless data flow across different functions, reducing manual data entry, and improving overall efficiency.
Q7: What are the benefits of using cloud-based HR software?
A7: Cloud-based HR software offers several benefits, including remote access, automatic updates, scalability, data security, and lower upfront costs. It allows HR teams to access information from anywhere, making it easier to manage a distributed workforce and adapt to changing business needs.
Q8: How do HR software startups use AI and machine learning?
A8: HR software startups leverage AI and machine learning to enhance various HR functions, such as resume screening, predictive analytics for employee performance, sentiment analysis for employee engagement, and automating repetitive tasks. These technologies help in making more informed decisions and improving HR efficiency.
Q9: What are some common challenges businesses face when implementing HR software?
A9: Common challenges include data migration from legacy systems, ensuring data security and privacy, managing change within the organization, training employees to use the new system, and integrating the software with existing business systems. Choosing a user-friendly and well-supported HR software can help mitigate these challenges.
Q10: Can HR software help with compliance management?
A10: Yes, HR software can significantly aid in compliance management by automating regulatory reporting, tracking compliance requirements, maintaining accurate employee records, and ensuring timely updates to policies and procedures. This helps businesses stay compliant with local and international labor laws and regulations.
Conclusion
The rise of HR software startups in India reflects the growing need for innovative solutions to manage and optimize human resources functions. These startups are playing a crucial role in transforming the HR landscape by offering platforms that streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enhance employee engagement.
From established names like Darwinbox and greytHR to newer entrants like Kredily and Qandle, these companies provide a wide array of features tailored to meet the needs of diverse industries and business sizes. Their use of advanced technologies such as AI, machine learning, and cloud computing ensures that businesses can stay ahead in an increasingly competitive environment.
By leveraging these HR software solutions, businesses can automate routine tasks, reduce administrative overhead, and focus more on strategic HR initiatives. This not only improves operational efficiency but also contributes to better compliance, improved decision-making, and a more engaged and satisfied workforce.
As the Indian business ecosystem continues to evolve, the importance of effective HR management cannot be overstated. These top 10 HR software startups are at the forefront of this evolution, providing the tools and technologies necessary to drive growth and success in the modern workplace.
Also Read :
- Top 10 Gig Economy Startups in India
- Top 10 Data Privacy Startups in India
- Top 10 E-learning Startups in India
- Top 10 Language Learning Startups in India
- Top 10 Coding Bootcamps in India
- Top 10 Financial Inclusion Startups in India
- Top 10 Microfinance Startups in India
- Top 10 Social Impact Startups in India
- Top 10 Sustainable Startups in India
- Top 10 Circular Economy Startups in India
