North East Small Finance Bank (NESFB), Assam’s homegrown banking trailblazer and the region’s first unicorn, took center stage at Startup Mahakumbh 2025, held at Bharat Mandapam from April 3 to 5. Making its national debut after merging with fintech unicorn slice, NESFB showcased a bold roadmap for tech-driven, inclusive banking aimed at realizing the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047. The bank unveiled AI-powered flagship branches and launched two high-return digital products—a Digital Savings Account linked to the RBI repo rate with daily interest credits, and a Fixed Deposit offering up to 9% interest. With fully digital onboarding and app-based services, NESFB is targeting metro cities, tier-2 hubs, and rural regions alike.
Guwahati, NESFB’s headquarters, continues to serve as a strategic fintech nerve center. The city’s youthful population, growing digital adoption, and financial aspirations make it an ideal launchpad. NESFB’s success reflects Guwahati’s emergence as a startup-friendly market with the infrastructure and talent to support next-gen banking models.
A slice I NESFB spokesperson said: “The unwavering support of the Government of Assam, under the visionary leadership of the Hon’ble Chief Minister, has been instrumental in NESFB’s journey. Their forward-thinking policies and active facilitation have helped us not only scale in the Northeast but position ourselves as a digital-first bank for all of India. NESFB is proud to be Assam’s first unicorn—proof that regional excellence can thrive and lead on national and global stages.” He added: “Our mission is clear: to redefine banking with tech-led solutions that are accessible, efficient, and empowering. Whether it’s AI-driven branches, high-yield savings, or smart fixed deposits, we’re building a bank that works for everyone—from metro millennials to rural entrepreneurs.”