How On-Demand Workspaces Are Transforming the Startup Ecosystem
The fast evolution of the Indian Startup Ecosystem today is led by founders who value speed, value, and scalability. However, the available infrastructure hasn’t always managed to keep pace with the evolved, lean nature of these business models.
Considering that traditional real estate was never built for this pace of change, these outdated models can become massive blockades for startups—be it funding cycles, pivots, or quick team expansions.
Flexible, on-demand workspaces, on the contrary, have emerged as a convenient alternative workspace solution for nationwide startups. Offering Real Estate as a Service (REaaS), EFC Limited is leading this shift in the way startups work.
Evolution of Startup Ecosystem in India
While tier-1 cities continue to attract tremendous talent and capital, the tier-2 cities like Jaipur, Indore, and Bhubaneshwar are also seeing a surge in startups. There are three major components driving this growth: Improved digital access, better infrastructure, and the rise in the entrepreneurial mindset amongst the people.
Startups today are lean, fast, and digital-first. Many begin with hybrid teams and require flexibility in scaling their operations without being locked into rigid real estate commitments.
According to DPIIT, India had 1,17, 254 recognized startups as of December 31, 2023. To sustainably build on this momentum, the entire startup ecosystem needs infrastructure that evolves with the founder.
| Traditional Real Estate | Flexible, On-Demand Workspaces (REaaS) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Long-term lock-in periods and rigid lease agreements | Pay-as-you-go or short-term, scalable plans |
| 2 | High capital expenditure (fit-outs, deposits, utilities) | Minimal upfront cost; all-inclusive pricing |
| 3 | Fixed layouts with limited adaptability | Modular, customizable spaces based on team size |
| 4 | Requires time-consuming setup and coordination | Plug-and-play infrastructure, ready from day one |
| 5 | Startups often overpay or outgrow spaces quickly | Scale up or down easily as the business evolves |
| 6 | No shared resources; additional cost for amenities | Shared meeting rooms, internet, breakout zones, etc. |
| 7 | Founders must manage vendors, maintenance, and logistics | End-to-end facility management is handled by the provider |
| 8 | Slows momentum and distracts from core business | Enables founders to focus on growth and innovation |
Strengthening The Startup Ecosystem
For first-time founders, flexible workspace solutions can significantly lower the entry barrier. The minimal upfront investment and no long-term commitments enable entrepreneurs to test, build, and iterate without the pressures of infrastructure constraints.
However, the highlight of these spaces is their ability to power the decentralization of innovation. Startups no longer have to relocate to metros to access quality infrastructure. With EFC Limited’s enterprise-grade work environments in emerging cities, founders can build locally while competing on a global scale.
The workspaces act as ecosystem centers that bring startups, investors, and service providers under a single umbrella. Many places also work as venues for pitch nights, demo days, workshops, and networking events. For early-stage startups, this exposure is exactly what they need. The shared ambitions in such flexible workspaces can help founders stay motivated and learn faster, and scale efficiently.
How EFC Can Accelerate Your Startup
The startup ecosystem today needs agility, speed, and shared energy to thrive. Flexible, on-demand workspaces are a vital aspect of this pursuit of success.
EFC Limited offers flexible, tech-enabled workspaces across its network of 35+ centres in seven states, including Pune, Noida, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Chennai, and Ahmedabad. Whether you are a founder, investor, or ecosystem enabler, EFC’s Real Estate as a Service (REaaS) model allows startups to set up their operations within days.
Ready to scale smarter?
Let EFC’s flexible workspaces support your startup journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Real Estate as a Service (REaaS) model?
REaaS is a flexible workspace model that offers short-term plans, minimal upfront investment, and ready-to-use infrastructure.
2. Where are EFC workspaces located?
EFC operates 70+ centers across seven states, including Pune, Noida, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Chennai, Ahmedabad, and select tier-2 cities.
3. What is the total seating capacity across EFC centers?
EFC offers a total seating capacity of over 57,000 across its network.
4. What amenities are included?
Amenities include high-speed internet, meeting rooms, breakout zones, security, power backup, and on-site facility management.
5. What is the minimum lock-in period?
EFC offers flexible plans with no long-term lock-in requirements. Terms vary by plan and location.
6. Can workspace size be adjusted?
Yes. Workspaces are modular and can be scaled up or down based on team size, which is especially useful for dynamic startup ecosystem needs.
7. Are EFC workspaces move-in ready?
Yes. All workspaces come fully furnished and operational from day one.
8. Who manages maintenance and logistics?
EFC provides end-to-end facility management, including maintenance, utilities, and vendor coordination.