Delhi-based biomaterials startup Ukhi has raised $1.2 million in a pre-seed funding round to advance its mission of transforming the packaging industry with sustainable solutions. The funding comprises equity investment led by 100Unicorns, with participation from Venture Catalysts and angel investor Avtar Monga, alongside debt funding from SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India).
This latest funding round follows a prior angel investment of $69.6K, providing Ukhi with the capital to scale its operations significantly. The startup plans to enhance its production capabilities, advance research in biomaterials, and expand its sustainable packaging solutions into international markets.
Co-founded in 2019 by Priyanka Chauhan, Vishal Vivek, and Sundeep Kumar Tyagi, Ukhi develops biodegradable biomaterials from agricultural residues, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic packaging. With operations in Haryana and Uttarakhand, the startup’s patented technology uses lignocellulosic agricultural residues to produce compostable materials designed for scalability and industrial use.
Ukhi’s innovative solutions aim to address pressing environmental challenges, including reducing plastic pollution and preventing crop residue burning. Its circular economy approach leverages agricultural waste to foster sustainability, positioning itself as a key player in the bioeconomy sector.
The company’s flagship biomaterial is touted as fully compostable, aligning with global trends toward greener packaging. Its efforts are set to benefit industries looking to reduce their carbon footprints and transition to sustainable practices.
As demand for environmentally friendly packaging grows, Ukhi may face competition from players like Traceless and Advanced Biomaterial Company. However, its emphasis on leveraging local agricultural residues and patent-pending technology offers a distinctive edge in the global biomaterials landscape.
Through its innovations, Ukhi aims to catalyze an industry-wide shift toward circular solutions, significantly reducing environmental impact while supporting industries’ sustainability goals.
