Skippi, the preservative-free ice popsicle brand that shot to fame on Shark Tank India, has raised ₹12 crore (approx. $1.4 million) in an extended pre-Series A funding round. The round was led by the Dubai-based strategic family offices of Surya, which contributed ₹10 crore, with additional backing from a group of angel investors.
The Hyderabad-based startup plans to deploy the fresh capital towards brand-building, working capital, product innovation, and strengthening its leadership team. A portion of the funds will also support international expansion, with the Middle East identified as its next key market.
Founded in 2021 by Ravi and Anuja Kabra, Skippi has built a robust pan-India presence, distributing its natural, no-preservative popsicles and snack products across 20,000+ physical outlets and digital platforms including Zepto, Swiggy Instamart, Amazon, BigBasket, CRED, and its own D2C website.
The latest round follows a bridge funding earlier this year led by Hyderabad Angels Network and Venture Catalysts, with participation from Soonicorn Ventures and HEM Securities, among others. Skippi first captured national attention during Season 1 of Shark Tank India, where it secured ₹1 crore from all six sharks in exchange for a 15% equity stake—a pivotal moment that turbocharged its brand recognition.
“This funding is a big step for Skippi as we work to become a top FMCG brand in India. We are very thankful for the support from our investors, including our valued sharks. With this money, we will focus on building our brand, creating new products, and bringing in great talent to our leadership team,”
said Ravi Kabra, CEO and co-founder of Skippi.
Commenting on the brand’s trajectory, Raman Sharma, founder and CEO of Bestvantage Investments, added:
“Skippi has made an India-first brand in a market dominated by international players. We feel that there is a tremendous opportunity to take this product to the masses.”
Beyond its flagship popsicle range, Skippi has diversified into snacks with products like Crazy Corn, Cornsticks, and Cream Rolls, reflecting its ambition to become a leading new-age FMCG player in India.