Startup news and updates: Daily roundup (Dec 4, 2024)
Summary
Shilpa Shetty-backed and Shark Tank India fame brand, WickedGud, has secured Rs 20 crore led by Orios Venture Partners and saw participation from Asiana Fund and a clutch of existing investors.Founded in 2021 by second-time entrepreneur Bhuman Dani, WickedGud is a better-for-you indulgent food brand on a mission to un-junk India, one kitchen at a time and offers a range of healthy noodles, pastas and chips for Indias growing Gen Z and Gen X population.The company will use the fresh capital to ramp up its distribution network, increase spending on branding and marketing and strengthen its core team. It also plans to expand its product development initiatives, enhancing the existing portfolio and adding Korean flavours to its instant and cup noodles range.ZFunds, a Gurugram-based wealthtech company, has raised Rs 25 crore in seed funding led by Elevation Capital with participation from Yashish Dahiya, Co-founder and Group CEO, Policybazaar Group.Launched in 2019 by Manish Kothari and Vidhi Tuteja, ZFunds aims to enhance mutual fund investing experience and outcomes for investors by empowering distributors with the right technology and tools.ZFunds, currently serves over 60,000 customers through more than 10,000 micro-entrepreneurs across 4701 pin codes in India. The chargers aim to support the rapidly growing EV ecosystem by meeting the unique needs of gig workers, ecommerce players, and OEMs across the country.The chargers, developed with Deltas advanced 4kW rectifier modules, are customisable and designed to meet Indias diverse requirements, making them a game-changer for the local EV market.LTIMindtree USA Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of LTIMindtree, a global technology consulting and digital solutions company, announced a partnership, including a strategic investment in Voicing.AI, a next-generation startup.This partnership aligns with LTIMindtrees strategy, AI in everything, Everything for AI and AI for Everyone. This expansion marks a critical milestone in Zeptos mission to bring 10-minute deliveries of everyday essentials to users across the country.Uttar Pradesh, with its population of over 200 million and rapidly urbanising cities, represents an immense opportunity for Zepto to redefine convenience shopping for its digitally savvy and dynamic consumer base.Zepto users courtesy of the sellers on the platform are enjoying a curated assortment of over 25,000 products, including fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy, household essentials, snacks, and personal care items. This integration reinforces Delhiverys position as a trusted partner for multi-channel sellers, particularly SMEs, by addressing their logistical challenges and improving efficiency.The platform now provides unmatched value for ecommerce businesses, boasting 99.5% coverage across India, two-day COD remittance, and international reach to over 220 countries.