Faridabad-based biomaterials startup Ukhi has successfully raised $1.2 million in a pre-seed funding round aimed at accelerating the development of sustainable packaging materials. The funding round, led by 100Unicorns, also saw participation from Venture Catalysts and angel investor Avtar Monga. In addition, debt funding was provided by the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), supporting Ukhi’s mission to scale up its innovative technology.
Transforming Waste into Sustainable Solutions
Founded in 2019 by Priyanka Chauhan, Vishal Vivek, and Sundeep Kumar Tyagi, Ukhi focuses on developing biodegradable biomaterials derived from agricultural waste. The company’s technology transforms lignocellulosic agricultural residues into compostable materials that can replace conventional plastics. This technology holds the potential to address two major environmental issues: plastic pollution and crop residue burning.
By converting agricultural waste—such as crop stubble—into usable materials, Ukhi not only offers an alternative to plastic but also helps reduce the harmful practice of crop burning, which contributes significantly to air pollution. The company operates from Haryana and Uttarakhand, regions heavily affected by these issues.
A Vision for a Greener Future
The newly raised capital will be directed toward enhancing Ukhi’s production capabilities, advancing research on sustainable biomaterials, and expanding its global footprint. The company is targeting industries such as food and retail, where demand for eco-friendly, biodegradable packaging solutions has surged.
Ukhi’s approach directly aligns with the growing global demand for sustainable packaging alternatives. As industries face increasing pressure to reduce their environmental impact, Ukhi’s biodegradable materials offer a promising solution to help companies comply with stringent environmental regulations and reduce their carbon footprints.
Tackling the Plastics Problem
The startup’s innovative technology is a timely response to the global crisis of plastic pollution. As single-use plastics continue to pollute oceans, rivers, and landscapes, businesses are looking for sustainable alternatives to meet both regulatory requirements and consumer expectations for greener practices.
Priyanka Chauhan, co-founder of Ukhi, emphasized the importance of their mission, stating, “Our focus is on creating packaging solutions that not only reduce plastic usage but also contribute to the circular economy by using waste as a resource.”
Future Outlook
With the support from investors and the growing demand for eco-friendly packaging, Ukhi is poised for significant growth. The company’s sustainable biomaterials could play a crucial role in reshaping the packaging industry, providing a practical alternative to plastics that doesn’t compromise on performance or environmental impact.
As Ukhi continues to expand its operations and refine its technologies, it’s clear that the startup is at the forefront of the green revolution in the packaging sector. With a focus on biodegradable materials and a commitment to sustainability, Ukhi is positioning itself as a key player in the fight against plastic pollution.