- Gully Labs raised ₹8.7 crore in a seed round, including ₹7.6 crore in equity and ₹1.1 crore in venture debt.
- The startup will use the funds to expand its product line, open exclusive retail stores, and strengthen its metro market presence.
New Delhi-based sneaker startup Gully Labs has raised ₹8.7 crore in a seed funding round aimed at expanding its product line and scaling distribution.
The round comprises ₹7.6 crore in equity and ₹1.1 crore in venture debt, with backing from top-tier investors and startup founders.
Founded in 2023 by Arjun Singh and Animesh Mishra, Gully Labs stands out for integrating traditional Indian art forms into premium sneakers. From Phulkari embroidery to motifs inspired by regional festivals, the startup’s design-first approach has carved out a niche among urban, fashion-conscious consumers.
The equity round was led by Zeropearl VC, and saw participation from Bounce co-founder Vivekananda Hallekere, Yogabar’s Suhasini Sampath, Jar’s Nishchay AG, and Renee Cosmetics’ Ashutosh Valani.
Micro-VC firms Untitled Ventures and Atrium Ventures also joined the round. The ₹1.1 crore in debt funding was spearheaded by Stride Ventures.
This seed round follows Gully Labs’ pre-seed raise of ₹1.1 crore last year. With the new capital, the startup plans to launch exclusive retail outlets, introduce more products, and deepen its presence in India’s metro markets.
“This round is a big step forward for us... With this backing, we are excited to scale our vision, grow our team, expand into physical retail, and bring even more culturally rooted, design-led sneakers to people across India and beyond,” said Singh and Mishra.
Zeropearl VC’s Bipin Shah added, “Gully Labs embodies this spirit — taking India’s rich cultural story to the world through sneakers that are 100% made in India."
The brand’s vision aligns with a growing movement among Indian startups to elevate homegrown craftsmanship into premium, globally competitive products.
Edited by Annette George
