Skippi, the ice popsicle brand that captured hearts on Shark Tank India, is making big moves. The startup recently closed an extended pre-Series A funding round, raising approximately $1.4 million (Rs 12 crore) led by Dubai-based strategic family offices of Surya, along with several angel investors. This fresh capital injection sets the stage for the brand’s ambitious plans to grow beyond India and into international markets, particularly the Middle East.
From Shark Tank to Nationwide Fame
Founded in 2021 by husband-and-wife duo Ravi and Anuja Kabra, Skippi began as a simple idea: creating preservative-free, natural ice popsicles that would stand out in a crowded snack market. The brand skyrocketed after appearing on Shark Tank India Season 1, where all six investors bought into the company, investing around Rs 1 crore for a 15% stake. This exposure gave Skippi a major visibility boost and helped propel its rapid expansion.
Since then, Skippi has built a strong retail footprint across India, with its products available in over 20,000 physical outlets as well as on popular digital platforms such as Zepto, Swiggy Instamart, Amazon, BigBasket, Cred, and its own e-commerce site. But the founders didn’t stop at ice pops — they diversified their offerings to include snacks like Crazy Corn, Cornsticks, and Cream Rolls, broadening their appeal in the competitive snacking space.
What’s Next? International Expansion and Innovation
With $1.4 million in fresh funding, Skippi plans to accelerate growth on multiple fronts. A significant portion of the capital will be used to enhance product development — ensuring new flavors and snack varieties that keep customers coming back for more. The funds will also bolster working capital to support the growing supply chain needs, and step up marketing efforts to increase brand visibility across India and abroad.
Most notably, Skippi is eyeing the Middle East as its first overseas market. The strategic investment from Dubai-based family offices not only brings capital but also valuable regional insights and networks, which will be critical for a successful expansion. The Kabras believe their natural, preservative-free products have strong appeal in Middle Eastern markets, where demand for clean-label, healthier snacks is on the rise.
Riding the Wave of Healthy Snacking Trends
Skippi’s timing couldn’t be better. Consumers worldwide are increasingly seeking snacks that are natural, preservative-free, and healthier alternatives to traditional processed foods. Skippi’s clean-label ice pops and snacks tap perfectly into this trend. Their unique proposition of offering guilt-free indulgence has helped the brand carve a niche in India’s booming snack market and now positions it well for global success.
Funding Journey and Future Outlook
The recent $1.4 million raise follows a bridge round earlier this year that saw participation from Hyderabad Angels Network, Venture Catalysts, Soonicorn Ventures, and HEM Securities. This consistent investor interest reflects growing confidence in Skippi’s potential to scale.
Looking ahead, the Kabras are focused on building a robust leadership team to steer the company through its next growth phase. They aim to scale distribution networks further, both domestically and internationally, and continue innovating to keep their product lineup fresh and exciting.
What started as a simple, natural ice popsicle brand has evolved into a promising snack startup with big dreams. With Shark Tank India fame, solid retail presence, and now $1.4 million in fresh funding aimed at international expansion, Skippi is ready to make a splash beyond Indian shores. If the company’s journey so far is any indication, this is just the beginning of a sweet success story that could soon be enjoyed around the world.
