Team StartupCity

• Cellarim Labs secures Rs 6 crore seed funding led by 3i Partners and Venture Catalysts
• Funds to expand pilot-scale production and B2B ingredient supply
• Startup focuses on cell free biomanufacturing for cosmetics and personal care

Biotechnology startup Cellarim Labs has raised Rs 6 crore in a seed funding round Co-led by 3i Partners and Venture Catalysts, with participation from Momentum Capital, Jashan Bhumkar, Gayathri Kuppendra Reddy, and other investors. The Mumbai-based startup will use the funds to set up a pilot-scale biomanufacturing facility, accelerate production of its NeuHyal portfolio, and expand B2B ingredient supply to beauty and cosmetic brands.

Founded in 2023 by Hitesh Rafalia and Nisa Mehreen, Cellarim Labs focuses on developing sustainable, alternative production methods for cosmetic ingredients. The startup aims to address challenges such as dependence on imported bioactives, supply inconsistencies, and high costs. Its cell free, enzyme-based platform replaces traditional fermentation and chemical synthesis processes, converting renewable bio waste into high-purity cosmetic ingredients.

The company is also building an AI-driven biofoundry, allowing partner brands to submit target molecules for design, testing, and production. This approach helps reduce development timelines for new bioactive ingredients. NeuHyal, Cellarim Labs’ flagship product line, includes Hyaluronic Acid ranging from 10 kDa to 5000 kDa, designed for skincare, cosmetic, and related applications. The portfolio offers a reliable alternative to conventional Hyaluronic Acid sources.

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Initially, the startup is targeting the $9 billion global Hyaluronic Acid market, which spans skincare, dermal fillers, and medical-grade applications. With this funding, Cellarim Labs aims to position itself as a key supplier of innovative, sustainable ingredients for the beauty and personal care industry.