Team Startupcity

• Rs 8.7 Cr raised in seed round (Rs 7.6 Cr equity + Rs 1.1 Cr debt)
• Backed by Zeropearl VC, Bounce, Yogabar, Jar, Renee founders
• Plans to expand product line, open stores, and scale across metros

Gully Labs, a sneaker brand based in New Delhi, is making waves by blending traditional Indian design with contemporary craftsmanship. They’ve just secured Rs 8.7 crore in seed funding, which includes Rs 7.6 crore in equity and Rs 1.1 crore in venture debt. This funding will help them expand their product line, roll out retail locations, and make a bigger splash in metro markets across India.

Founded in 2023 by Arjun Singh and Animesh Mishra, Gully Labs is part of a fresh wave of premium, direct-to-consumer brands that celebrate Indian culture. The equity round was spearheaded by Zeropearl VC, with notable contributions from entrepreneurs and investors like Vivekananda Hallekere (Bounce), Suhasini Sampath (Yogabar), Nishchay AG (Jar), and Ashutosh Valani (Renee Cosmetics). Micro-VCs Untitled Ventures and Atrium Ventures also joined in, while Stride Ventures took the lead on the debt side.

The brand first caught attention with its handcrafted sneakers adorned with Phulkari embroidery and motifs inspired by regional festivals. With this new funding, Gully Labs aims to broaden its product offerings, open exclusive retail stores, and strengthen its presence in India’s fashion-savvy metro areas.

Co-founders Singh and Mishra shared their vision: “Indian stories deserve a global platform not just in cinema or art, but in everyday products. This funding empowers us to scale our culturally rooted sneaker line, grow our team, and bring authentic Indian craftsmanship to a broader audience.”

Bipin Shah from Zeropearl VC remarked, “Gully Labs is a shining example of our Indiluxe thesis: premium, design-first Indian brands for India’s new-age consumers. Their sneakers tell India’s story with authenticity and world-class quality.”