NOTO, a Mumbai-based healthy ice cream startup, has successfully raised Rs 21 crore in a pre-Series A funding round, led by Equentis Angel Fund. The latest funding, following a Rs 15 crore raise earlier this year, will help the company scale production, expand distribution, and open offline stores. NOTO, known for its low-calorie, no-sugar, and vegan ice creams, aims to strengthen its omnichannel presence across key markets, particularly in Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities. The brand is backed by prominent investors including Zerodha’s Rainmatter, Bollywood actor John Abraham, and entrepreneurs Kunal Bahl and Rohit Bansal.
NOTO Raises Rs 21 Crore to Accelerate Growth and Expansion
NOTO, an innovative ice cream brand that focuses on healthy alternatives, has raised Rs 21 crore in a pre-Series A funding round. The round, led by Equentis Angel Fund, attracted additional participation from notable investors such as Inflection Point Ventures (IPV), JITO, Signal Ventures, and several others. This fresh infusion of capital will enable the company to scale its production capacity, widen its distribution network, and establish a more prominent offline presence through the opening of branded ice cream parlours.
This funding comes on the heels of a successful Rs 15 crore fundraising round earlier in February 2025, signaling growing investor confidence in the brand’s growth prospects.
Strengthening Brand Presence and Expanding Distribution
The primary focus of NOTO’s latest funding round is to enhance its omnichannel distribution strategy. The company plans to launch its own ice cream parlours, creating a unique brand experience for customers. Additionally, NOTO intends to increase its market penetration in Tier-1 and Tier-2 cities, tapping into the rising consumer demand for healthy, indulgent treats.
The startup’s expansion into quick commerce — particularly through e-commerce platforms — aligns with the broader trend of demand for fast delivery of food products, including healthier dessert alternatives. By deepening its footprint in key markets, NOTO aims to address the growing consumer appetite for healthier ice cream options while bolstering its brand presence in both physical and digital spaces.
A Product Line Rooted in Health and Wellness
Founded in 2019 by Varun Sheth and Ashni Shah, NOTO differentiates itself from conventional ice cream brands by offering a range of low-calorie, no-sugar, and vegan ice creams. This focus on health-conscious consumers aligns with an increasing demand for indulgent yet nutritious food products.
The company’s range of products is designed to cater to those who want to enjoy a sweet treat without compromising on their health goals. By offering an ice cream option that appeals to the growing health-conscious and plant-based food movement, NOTO has carved out a unique niche in the crowded ice cream market.
Investor Confidence and Backing
NOTO’s appeal to investors is underscored by the presence of high-profile backers, including Zerodha’s Rainmatter, White Whale Partners, and WEH Ventures. The brand has also attracted notable figures from the Indian entrepreneurial ecosystem, such as Snapdeal co-founders Kunal Bahl and Rohit Bansal, along with Bollywood actor and fitness enthusiast John Abraham.
This diverse group of investors, with expertise in both financial backing and brand-building, has provided NOTO with the strategic guidance needed to navigate a competitive market. Their support highlights the belief in the brand’s potential to disrupt the traditional ice cream sector, particularly within the growing healthy food and dessert market.
The Road Ahead: Market Expansion and Product Innovation
Looking forward, NOTO is poised for significant growth as it continues to introduce new product lines and expand its presence across major urban markets. The capital raised in this latest round will fuel the company’s mission to meet the rising demand for healthier dessert alternatives and create a lasting brand presence in both retail and online platforms.
The ice cream market in India is undergoing a transformation, with consumers increasingly seeking healthier, low-calorie, and plant-based alternatives. By focusing on these trends, NOTO is well-positioned to tap into a rapidly expanding market segment. As it moves forward with its expansion plans, the company’s ability to scale production, enhance distribution channels, and forge strategic partnerships will be crucial to its long-term success.
Conclusion: NOTO’s Bright Future in the Healthy Ice Cream Space
NOTO’s recent Rs 21 crore fundraising success is a testament to the brand’s strong market position and investor confidence. With a clear focus on health-conscious consumers and a robust expansion strategy, the company is poised to strengthen its presence in the Indian ice cream market. By capitalizing on emerging trends in quick commerce, omnichannel distribution, and healthy eating, NOTO is set to become a key player in the future of the dessert and frozen foods industry. With backing from some of India’s leading investors, the brand’s future looks exceptionally bright as it continues to innovate and grow.
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