Rozana Raises $22.5M for Rural Commerce Growth
Rural commerce startup Rozana has secured a significant investment of $22.5 million, spearheaded by Bertelsmann India Investments, with additional contributions from Fireside Ventures and existing investors.
The funding marks a pivotal moment for the New Delhi-based company, which has been making waves with its hyperlocal model serving 12,000 villages through a vast network of 18,000 peer partners for last-mile delivery.
Led by founders Ankur Dahiya, Adwait Vikram Singh, Mukesh Christopher, and Prithvi Pal Singh, Rozana has carved a niche in the e-commerce landscape by focusing exclusively on rural India. Since its inception in 2021, the startup has expanded its operations to cover approximately 12,000 villages across 13 districts in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana.
The infusion of capital will fuel Rozana’s growth trajectory, enabling the expansion of its warehousing and logistics infrastructure into new districts. Additionally, the funds will be allocated towards enhancing the company’s technology platform and bolstering its team across key areas such as technology, product development, and operations.
Ankur Dahiya, CEO of Rozana, expressed enthusiasm about the opportunities the funding presents. He emphasized the company’s commitment to building robust logistics and supply chain capabilities to extend its reach and provide rural communities with access to essential products.
Central to Rozana’s success is its extensive network of last-mile partners, comprising predominantly women village residents. These 18,000 individuals play a crucial role in facilitating the delivery of goods to remote areas, contributing to the company’s mission of empowering rural communities and fostering economic growth.
With the support of investors like Bertelsmann India Investments, Fireside Ventures, and 3one4 Capital, Rozana is poised to further strengthen its position as a leader in rural commerce. The infusion of funds will enable the company to capitalize on emerging opportunities and drive sustainable development across India’s rural landscape.
