Wastelink funding marks a pivotal moment for India’s cleantech sector, with the startup securing $3 million to revolutionize food waste recycling. By transforming surplus food into nutrient-rich animal feed, Wastelink tackles India’s 78 million tonnes of annual food waste while empowering farmers with cost-effective solutions. At Startup INDIAX, with over 15 years covering India’s startup ecosystem, we unpack how Wastelink’s AI-driven approach and this funding milestone inspire entrepreneurs. Readers will learn the startup’s technology, impact, and future plans, offering actionable insights for sustainable innovation.
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What Is Wastelink and Why Is Its Mission Critical?
Wastelink, a Delhi-based B2B startup founded in 2018 by Saket Dave and Krishnan Kasturirangan, is redefining food waste recycling.
India discards 78 million tonnes of food annually, contributing to 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Wastelink’s mission to upcycle surplus food into animal feed addresses this crisis while supporting farmers facing feed shortages.
The global upcycled food market is projected to reach $119.8 billion by 2034, signaling massive potential for sustainable ventures like Wastelink. Startup INDIAX recognizes its role in driving India’s circular economy.
How Did Wastelink Secure $3M in Funding?
In its Series A round, Wastelink funding brought in INR 27 crore (~$3 million), building on a prior INR 10 crore seed round in 2022.
The startup’s traction—upcycling 35,000 tonnes of surplus food across 5,000+ pincodes—caught investors’ attention. Its scalable model and measurable environmental impact were key to closing the deal.
For founders, this underscores the value of demonstrating tangible outcomes to attract capital, a trend Startup INDIAX has tracked across India’s startup landscape.
Who Are the Investors Behind Wastelink’s Success?
Avaana Capital, a climate-focused VC, led the Wastelink funding round, signaling strong belief in its vision.
Previous backers include Matterhorn Projects LLP, Indigram Labs Foundation, and angel investor Sanjiv Rangrass, who supported the 2022 seed round.
Avaana’s portfolio emphasizes green innovation, aligning with Wastelink’s goals. Industry expert Malvika Poddar from Matterhorn noted, “Wastelink is adding impetus to the circular economy, addressing a global issue with economic growth.” This investor confidence inspires other startups.
What Technology Drives Wastelink’s Food Waste Recycling?
Wastelink’s proprietary AI-powered tech stack is the backbone of its food waste recycling process.
The platform uses AI to manage reverse logistics, ensuring traceability from waste collection to feed production. Operating facilities in Sonipat, Lucknow, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, Wastelink processes diverse surplus efficiently.
Saket Dave told , “Our tech delivers consistent, traceable nutrition at scale.” For tech entrepreneurs, this showcases AI’s transformative potential in sustainability.
How Does Wastelink Turn Food Waste into Animal Feed?
Wastelink collects surplus from FMCG companies, including manufacturing rejects and expired stock.
Its patented processing technology transforms these into ECOMIX, a high-energy feed ingredient for cattle, poultry, and aqua farming.
For example, a Bengaluru-based retailer partnered with Wastelink to upcycle unsold inventory, cutting costs and emissions. This process benefits 38,500+ animals yearly while reducing landfill waste, setting Wastelink apart from competitors like Sea6 Energy.
What Milestones Has Wastelink Achieved So Far?
Wastelink has upcycled over 35,000 tonnes of food waste, mitigating 3 tonnes of CO2 emissions per tonne processed.
It serves two key segments: food producers seeking waste solutions and feed manufacturers needing stable inputs.
With facilities in four cities and partnerships with giants like Unilever, Wastelink’s growth is notable. Startup INDIAX sees this as a model for startups aiming to balance profit and purpose.
What Are Wastelink’s Plans for the $3M Funding?
The Wastelink funding will fuel tech enhancements, new product categories, and geographical expansion, including potential exports.
Saket Dave shared plans to address more waste streams and scale operations globally.
This aligns with India’s sustainability goals, offering a roadmap for founders to leverage funding for growth while tackling environmental challenges.
Why Is Wastelink Funding a Game-Changer for Startups?
Wastelink funding signals a shift toward cleantech in India, where sustainable solutions are gaining traction.
It proves niche innovations can attract significant capital, even in tough funding climates. The startup’s impact—reducing emissions and creating jobs (50%+ female factory staff)—sets a benchmark for social and environmental ROI.
Startup INDIAX believes Wastelink’s story will inspire entrepreneurs to pursue purpose-driven ventures.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Wastelink funding is more than a financial win; it’s a beacon for sustainable innovation. By turning food waste into valuable feed, Wastelink shows how startups can drive impact and profit.
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