Bengaluru-based startup STCH has come out of stealth mode after securing $5.5 million in a Pre-Series A funding round. The investment was led by Omnivore, with participation from Kae Capital and White Venture Capital.
STCH is building an AI-powered platform focused on fabric research, development, and manufacturing. Its goal is to help global fashion brands create high-performing, trend-driven, and sustainable textiles at scale.
The company has been operating quietly until now but has already built a strong order book of over $15 million. It serves well-known global brands such as Roman, Joe Browns, Shein, Crocodile, Being Human, CP Brands, and Rainforest across markets including the UK, Europe, the US, and India.
Founded by Narahari Payala and Aseem Chitkara, both former leaders at Zetwerk, the startup combines deep expertise in textiles and manufacturing. Their experience and industry connections have helped STCH build strong partnerships with mills and global brands.
At the core of STCH’s platform is an AI engine that works on two key areas. First, it improves fabric R&D by developing new textile compositions that increase the use of sustainable materials without affecting performance or cost. Second, it optimizes supply chains by matching fabric demand with the right manufacturing capacity, enabling faster and more efficient production.
The company is focused on reducing the fashion industry’s reliance on synthetic materials that contribute to microplastic pollution and environmental damage. By enabling the use of sustainable fibers, STCH aims to support brands in meeting their sustainability goals.
Narahari Payala, Co-founder and CEO, said that while most AI innovation in fashion is happening at the front end, STCH is focusing on the backend — including fibers, fabrics, and manufacturing, where the real opportunity lies.
Mark Kahn, Managing Partner at Omnivore, highlighted that India already has strong raw materials and manufacturing capabilities, and platforms like STCH can help position the country as a global leader in sustainable textile innovation.
The fresh capital will be used to strengthen STCH’s AI capabilities, set up an advanced fabric R&D lab, expand partnerships with textile mills, and scale its services for global fashion brands.
As sustainability becomes a priority for the global fashion industry, STCH is aiming to play a key role by combining technology with manufacturing to deliver better, greener textile solutions.
