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Rohit Chouhan, co-founder and CEO, Nabhdrishti & Arjun Srivatsa, Co-Founder and COO, Nabhdrishti
Nabhdrishti Aerospace, a deeptech startup founded in 2023 by Rohit Chouhan and Arjun Srivatsa, has recently secured Rs 3 crore in a pre-seed funding round.
The funding round was led by IIMA Ventures, formerly known as IIMA-CIIE. The capital influx marks a significant milestone for the company, which aims to pioneer the development of indigenous gas turbine engines.
Purpose of the funding
The raised funds are earmarked for the development of a fuel flex combustor prototype. This involves comprehensive testing of the fuel injector and combustor, enabling Nabhdrishti Aerospace to demonstrate its proprietary fuel flex technology. The technology promises to offer clean fuel compatibility and enhanced efficiency, aligning with global sustainability efforts.
The startup also plans to recruit top-tier talent, invest in advanced tools, and enhance its testing infrastructure.
"This infusion of capital empowers us to accelerate our first product development," said Rohit Chouhan, co-founder and CEO. The startup aims to expand its product range within the 300 SHP to 1000 SHP power spectrum, further diversifying its offerings.
The ND350 Engine
Nabhdrishti Aerospace's inaugural product, the ND350 Engine, is expected to hit the market by Q3 2025. This engine is designed to operate in two modes.
In turbogenerator mode, it can produce 275 KW of power, suitable for backup power generation, range extenders, and marine propulsion. When configured in turboprop mode, the engine delivers 350 SHP, making it ideal for powering UAVs and air taxis. The ND350's versatility and eco-friendly design are poised to set it apart in the competitive aerospace market.
IIMA Ventures' role and vision
IIMA Ventures, having recently launched a deep tech pre-seed accelerator fund in collaboration with SIDBI, chose Nabhdrishti Aerospace as its first investment from this initiative.
Vipul Patel, Partner of Seed Investing at IIMA Ventures, commented on the investment's significance, noting, "Building something as complex as a microgas turbine in a multibillion-dollar market requires a deep understanding of a multitude of factors, such as gestation period, cost-efficient testing infrastructure, intellectual team-building skills, customer nuances, etc."