Healthtech startup Viraa Care raises $108,000 in a pre-seed funding round

Viraa Care, a healthtech startup focused on infant nutrition and pediatric feeding, has raised $108,000 in a pre-seed funding round.

This funding adds to the $100,000 the startup previously secured in January 2024, bringing total pre-seed investments to $208,000. 

The recent round included foreign direct investment from a European angel investor.

Focus on scientific and practical nutrition guidance

Founded in 2023 by Sonal Babbar-Bhardwaj and Mayank Bhardwaj, Viraa Care offers parents expert advice and courses that emphasize science-backed nutrition and baby care practices.

The platform’s core mission is to help families move away from processed baby products and adopt a diet for their children that prioritizes fresh, nutrient-dense foods without preservatives or artificial additives. 

Sonal Babbar-Bhardwaj stressed the importance of this approach, stating, “Indian mothers shoulder the responsibility of feeding their children, yet they often lack the right support. Many are influenced by food company marketing to make choices that do not always prioritize their child’s best interests. At Viraa Care, we aim to empower mothers by offering clear, unbiased advice grounded in science.”

Tailored programs and international ambitions

Viraa Care’s offerings include personalized one-on-one consultations and live courses. The three-month consultation program provides parents with direct guidance from experts, covering breastfeeding, the introduction of solid foods, and overall baby nutrition.

Live courses consist of recorded modules followed by interactive sessions, enabling parents to ask questions and receive real-time feedback.

Viraa Care would use the raised capital to scale its growth, expand reach and enhance its offerings in the parenting and healthcare space.

This approach aims to build a robust support system for Indian parents, reducing the reliance on commercial marketing and focusing on scientifically sound practices.

Growth and platform expansion

The startup claims that it has conducted over 500 sessions and witnessed a 2x month-on-month increase in its customer base. 

Mayank Bhardwaj highlighted the company’s vision: “With this funding, we are not just growing Viraa Care; we are revolutionizing how Indian families approach feeding, childcare, and nutrition. Our goal is to build a system that rivals the best in the world, grounded in science and evidence-based practices. India needs a robust support system for parents—one based on trust, not marketing gimmicks."

Viraa Care plans to develop new workshops on essential parenting topics, including breastfeeding, infant nutrition, and overall child development.