STCH, an AI startup that works on fabric development and textile manufacturing, has raised US$7 million in a pre-Series A funding round led by Omnivore, with support from Kae Capital and WVC.
The company will use this money to improve its AI technology, set up a fabric research and development lab, strengthen partnerships with manufacturers, and expand its services in important markets.
According to STCH co-founder and CEO Narahari Payala, most AI work in the fashion industry is focused on areas that customers see, like design or shopping. However, he believes the bigger opportunity is in the supply chain—especially in manufacturing, which mainly happens in Asian countries.
“Fabric, in particular, is the most critical yet least optimised layer. With improving trade dynamics, including free trade agreements with the UK and Europe as well as easing tariffs from the USA, we believe this is a defining moment to build a globally leading, AI-native textile innovation powerhouse from India,” said Payala.
Omnivore Managing Partner Mark Kahn said, “Narahari and Aseem bring rare depth as they understand both the materials science and the supply chain realities of getting sustainable textiles to market at scale. India has the raw materials, the mills, and now – with STCH – the AI-native platform is set to become the world’s leading source of sustainable textile innovation.”
Founded in 2025 by Narahari Payala and Aseem Chitkara, STCH a startup based in Bengaluru is building an AI-powered platform for fabric research and manufacturing. It helps fashion brands create and supply stylish, high-quality and eco-friendly fabrics in bulk.
The company uses AI to track global fashion trends, design sustainable fabrics, and deliver them through its manufacturing network across India and other parts of Asia. Its platform also helps brands choose environmentally friendly materials and improve their supply chain.
STCH says it has already received orders worth more than $15 million from brands in the UK, Europe, and the United States.
Read More- Robotics firm Pudu Robotics raises $150 million round
