Welkinrim, a pioneering deep tech startup specializing in cutting-edge drone propulsion subsystems, recently announced a significant funding achievement, securing ₹4.76 crore. This impressive investment round saw contributions from several key players: ₹2.35 crore from GSF, ₹1.5 crore from Campus Angels Network, ₹0.5 crore from AC Ventures, and ₹0.4 crore from Forge Innovation and Ventures.
Operating out of the IIT-Madras Incubation Cell, Welkinrim is at the forefront of developing next-generation motors and electronic speed controllers (ESCs). These two components are absolutely vital to the electric propulsion systems of modern drones. Welkinrim designs these advanced parts specifically for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) within the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) industry. Their technology supports a wide range of drone applications, including those used in defense, surveillance, agriculture, and logistics.
The newly acquired funds will be strategically deployed to boost Welkinrim’s in-house manufacturing capacity for their high-performance drone motors and ESCs. A crucial part of their plan involves validating these innovative products with Indian drone OEMs, spanning both the defense and commercial sectors. Additionally, the startup is committed to strengthening its core engineering team and investing in state-of-the-art testing infrastructure. Welkinrim aims to establish robust partnerships with drone manufacturers, both within India and internationally.
Dinesh Natarajan, Founder and CEO of Welkinrim, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This investment is a game-changer, enabling us to transition our propulsion subsystems from the laboratory directly into the market. We remain steadfast in our dedication to delivering unparalleled performance, efficiency, and safety.”
K. Chandran, Managing Director of Campus Angels Network, highlighted the startup’s unique value proposition: “Welkinrim’s ingenuity lies in crafting precision propulsion subsystems that are not only engineered for superior performance and reliability but also built for scalability. As the adoption of drones rapidly expands across various industries, we are confident that Welkinrim is perfectly positioned to become the leading OEM for propulsion solutions.”
Nirmal Shah, a partner at GSF, echoed this sentiment, adding, “Welkinrim’s products effectively address a critical void in the Indian UAV supply chain and possess immense global potential. This funding injection will be instrumental in accelerating their journey from initial prototyping to widespread, scaled deployments.”