Gangtok: Agapi Sikkim, a sustainable skincare brand from Sikkim, made history when it became the first women-led start-up from the state that attracted equity infusion from foreign-led prominent investors, with a market valuation of $1 million (Rs 8.3 crores).

Agapi sought to redefine “eco-conscious skincare” and empower “marginalized indigenous women” when it was co-founded by Rinzing Choden Bhutia from Gangtok and Varsha Shrestha, the company said in a release.

The brand, through its products, seeks to contribute to a “greener future” and “global appeal”, and making “conscious consumer choices accessible to all.”

“With this funding, Agapi will enhance its product range and accelerate its growth trajectory towards becoming one of the top natural skincare brands”, the company asserted in a release.

Agapi’s mission, said Rinzing, is to empower, uplift, and redefine skincare while preserving the “unique heritage” of Sikkim. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to bring our vision to life”, she added.

The company in a statement said that investors in the historic funding round included “luminaries from major venture capital firms, and global impact investors" including Japan-based Arun seed and Ahaana Ventures.

According to its founders, Agapi in addition to securing contracts withinternational hotel chains like JW Marriott and Taj hotels, also launched its line of process across the Northeast and West Bengal.

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