AC Maker Optimist in Talks to Raise $10 Mn From TDK Ventures
Indian air conditioning startup Optimist is in discussions to raise approximately $10 million in a new funding round from TDK Ventures. The company was founded in 2024 by former Urban Ladder co-founder Ashish Goel.
Delhi NCR-based air conditioning startup Optimist is in talks to raise about $10 million in a fresh funding round from TDK Ventures, sources told Inc42. TDK Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of Japan’s TDK Corporation, would be a new addition to the startup’s cap table.
The discussions are ongoing, and the final cheque size could change before the round is closed. It is unclear if the proposed investment is part of an extension of the startup's previously announced $12 million seed and pre-Series A round or a separate funding round.
Founded in 2024 by former Urban Ladder co-founder Ashish Goel and Pranav Chopra, Optimist builds air conditioners designed specifically for Indian conditions, where high temperatures, humidity, and electricity costs make cooling essential and expensive. The startup aims to address India's low air-conditioner penetration.
Optimist operates an in-house R&D facility in Gurugram, focusing on thermodynamics, heat transfer, humidity control, and airflow optimization. The startup launched its products about two months ago through its website and Amazon, with an initial presence in Delhi NCR, Rajasthan, and western Uttar Pradesh. It is also expanding its offline retail footprint.