Bengaluru-based sports tech startup, KIBI Sports, has successfully raised $100,000 in a pre-seed funding round led by a group of angel investors, including Saurabh Aggarwal, Arpit Bhardwaj, Vartika Joshi, Suryansh Jain, Pranjal Bansal, Amit Kumar Sahu, Pratibha Rani, and Sushila.
This funding adds to the $129,000 previously secured from investors like Lakshmana Padmanabhan, underscoring the growing confidence in KIBI’s vision for transforming India’s sports ecosystem.
Founded in 2020 by Sagar Rai, KIBI Sports addresses key challenges in the sports industry by providing athletes with much-needed financial support and professional opportunities. The company’s innovative platform fosters collaboration among athletes, brands, and institutions, aiming to create a thriving and sustainable sports ecosystem.
With the newly secured funds, KIBI Sports plans to scale its operations, enhance its technological capabilities, and broaden its reach to underserved regions. The platform is particularly focused on empowering stakeholders in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, where access to resources and recognition remains limited.
KIBI Sports operates through three key verticals:
- A digital marketplace for sports equipment and merchandise, streamlining transactions for athletes and institutions.
- A sponsorship platform that connects athletes and institutions with brands, creating opportunities for funding and collaboration.
- A streamlined sports event management system for easy registration and booking, simplifying logistics for participants and organizers.
The startup’s impact is already evident, with over 20,000 athletes and 800 sports institutions onboarded. Additionally, KIBI Sports has facilitated several sponsorship deals, further solidifying its role as a game-changer in the industry.
Commenting on the funding, founder Sagar Rai said, “Our goal has always been to create a robust and inclusive sports ecosystem in India. This funding not only validates our mission but also provides us with the resources to expand our impact. By addressing the critical gaps in financial support, visibility, and access to opportunities, we aim to empower athletes and transform the sports landscape.”
The Indian sports industry is witnessing rapid growth, with projections estimating it will reach $100 billion by 2027. KIBI Sports is strategically positioned to capitalize on this momentum by offering scalable solutions tailored to the needs of the evolving sector.
As the company continues to expand, it aims to bring greater visibility to underrepresented sports and ensure that athletes, particularly from less urbanized regions, have access to the resources and opportunities needed to thrive. With its innovative approach and growing investor backing, KIBI Sports is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Indian sports
