Exclusive: AC Maker Optimist In Talks To Raise $10 Mn From TDK Ventures

Delhi NCR-based startup Optimist is reportedly in discussions to secure approximately $10 million in fresh funding from TDK Ventures, according to sources speaking to Inc42. TDK Ventures, a corporate venture arm of Japan’s TDK Corporation, is expected to join the company's investor list. The talks are ongoing, and the final investment amount may vary before the round is finalized.

However, it remains unclear if this investment is part of the previous $12 million seed and pre-Series A round led by Accel and Arkam Ventures, or if it represents a separate funding round. Optimist's spokesperson declined to confirm the reported information to Inc42 at the time of publication. Founded by former Urban Ladder co-founder Ashish Goel and Pranav Chopra in 2024, Optimist specializes in air conditioners tailored for India's unique climate conditions.

With more than 300 million households in India, only 27-28 million currently own an AC, despite nearly 90% of households residing in areas with high heat exposure. Goel highlighted the significant business opportunity and the pressing need for technological solutions in the Indian market. The company has an R&D center in Gurugram where they have been working on thermodynamics, heat transfer, humidity control, and airflow optimization.

Optimist's products are available on their website and Amazon, with initial coverage in Delhi NCR, Rajasthan, and western Uttar Pradesh. The startup is also expanding its physical retail presence. The move aligns with the growing investor interest in India's home appliance sector, as evidenced by Helium Air's recent $2 million seed round and the broader trend of D2C appliance startups focusing on energy efficiency, smart connectivity, aesthetics, and compact designs.