Startup news and updates: Daily roundup (September 18, 2026)

In the realm of startup news, MoroMaa, a beauty and lifestyle brand, secured Rs 1.5 crore from AJ VC, marking its 9 percent equity stake. The company, launched in June 2026, aims to develop products, enhance distribution, and expand its reach in the burgeoning M Beauty category, utilizing Moroccan-sourced ingredients. Meanwhile, Neeman's set its sights on a Rs 1,000 crore business within three years, aiming to establish 500 retail stores nationwide.

The company, currently generating Rs 185 crore annually, intends to bolster its offline footprint alongside its digital-first strategy, focusing on product, supply chain, and retail execution.

In the world of celebrity investments, actress Nikita Dutta made a strategic move into the consumer space by investing in Zinara, a lab-grown diamond jewellery brand. Harshit Abrol, Zinara's Co-founder and CEO, anticipates Dutta's fashion and cultural expertise to guide the brand. Zinara specializes in modern designs crafted from lab-grown diamonds.

Meanwhile, Raptee.HV began its electric motorcycle deliveries in Bengaluru, targeting over 100 units by November for Chennai and Bengaluru. The company also set up a service centre in HSR Layout, operational from Monday to Saturday, to support owners and ensure timely maintenance. Lastly, Asiana Fund and Taiwan-based JC Capital jointly launched the Rs 1,000 crore Asiana JCC Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Fund.

The fund, consisting of a Rs 600 crore corpus and a Rs 400 crore greenshoe, will back IP-led, growth-stage companies in advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, materials, sustainability, aerospace, and defence sectors.