Jaipur-based quick service restaurant (QSR) chain, Nothing Before Coffee (NBC), has raised $2.3 million in a Pre-Series A funding round, led by Prath Ventures, with participation from SYL Investments.
The startup plans to use this capital to expand its retail presence, targeting the opening of 150+ outlets across India by March 2026.
Focused particularly on Tier-II and Tier-III cities, NBC also intends to invest in new store formats, such as compact kiosks, and enhance its digital infrastructure, supply chain, and team capabilities.
Founded in 2017 by Ankesh Jain, Akshay Kedia, Shubham Bhandari, and Anand Jain, NBC currently operates 85+ outlets across 35 cities in India and Portugal.
In addition to its café offerings, NBC also sells branded merchandise, including instant coffee, mugs, and tumblers through its online store.
“The capital will help us deepen our presence, invest in technology and talent, and unlock the next phase of growth as we work towards becoming India’s most loved and accessible coffee chain,” said Ankesh Jain, cofounder of NBC.
The brand is disrupting the coffee market with its affordable coffee options and Indian-inspired innovations, such as the ‘Shrappe’, a desi twist on the traditional frappe.
NBC’s business model revolves around a “youth-first” approach, offering affordable, high-quality coffee in aesthetically designed cafés that cater to India’s growing aspirational youth. These vibrant spaces are designed to create a social and engaging atmosphere for customers.
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According to Custom Market Insights, India’s coffee chain market is expected to reach a $323.8 million opportunity by 2033, highlighting the growth potential for NBC and its competitors.
NBC’s approach places it in competition with other homegrown QSR chains such as Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters and Third Wave Coffee Roasters.
