- Disrupt.com and Zayn VC led a USD 5.5 million seed funding round for LAAM, a global marketplace for South Asian fashion, with support from Graph Ventures, Mentors Fund, and tech leaders.
- The funds will support LAAM’s expansion into the Middle East, establish a regional hub, and promote local artisans to a global audience.
- LAAM empowers over 10,000 families and serves 100+ countries, contributing to the projected growth of the South Asian ethnic wear market, expected to reach USD 129 billion by 2030.
Disrupt.com and Zayn VC have led a USD 5.5 million seed funding round for LAAM, a tech-enabled South Asian fashion marketplace. The funding attracted support from Graph Ventures, Mentors Fund, and leaders from major tech firms.
The funds will enable LAAM to expand into the Middle East, establish an operational hub, and strengthen ties with local artisans, bringing their work to a global audience.
Platform and Market Growth
LAAM’s platform serves 100+ countries, promoting South Asian fashion and empowering over 10,000 families. The company is also developing its Octane platform to help businesses expand globally.
Global revenues of the South Asian ethnic wear market are to reach USD 129 billion by 2030. Nearly USD 46 billion driven by digital spending.
Arif Iqbal, CEO of LAAM Technologies said “We are delighted to secure this funding from Disrupt.com, Zayn VC, Graph Ventures, and Mentors Fund; using the proceeds to drive LAAM’s Middle East expansion and help spotlight the talented artisans operating across the region.
Technological Innovation
LAAM has developed a robust e-commerce infrastructure. The e-commerce is encompassing supply chain solutions, seller business management software, and warehousing capabilities.
“Our cutting-edge, AI-driven, tech and the timeless appeal South Asian craftsmanship helps create a seamless connection between global consumers and authentic ethnic fashion. We look forward to supporting the Middle East’s dedicated artisans, empowering them to thrive in the digital age,” Iqbal added.
Beyond its marketplace business, LAAM Technologies now offers this proprietary technology and infrastructure as a platform called Octane. The platform is to help businesses establish an online presence and expand globally.
Octane aligns with LAAM’s mission to empower South Asian sellers and is positioned for significant growth in the coming year.
Investor Endorsement
“LAAM’s ability to elevate South Asian fashion onto the global stage while empowering local artisans and sellers is commendable. We believe LAAM has a unique opportunity to transform how South Asian fashion is perceived and accessed globally. We’re proud to support their journey” said Faisal Aftab, Managing Partner at Zayn VC.
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