Pickleball, a sport that blends elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is rapidly gaining popularity in India. Recognizing this momentum, ServeClub, a homegrown pickleball gear brand, has secured seed funding to further its mission of making quality equipment accessible to Indian players.
A Diverse Team with a Shared Vision:
Founded in 2024 by a group of students from the US, Cuba, Mexico, Germany, and India during their time at Terr College of Business, ServeClub aims to bridge the gap in the Indian pickleball market. The team identified a lack of affordable, high-quality equipment as a barrier to the sport’s growth in the country.
Affordable, Quality Equipment:
ServeClub offers USAPA-certified pickleball paddles priced between INR 7,000 and INR 9,000, approximately half the cost of leading international brands. This pricing strategy is designed to make the sport more accessible to a broader audience in India.
Strategic Partnerships and Growth Plans:
The company has already partnered with over 25 entities, including pickleball courts, clubs, and fitness brands. With the new funding, ServeClub plans to:
- Expand its product line
- Enhance direct-to-consumer operations
- Organize community engagement events
- Grow monthly sales by 20–25% over the next two quarters
These initiatives aim to foster greater adoption of pickleball across India.
Investor Confidence:
The seed funding round saw participation from notable industry leaders, including:
- Manish Poddar, Co-founder of Rare Rabbit
- Pratham Mittal, Founder of Masters’ Union and Tetr
- Malika Sadani, Co-founder of The Moms Co.
Their investment underscores confidence in ServeClub’s vision and the potential of pickleball in India.
The Rise of Pickleball in India:
Introduced to India in 2006, pickleball has seen a surge in popularity, with over 50,000 players and nearly 500 courts nationwide as of late 2024 . The sport’s accessibility and social nature have contributed to its rapid growth, attracting players of all ages.
ServeClub’s Role in the Ecosystem:
By providing affordable, high-quality equipment, ServeClub is playing a pivotal role in supporting the sport’s expansion. The company’s focus on community engagement and partnerships is helping to build a robust pickleball ecosystem in India.
Looking Ahead:
With the new funding, ServeClub is poised to:
- Develop new products tailored to Indian players
- Expand its reach through online and offline channels
- Host events to promote the sport
- Strengthen partnerships with clubs and fitness centers
These efforts aim to solidify ServeClub’s position as a leading brand in India’s pickleball landscape.
