Source: FinSMEs
NapTapGo: Pod hotel startup NapTapGo has secured ₹2 crores (nearly $233K) in its pre-seed funding round from Inflection Point Ventures (IPV). The start-up will use the funding to expand its franchise network, enhance marketing programmes and enhance systems through technology advancements. With this new funding, NapTapGo will be looking to strengthen its position across India, specifically urban cities and high-footfall religious locations.
Reinventing Budget Hospitality
Created by Nitin Malhotra and Himanshu Shukla, NapTapGo provides compact, affordable and adaptable spaces for contemporary travelers. Smart for travelers needing short-stay options, such as for only a few hours or a night. As travel needs change and customer habits evolve, NapTapGo provides a degree of freedom not always available with old-school hotels. It has a very distinctive model enabling hourly bookings, flexible check-in and it deploys AI powered operations in the process of achieving efficiencies through less manual reins. work and boost productivity. This category is designed in particular for pilgrims who are seeking comfort at an affordable price, workers, people in transit and solo travellers.
Digital-First and Service-Focused
NapTapGo has taken a digital-first approach by providing direct booking options on its website and via WhatsApp. The startup says that 65% of its bookings are generated from these channels directly, so that indicates that customers do want fast, simple and personable approaches to making appointments. Which is why, by eliminating reliance on third-party travel applications, NapTapGo can provide lower prices and a closer relationship with its client base.
Industry-Knowledgeable Founders with Founding Experience
NapTapGo’s strength also comes in the form of its founders’ experience. Nitin Malhotra also has a rich technology experience behind him and has previously worked with companies such as Texas Instruments and STMicroelectronics. Himanshu Shukla, on the other hand, has hospitality stints at Chaayos and Jaypee Resorts under his belt. Between the two of them, a nice blend of tech and hospitality know-how and you have the ability to ride between consumer and customer while NapTapGo brings that new tech, but not too techy option.
Strong Support and Acknowledgment
Along with investment from IPV, Balmer Lawrie, a government-owned company that invests in emerging entrepreneurs, has also contributed to NapTapGo. This support provides industry reputation in addition to cash assistance. Furthermore, NapTapGo received public exposure and public trust after Anand Mahindra, a well-known Indian business leader, commended the company for its astute approach to reasonably priced travel.
Gazing Ahead
NapTapGo is in an excellent position to take the lead in the low-cost hospitality industry thanks to its unique offering, strong leadership, and expanding support. As India’s tourism industry develops, NapTapGo wants to cater to modern tourists by offering flexible, reasonably priced, and technologically advanced lodging options.
