Marlow, a Canada-based period care brand, has raised additional funding in a round led by Love x Money Ventures, with participation from Dream Ventures and other angel investors. This funding will allow Marlow to grow its footprint the U.S. market, further develop its Amazon channel, and create new products. The company has now raised a total of $1.9 million, including non-dilutive funding from grants and pitch competition wins.
Marlow created the first-ever lubricated tampon designed for smoother and more comfortable insertion. The company cites that 1 in 3 women (55 million in North America) experience vaginal dryness, causing pain when inserting tampons, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
The startup was founded by Nadia Ladak, Simone Godbout, Harit Sohal, and Kiara Botha during their last year at the Ivey Business School at Western University. The founders, who were swimmers, dancers, and athletes as teens, developed Marlow in response to their personal experiences with uncomfortable tampon insertion.
Marlow’s product includes a travel-friendly, compact, and leak-proof bottle of lubricant for dipping the tampon, featuring a cross slit valve for mess-free application. The tampons are made with 100% organic cotton and use a plant-based applicator and compostable packaging.
Nadia Ladak, co-founder of Marlow, stated, “We’re focusing on strategically growing our marketing and sales efforts in the U.S.”
The company reports that its products are currently stocked in over 200 retailers across Canada and the U.S., including Whole Foods. Marlow’s Amazon channel is experiencing 50% growth month-over-month.
Beyond product innovation, Marlow has created the TMI Club, which aims to educate and debunk myths about menstrual health through a podcast and social media content.
