3cat raises pre-series A funding to scale omnichannel circular electronics platform

• Funds will support 3cat’s goal to scale to 100 stores nationwide
• Targets 10,000 repair jobs & multi-billion-ringgit exports under the Madani framework

3cat, a Malaysian omnichannel platform for used electronics, has secured an undisclosed amount in a Pre-Series A funding round to expand its retail footprint, build in-house repair capabilities, and accelerate digital platform growth across Southeast Asia. The round was backed by The Radical Fund, Aeon, and returning investors Iterative, TA Ventures, and TheVentures.

Founded in 2023, 3cat addresses the rising demand for trustworthy, high-quality secondhand electronics in Southeast Asia, a market historically challenged by fragmentation, poor consumer experience, and counterfeit risks. With over 20 physical stores established within its first year, the company states that it is redefining circular consumption for the region’s price-sensitive and sustainability-conscious consumers.

The newly raised capital will support 3cat’s target of expanding to nearly 100 stores across Malaysia, alongside the launch of a vertically integrated refurbishment centre in Kuala Lumpur. Additionally, the company is rolling out embedded services such as device protection, financing, and mobile plans to enhance customer retention and unit economics.

“Consumer trust is critical in the second-hand electronics industry, and Southeast Asia has lacked a reliable brand with assured quality for far too long,” said Karl Loo (pic), co-founder of 3cat. “At 3cat, we’re building Malaysia’s trusted omnichannel platform for second-hand tech, combining both online and offline experiences while reducing the environmental impact of electronic waste.”

The Radical Fund, one of the new investors, highlighted 3cat’s alignment with circular economy principles.

“3cat is transforming how emerging markets approach electronics reuse—integrating digital scale with a strong focus on seamless, high-quality real-world experiences,” Alina Truhina, managing partner of The Radical Fund said. “The company’s model reduces e-waste, lowers carbon emissions, and democratises access to high-quality second-hand devices,” she added. 

Malaysia’s second-hand smartphone market is projected to reach US$800 million (RM3.396 billion) by 2026, yet it remains underpenetrated relative to global benchmarks. According to 3cat, its rapid traction—combined with the founders’ deep experience in e-commerce, supply chain, and mobile retail, including multiple prior exits—positions it to lead the formalisation of the sector in the region.

The company also aims to establish Malaysia as a global hub for certified electronics processing and repair, with plans to create over 10,000 skilled repair jobs and unlock a multi-billion-dollar export opportunity aligned with the national Madani sustainability framework.