Austin, TX-based Skoka, a nicotine pouch company, has raised $21.5 million to support product development, manufacturing expansion, and regulatory preparations. The company has also submitted a bundled Premarket Tobacco Product Application (PMTA) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) covering 55 products across 11 varieties and five strengths.
Founded in 2024 by Dan Aziz, Skoka developed its own formulations and flavor system rather than relying on white-label products. The company has committed $15 million to its regulatory program which includes scientific research and three completed pharmacokinetic studies.
“I wanted a nicotine pouch that used plant-based sweeteners and couldn’t find one,” said Aziz. “Adults who use pouches every day want to know what’s in them and who’s standing behind them. We started from zero so we could answer both.”
“We had the opportunity to go to retail last year. We turned it down,” Aziz said. “We built this company science first. We developed a differentiated base formula using ingredients not traditionally found in nicotine pouches, and then we invested in a comprehensive bundled PMTA before going to market. We’re not building this to make a quick buck. We’ve filed multiple patent applications and intend to build a lasting brand in this market.”
“I have been a long-time nicotine and tobacco user and tried most pouches in the market, after my first time being introduced to Skoka, I knew I wanted to be a part of it,” said Anthony Kim.
Skoka’s investors include professional athletes, business executives, and investors from the beverage and dietary supplement industries. Named investors include media executive Darren Throop, professional golfer Anthony Kim, and hockey players Jack Eichel and Dylan Larkin.
The company manufactures its products in the United States at FDA-registered facilities and has filed two patent applications covering its ingredients and blending methods.
Skoka plans to use future funding to support commercialization and expects to begin U.S. retail distribution in 2027, subject to FDA review and the required marketing authorization. Its products are intended for adults aged 21 and older.
