This cohort-based program aims to bridge the gap between innovation and commercial viability in the agricultural and allied industries.

• •Core Focus: Agri-Tech (e.g., precision farming, farm automation, soil tech) and Food Processing (e.g., post-harvest technology, value addition, cold chain).
• •Grant Limit: Up to ₹5 Lakh per selected startup as grant-in-aid.
• •Mechanism: Implemented through designated incubators, typically affiliated with agricultural universities or specialized technology centres.

• •Dedicated Mentoring: Structured guidance from industry veterans, successful agri-entrepreneurs, and subject matter experts.
• •Business Model Refinement: Assistance in fine-tuning the value proposition, scalability, and revenue model for the agri-food sector.
• •Technical Support: Access to labs and facilities for product testing, quality analysis, and prototype refinement.
• •Market Linkages: Facilitation of connects with FPOs, large corporate buyers, and potential distributors.

• •Startup Stage: Early-stage startups, ideally at the Proof-of-Concept (PoC) or Minimum Viable Product (MVP) stage.
• •Sector: Must be operating in the Agri-Tech or Food Processing sector.
• •Legal Entity: Must be a legally registered entity in India (Pvt Ltd, LLP) and recognised by DPIIT (in many cases).
• •Commitment: Founders must commit to full participation in the structured cohort program.

The scheme invites applications periodically, followed by a rigorous selection process.

• •Application Call: Apply online through the portal of the incubator managing the current cohort.
• •Submission: Submit a detailed application, including a business plan, team profile, and financial projections.
• •Shortlisting & Pitching: Shortlisted startups are invited to pitch their idea to an expert committee.
• •Incubation: Selected startups enter the cohort for a defined period (e.g., 3-6 months) and receive the grant in tranches tied to milestone achievements.