Agri-Tech Innovation & Infrastructure

Agri-Tech Innovation & Infrastructure Scheme

Overview

The Agri-Tech Innovation & Infrastructure Grant Scheme is aimed at promoting modernization, efficiency, and sustainability in the agriculture sector through the adoption of advanced technologies, innovative products, and integrated infrastructure systems.

This scheme provides financial assistance of up to ₹7.5 Lakhs to eligible farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, startups, and innovators working to transform agriculture through technology-driven solutions.

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Key Objectives

The primary objectives of the scheme are:

Financial Assistance

This scheme aims to bridge the gap between traditional agriculture and modern technology by empowering stakeholders with financial support and strategic guidance. It encourages the development of a sustainable, technology-driven agricultural ecosystem that benefits farmers, consumers, and the economy at large.

Maximum Grant Amount: ₹7.5 lakh
Funding Type: Grant-based (non-repayable, subject to compliance)
Disbursement: Milestone-based funding

Focus Areas

The scheme supports high-impact projects across the following key domains:

Eligibility Criteria

Present a scalable and innovative solution
Demonstrate impact on agricultural productivity or efficiency
Show the feasibility and sustainability of the project
Have a clear implementation roadmap
Preferably include technology integration

Individual farmers and farmer groups
Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
Agri-startups and innovators
Proprietorships, partnerships, and registered companies
Technology developers working in agriculture

Evaluation Criteria

Innovation and uniqueness
Technological integration
Market potential and scalability
Social and economic impact
Feasibility and execution capability
Sustainability and environmental impact

Application Process

Phase 1

Online Submission

Submit via the official portal.

Required: Aadhaar/PAN, idea summary, basic pitch deck (PDF), and responses to questionnaire.

Deadline: Rolling/announced cohorts (check portal for current cycle).

Phase 2

Initial Screening

Review our experts and sector mentors.

Top applicants shortlisted based on submission quality.

Phase 3

Virtual Pitch and Interviews

10-15 minute pitch + Q&A (focus: idea clarity, execution plan, personal drive).

Prototype feasibility assessment (virtual demos encouraged).

Phase 4

Award and Disbursement

Grant agreement signed; funds in milestone-based tranches.

Mandatory progress reporting; feedback for all applicants.

Audits, as mentioned in the Grant Agreement

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can apply for this grant?

The scheme is open to:

Individual farmers
Farmer groups and FPOs
Agri-startups and innovators
Proprietorships, partnerships, and registered companies
Technology developers working in agriculture

2. What is the maximum funding available?

Eligible applicants can receive funding of up to ₹7.5 Lakhs, depending on the scope, scalability, and impact of the project.

3. Is the grant repayable?

No, this is a non-repayable grant, subject to meeting project milestones and compliance requirements.

4. What types of projects are supported?

The scheme supports:

Agri-tech innovations (AI, IoT, drones, automation)
Cold storage and warehousing infrastructure
Agri-processing and value-added products
Mobile applications and farm software
Supply chain and farm-to-consumer delivery systems

5. Can startups apply for this scheme?

Yes, agri-startups and early-stage innovators are strongly encouraged to apply, especially those with technology-driven solutions.

6. Are individual farmers eligible without a company registration?

Yes, individual farmers can apply. However, having a structured entity (like FPO or business registration) may strengthen the application.

7. How is the grant disbursed?

The grant is released in milestone-based installments, based on project progress and verification.

8. What is the selection process?

The process includes:

Application submission

Screening and shortlisting

Pitch presentation

Evaluation by expert panel

Final approval and grant sanction

9. What are the key evaluation criteria?

Projects are evaluated based on:
• Innovation and uniqueness
• Use of technology
• Scalability and market potential
• Impact on farmers and agriculture
• Feasibility and execution plan

10. Can I apply with an idea-stage project?

Yes, idea-stage projects are eligible if they demonstrate strong innovation, feasibility, and potential impact.

11. Are digital platforms and mobile apps eligible?

Yes, solutions such as:
• Farmer advisory apps
• Agri marketplaces
• Farm management software
• Supply chain tracking systems
are fully supported under this scheme.

12. Is co-funding or investment required from the applicant?

While not mandatory, applicant contribution or co-investment may strengthen the proposal and improve approval chances.

13. Can funding be used for infrastructure like cold storage?

Yes, funding can be utilized for:
• Cold storage units
• Warehousing
• Logistics infrastructure
• Solar-powered storage systems

14. What is the project duration?

Depending on the nature and scale of the project.

15. Will mentorship or support be provided?

Yes, selected applicants receive:

Technical mentorship
Business advisory
Market linkage support

16. Can multiple applicants apply jointly?

Yes, joint applications (e.g., farmer + tech partner, startup + FPO) are encouraged for stronger implementation.

17. What documents are required for application?

Typically required documents include:

Project proposal/business plan

Applicant identity and registration documents
Financial projections
Technical details of the solution

18. Can the grant be used for product development?

Yes, funding can be used for:

Product development
Prototyping
Technology implementation
Pilot testing

19. What happens after grant approval?

After approval:

A formal agreement is signed
Funds are released in phases
Progress is monitored through milestones
Final evaluation is conducted upon completion