With a corpus of ₹300 crore, this scheme, sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) and NABARD, is designed to address the challenges and create opportunities in the Indian agriculture sector.
The Agri-Sure Fund is focused on supporting startups working on innovative solutions to agriculture-related challenges, such as farm mechanization, food processing, animal husbandry, and agritech.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through the Agri-Sure Fund Scheme, including:
- What is the Agri-Sure Fund?
- Agri-Sure Fund eligibility criteria for startups
- Focus areas supported by the scheme
- Agri-Sure Fund details and benefits
- Documents required for Agri-Sure Fund application
- How to apply for the fund
What is the Agri-Sure Fund?
The Agri-Sure Fund is an initiative designed to support early-stage startups in the agriculture and rural development sectors. With an initial corpus of ₹300 crore, the fund focuses on helping agribusinesses and agritech startups overcome the financial and operational barriers they face during their early growth stages.
The scheme is aimed at technology-driven startups that are focused on solving the core challenges faced by the agriculture sector through innovation and scalable solutions.
Unlike a without security business loan, the Agri-Sure Fund is registered as a Category-II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) with SEBI. Investments are made in the form of equity, compulsory convertible preference shares, or other equity-linked instruments.
This initiative is a major step toward accelerating the commercialization of innovative solutions, similar to how the MeitY Genesis EIR 2 supports tech startups.
Key Features of the Agri-Sure Fund Scheme:
- Corpus Size: ₹300 crore dedicated to early-stage agritech startups.
- Investment Type: Equity or convertible preference shares (AIF Category II).
- Investment Size: Up to ₹25 crore per startup, depending on the stage and potential.
- Eligibility: Must be DPIIT-recognized and working in agriculture or rural development.
Are you an early-stage agritech startup looking for funding? Apply for the Agri-Sure Fund and get up to ₹25 crore in investment to scale your agri-business!
Eligibility Criteria for Agri-Sure Fund Scheme
To be eligible for the Agri-Sure Fund Scheme, your startup must meet specific technical and legal requirements. Understanding the Agri-Sure Fund eligibility is crucial before you start your business registration process.
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Startup Type | Must be a Private Limited Company, LLP, or Partnership. |
| DPIIT Recognition | Must be recognized under the Startup India scheme. |
| Technology Readiness Level | Must have a working product and TRL 5 or above (ready for commercialization). |
| Focus Areas | Agribusiness, food processing, agritech, or animal husbandry. |
| Financial Health | Should show clear potential for scalability and market traction. |
| Stage | Early-stage startups focused on innovation. |
Focus Areas of the Agri-Sure Fund Scheme
The fund specifically targets innovative startups addressing farming, food security, and rural development. If you are a woman entrepreneur, you may also combine this with the Mahila Empowerment Scheme for broader support.
- Agri Inputs: Innovations in seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides.
- Animal Husbandry & Dairying: Improving animal health and dairy practices (See AHIDF Scheme).
- Post-Harvest & Food Processing: Technologies for storage, packaging, and waste management.
- Precision Farming: IoT, drones, and data analytics for smart farming (Aligned with mobility innovation).
- Biotechnology: Solutions for plant growth and crop protection.
- Renewable Energy: Solar-powered irrigation and sustainable practices.
- Supply Chain & Logistics: Startups working on warehousing and logistics in rural India.
Benefits of the Agri-Sure Fund Scheme
The Agri-Sure Fund details highlight that this is not just a loan, but a growth partnership.
- Significant Investment: Up to ₹25 crore in equity, much higher than a spark grant.
- Milestone-based Funding: Capital is released as the startup achieves growth targets.
- Expert Mentorship: Access to world-class mentors through MSME growth advisory sessions.
- Networking: Connection with NABARD's vast network of industry experts and investors.
- Market Access: Exposure to commercialization pathways and distribution networks.
Documents Required for Agri-Sure Fund
To apply, you must ensure your startup health program metrics and documents are ready. The Documents required for Agri-Sure Fund include:
- Company Registration: Incorporation Certificate, MoA, and AoA.
- DPIIT Recognition: Recognition certificate confirming eligibility under Startup India.
- Pitch Deck: A detailed deck (similar to a grant for ventures pitch) explaining the solution and traction.
- Financials: Audited statements, tax exemption status, and fund utilization plans.
- Technology Description: Roadmap showing TRL 5+ progress.
- Founders' CVs: Resumes of the core team.
- Compliance: MSME certification and IP filings.
Gather your documents and apply for the Agri-Sure Fund today to get up to ₹25 crore in seed funding for your agri-business!
How to Apply for the Agri-Sure Fund Scheme
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply for the Agri-Sure Fund:
- Step 1: Prepare Required Documents
- Step 2: Submit Your Application
- Step 3: Application Review
- Step 4: Interview & Selection
- Step 5: Investment & Mentorship
Is There a Deadline for Applying to the Agri-Sure Fund Scheme?
The Agri-Sure Fund accepts applications on a rolling basis. However, it is advisable to apply early as funds are disbursed based on the quality of intake. For more tips on how government grants work, consult with experts.
Conclusion: Why Apply for the Agri-Sure Fund?
The Agri-Sure Fund provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for agritech startups to scale. With up to ₹25 crore in funding and NABARD's backing, it is the perfect platform to solve India's farming challenges.
If you are passionate about sustainable farming or food tech, this fund is your path to success. For more insights on such opportunities, check the truth about Infotree services.
FAQs: Agri-Sure Fund Scheme
It is a ₹300 crore fund helping early-stage agri-startups scale via equity-linked investments.