About this programme
The Innovation and Agri-Entrepreneurship Development component of RKVY-RAFTAAR provides financial support and incubation for agri-startups and agri-entrepreneurs. It offers funding up to Rs 5 lakh at idea/pre-seed stage (90% grant + 10% incubatee contribution) and up to Rs 25 lakh at seed stage. Implementation involves 5 Knowledge Partners and 24 RKVY-RAFTAAR Agribusiness Incubators (R-ABIs) across India supporting 799+ agri-startups in agro-processing, agritech, digital agriculture, farm mechanization, and allied sectors. It is run by Ministry of Agriculture — RKVY-RAFTAAR.
A grant is financial support you don’t repay — awarded against eligibility and, usually, agreed milestones or utilisation of funds. The amount and form of support that actually apply to you depend on the programme’s rules and how your application is assessed — they are not fixed for every applicant.
It is aimed at businesses in agriculture, agritech, allied sectors. Like most government programmes, it has its own eligibility conditions, documentation and application window, and these terms are revised from time to time. Because of that, it is worth confirming the current eligibility, amount and deadline on the official programme page before you invest time in applying.
How it works
R-ABIs issue periodic calls for applications from agri-entrepreneurs. Institutes conduct rigorous selection through multiple stages of evaluation. Selected startups undergo 2-month training and mentorship. Financial support disbursed in tranches post-training based on milestone achievement and performance review by Knowledge Partners.
Who can apply
Agri-entrepreneurs and agri-startups focused on agriculture, agritech, and allied sectors. Startups selected through rigorous competitive process by R-ABIs. Must demonstrate viability in areas like agro-processing, farm mechanization, digital agriculture, dairy, fisheries, waste-to-wealth, or agricultural innovation.
How to apply
- Monitor RKVY-RAFTAAR Agribusiness Incubator (R-ABI) websites for application calls
- Prepare business plan focused on agriculture/allied sector innovation
- Submit application to relevant R-ABI through their prescribed process
- Participate in selection evaluation (may include presentations and assessments)
- Upon selection, undergo 2-month training and mentorship programme
- Receive staged funding disbursement as milestones are met
Documents you’ll typically need
- Business plan/project proposal
- Aadhaar identification
- Educational qualifications
- Financial projections
- Proof of concept (if applicable)
- Letter of commitment from incubated startup
The exact checklist depends on the programme and your specifics.
Frequently asked
What sectors are covered under RKVY-RAFTAAR Agri-Entrepreneurship Development?
Agro-processing, artificial intelligence in agriculture, digital agriculture, farm mechanization, waste-to-wealth, dairy, fisheries, and other agricultural innovations are supported.
What is the funding structure at the idea/pre-seed stage?
90% grant from the programme and 10% contribution required from the incubatee entrepreneur.
Who are the implementing partners?
5 Knowledge Partners (MANAGE, NIAM, IARI, UAS Dharwad, AAU Assam) and 24 RKVY-RAFTAAR Agribusiness Incubators across India.
Is there a training component?
Yes, all selected agri-entrepreneurs undergo a 2-month structured training and mentorship programme before financial support is disbursed.
Reviewed July 2026. Government programmes change — confirm current eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official programme page before you apply. CapEasy is a private consultancy and is not affiliated with any government authority.