The ICAR-National Academy of Agricultural Research Management (ICAR-NAARM) has announced the launch of ABI Incubation 3.0, an initiative under the National Agricultural Innovation Fund (NAIF) scheme. This program is designed to provide comprehensive support to early-stage startups and individuals with innovative ideas, proofs of concept (PoC), prototypes, or minimum viable products (MVPs) in the agriculture and allied sectors.
Hosted by a-IDEA, ICAR-NAARM’s technology business incubator, the program aims to guide entrepreneurs in developing and scaling their business ideas with the help of technical, business, laboratory and advisory services.
ABI Incubation 3.0’s Structure and Cost
ABI Incubation 3.0 offers two incubation models to accommodate different needs. The full incubation program, spanning 12 months, provides participants with access to physical facilities, including mentorship, workspace, and a suite of support services, for a fee of INR 50k, payable in four installments. For those unable to participate in person, a virtual incubation model is available for INR 25k, also payable in four installments, offering remote guidance and mentorship. Both options are designed to provide structured support tailored to the unique needs of each participant.
Eligibility Criteria
The program invites applications from individuals and startups working on innovative solutions in agriculture, allied sectors, or rural innovation. Eligible participants include individuals with early-stage ideas or prototypes, startups with developed PoC, prototypes, or MVPs, and enterprises not more than five years from the date of their incorporation.
Resources and Benefits
Participants in ABI Incubation 3.0 will gain access to a wide range of resources designed to nurture and advance their ventures. These include expert mentorship in technology, business strategy, and financial planning, as well as access to a fully equipped workspace for developing and refining ideas. The program facilitates networking opportunities, connecting participants with farmers, farmer producer organizations (FPOs), investors, and industry professionals. Capacity-building sessions led by experts will help startups enhance their operational and managerial capabilities. Additionally, the program offers guidance on intellectual property rights, compliance matters, and access to funding through venture capital firms, angel investors, and grants.
Complementary Programs and Initiatives
In addition to ABI Incubation 3.0, ICAR-NAARM provides several complementary initiatives to support entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector. The Agripreneurship Orientation Programme (AOP) is aimed at individuals with early-stage ideas, offering hands-on training and internships with established startups to help participants understand business dynamics in agriculture. The Agribusiness Incubation Programme (AIP) targets startups with MVPs, focusing on product testing, marketing strategies, and refining business models for market entry. Another initiative, AGRI UDAAN, serves as a food and agribusiness accelerator, helping food-related startups scale their operations through targeted mentorship and funding opportunities. The Agribusiness Management Development Program (ABMDP) provides specialized training for prospective leaders of FPOs, enhancing their management skills and linking them with relevant job opportunities.
Application Process and Deadline
Applications for ABI Incubation 3.0 are open and will close on January 5, 2025. This program represents a unique opportunity for startups and innovators in the agricultural sector to access critical resources and expert support, empowering them to bring their ideas to fruition and make a meaningful impact in their field.
