The ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute (ICAR-CCRI), Nagpur, has initiated an agribusiness incubation training program under CitriHub-Agribusiness Incubation Center, to provide technical and business mentorship to three emerging foodpreneurs from Manipur. The initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the citrus-based agribusiness sector by equipping entrepreneurs with the necessary expertise in processing, value addition and product development.
The selected entrepreneurs, Hanjabam Ranita Devi, Catherine Soyamphi AS and James Khongbantabam, are currently undergoing intensive training at ICAR-CCRI. The programme focuses on imparting hands-on experience in citrus-based food processing while also offering insights into improving commercial viability. The incubatees will receive personalized business mentoring and tailored guidance over the next six months to help them scale and sustain their ventures effectively.
Collaboration Between ICAR-CCRI and Manipur Government
Speaking on the initiative, Dr. Dilip Ghosh, Director of ICAR-CCRI, highlighted that the program is part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ICAR-CCRI and the Department of Horticulture and Soil Conservation, Government of Manipur. This collaboration aims to strengthen citripreneurship in the state by fostering sustainable citrus-based agribusiness opportunities. Dr. Ghosh emphasized that entrepreneurs and startups from across India should take advantage of the agribusiness incubation services offered under CitriHub, which serves as a platform to nurture ventures in the citrus industry.
CitriHub – Agribusiness Incubation Centre
CitriHub operates under the XIIth Plan Scheme of the National Agricultural Innovation Fund (NAIF – Component II) with the objective of supporting agribusinesses through technological, business, and networking assistance. The incubation centre at ICAR-CCRI provides emerging entrepreneurs with resources to develop and refine citrus-based products before launching full-fledged businesses.
The mission of CitriHub is to enhance the citrus sector by commercializing innovative citrus-based products and services. The incubation center aims to create self-employment opportunities while fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem for current and future stakeholders in citriculture.
Comprehensive Support for Incubatees
The incubation process at ICAR-CCRI offers extensive technological and business mentoring, ensuring entrepreneurs receive guidance in idea generation, product and prototype development, pilot-scale testing, and refinement based on consumer feedback. The program also assists in necessary regulatory processes, such as acquiring certifications like Udyam Aadhaar and FSSAI.
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Additionally, the institute provides hands-on skill training in various citrus-related technologies, including nursery production and fruit processing. Entrepreneurs also benefit from funding facilitation services, where ICAR-CCRI assists in developing business plans, preparing investment pitches, and connecting with potential seed funders, government agencies, and venture capitalists.
Brand-building support is another key feature of CitriHub, as the incubation center aids in designing logos, product promotion, and establishing market linkages. Furthermore, intellectual property management services help entrepreneurs protect their innovations, with guidance provided on filing patents and trademarks.
Structured Incubation Process
The incubation process follows a structured framework, beginning with the admission of incubatees and progressing through technological mentoring, prototype testing, and validation. Based on beta customer feedback, the products are refined, and business plans are developed. Entrepreneurs are then connected with potential funders before graduating from the incubation programme. Even after completion, continued business mentoring, technological support, and brand-building assistance are provided to ensure sustainable growth.
With CitriHub at ICAR-CCRI, entrepreneurs in the citrus industry have access to an extensive support system that enhances their ability to develop and commercialize innovative citrus-based products. As the incubation program continues, it is expected to play a crucial role in fostering agribusiness opportunities, particularly in the North-East region of India.