Apply before 15 September 2024
The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), in collaboration with CSIRO, Australia, has announced the opening of applications for the Climate Smart Agritech cohort of the India-Australia Rapid Innovation and Start-up Expansion (RISE) Accelerator. This initiative is a significant step towards fostering innovations that address the shared agricultural challenges faced by India and Australia. The program is specifically designed to support start-ups and MSMEs aiming for international expansion and focuses on enhancing agricultural productivity and resilience in the face of climate change.
Focus on Climate-Smart Agritech
Commencing in October 2024, the Climate Smart Agritech cohort of the RISE Accelerator will target start-ups and MSMEs that have developed technologies and solutions aimed at addressing critical issues in agriculture, such as climate variability, resource scarcity, and food insecurity. The program is particularly interested in solutions that prioritize the needs and practices of farmers, ensuring that innovations are not only effective but also practical and scalable.
Since its inception in 2023, the RISE Accelerator program has been instrumental in helping start-ups and MSMEs validate, adapt, and pilot their technologies for new markets. The introduction of the Climate Smart Agritech cohort underscores the program’s commitment to tackling environmental challenges by supporting agritech innovations that can thrive in diverse agricultural settings.
Program Structure and Benefits
The RISE Accelerator offers a comprehensive nine-month program that blends self-paced online learning with in-person sessions. Participants will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in both Indian and Australian markets, gaining deep insights into each country’s agricultural landscape. The program includes one-on-one coaching, mentorship from industry professionals, and field trials, providing a well-rounded experience to prepare participants for global market expansion.
Tamara Ogilvie, Program Director at CSIRO, emphasized the unique challenges and opportunities presented by this cohort, stating, “India and Australia share common agricultural challenges, but the scale and diversity of our farming operations are unique. This cohort will enable participants to achieve product-market fit in diverse markets and rapidly scale their solutions to meet global demands.”
Participants will also have the chance to connect with potential partners and customers, which is crucial for their success in new markets. The program is designed to foster innovation and provide a platform for start-ups and MSMEs to scale their solutions, ultimately benefiting farmers by offering resilient practices tailored to their specific needs.
Opportunities for Participants
Selected start-ups and MSMEs in the Climate Smart Agritech cohort will not only receive mentorship and market insights but may also be eligible for up to INR 45 lakhs in non-equity grants. Additionally, the program includes multiple opportunities for participants to travel between Australia and India, facilitating cross-border collaboration and learning.
Pramit Dash, Program Lead at AIM, highlighted the importance of the initiative, saying, “By fostering innovation and providing a platform for start-ups to scale their solutions, the RISE Accelerator program not only addresses the immediate challenges in the agriculture sector but also ensures that farmers can access and adopt resilient practices tailored to their specific needs.”
Application Details
Applications for the Climate Smart Agritech cohort of the RISE Accelerator are open until September 15, 2024. https://riseaccelerator.org/ There is no charge for start-ups or SMEs to participate in the program, making it an accessible opportunity for businesses looking to expand their impact globally.
As the deadline approaches, start-ups and MSMEs with innovative solutions for climate-smart agriculture are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable farming practices in both India and Australia. The RISE Accelerator represents a crucial step towards building a more resilient agricultural sector that can withstand the challenges posed by climate change and ensure food security for future generations.
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