IIM Kashipur envisions supporting five hundred agri-tech startups through the newly formed Agri Consortium in next three years

The significance of agriculture as the driving force for rural development as well as the economy at large is paramount. One of the primary focus areas of the government has been on fostering entrepreneurship within the sector. Academic institutions, particularly the IIMs and IITs play an integral part when it comes to nurturing ideas, promoting innovations and supporting entrepreneurship.

Foundation for Innovation & Entrepreneurship Development (FIED) is the incubation center of Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Kashipur which works towards creating an ecosystem of innovation and entrepreneurship in Uttarakhand. It is channelising its efforts majorly in Agriculture Technology and Agri-entrepreneurship and also working in the domains of Tourism, Education, and Sustainable Technologies.

FIED's multifaceted approach includes providing incubation support, training, and capacity building, as well as facilitating access to markets and connecting startups with experienced mentors. The organization actively promotes rural entrepreneurship and empowers women agripreneurs, addressing key challenges faced by the agricultural sector. FIED’s initiatives have led to the emergence of successful agricultural startups like Bijak, Loopworm, Greenpod Labs, Agronext Services, MLIT-SOL, and InfyU Labs.

In this interview with Mr. Ram Kumar, CEO, FIED, discusses their ongoing work and the recently established Agri Consortium which would work towards promoting adoption of advanced technologies, sustainable agriculture, strengthening market linkages, capacity building, advocacy, and support the incubation of startups. FIED, in collaboration with other HEIs, aims to support five hundred agri-tech startups in the next three years.

Read the full interview for an enriched understanding on the intersection of agriculture, innovation and entrepreneurship:

Q: FIED has been instrumental in organizing the 'Agri-Entrepreneurship in South Asia' Consortium-2023. Could you elaborate on FIED's specific contributions and efforts in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation within the agricultural domain?

A: The Foundation for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (FIED), incubation center at IIM Kashipur plays a significant role in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation within the agricultural domain. Its contributions and efforts in this field are instrumental in driving economic growth, sustainable farming practices, and the overall development of rural and agrarian communities. Here are some of the keyways in which FIED supports entrepreneurship and innovation in agriculture:

1.  Incubation Support: FIED provides a nurturing environment for agripreneurs and agricultural startups. This includes offering physical infrastructure, access to mentorship, and resources that are vital for the development of agricultural innovations. A total of fifty-five plus agri startups from different states including Uttarakhand, has been provided incubation & funding support by IIM Kashipur FIED under the guidance of Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
2. Training and Capacity Building: FIED organizes a wide range of training programs, workshops, and capacity-building initiatives tailored to the needs of agricultural entrepreneurs. These programs cover areas such as modern farming techniques, agri-tech, sustainable agriculture, and business management. Every year it runs a cohort of agri startups providing them a customized agri business training program of 60 days. More than 200 agripreneurs have been trained with this agri based training program.
3. Access to Market: The foundation helps startups connect with markets and consumers. This is achieved through market research, product development support, and assistance in building effective distribution channels.
4. Rural Entrepreneurship: FIED recognizes the potential of rural entrepreneurship in agriculture. It supports and incubates rural startups that harness local resources and promote sustainable rural development. With the help of Directorate of Industries & Startup Uttarakhand program, FIED tries to reach rural enterprises from hilly districts of Uttarakhand.
5. Support for Women Agripreneurs: FIED actively encourages the participation of women in agricultural entrepreneurship. It offers programs and initiatives that empower and support female agripreneurs, addressing gender disparities in the sector.
6. Mentorship and Guidance: The foundation connects agricultural startups with experienced mentors who provide valuable guidance, advice, and industry insights. This mentorship is crucial for the growth and success of agribusinesses.
7. Collaboration with Government and Industry: FIED collaborates with government agencies, agricultural organizations, and industry partners to advocate for policies that support agricultural innovation and entrepreneurship. It actively participates in the development of the agri-tech ecosystem.

By focusing on these areas and promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, FIED makes substantial contributions to the agricultural sector. Its efforts result in increased agricultural productivity, job creation, economic growth, and sustainable farming practices, all of which are vital for the development and well-being of rural and agrarian communities.

Q: Considering the pressing issues in Indian agriculture, could you highlight some of the key challenges discussed during the consortium? What, in your opinion, are the most urgent problems that need immediate attention and innovative solutions?

A: The Agri Consortium of Higher Education Institutions often discussed a wide range of challenges related to agriculture. These challenges were crucial topics of discussion, research, and collaboration among the member institutions. Some of the key challenges that were commonly addressed within consortia include:

1. Agricultural Innovation and Technology Adoption: Integrating cutting-edge technology into agriculture can be challenging, particularly for small-scale farmers. Institutions aim to facilitate the adoption of technology through building the capacity of startups in terms of technology & business knowledge and innovative practices in farming.
2. Rural Development: Agriculture is often the primary source of income for rural communities. Members of the consortium discuss strategies for rural development and poverty alleviation through agricultural initiatives.
3. Market Access and Value Chains: Enhancing market access for smallholder farmers and optimizing value chains are critical. Consortia address issues related to market linkages, transportation, and post-harvest losses.
4. Access to Credit and Finance: Small farmers often struggle to access credit and finance. Consortia explore options for improving financial services for agricultural enterprises.
5. Policy and Regulatory Challenges: Members discuss policy issues related to agriculture, advocating for supportive policies and regulations that benefit farmers and the sector as a whole.
6. Educational and Extension Services: Enhancing agricultural education and extension services is a common goal. Institutions collaborate on curriculum development, training programs, and outreach initiatives.
7. Post-Harvest Losses: Reducing post-harvest losses in the storage and transportation of agricultural produce is a challenge often discussed in consortia.

These challenges are multidimensional and require collaborative efforts from higher education institutions, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and industry partners to find effective and sustainable solutions. Consortia play a pivotal role in facilitating this collaboration and driving progress in the agricultural sector.

Q: Please take us through the mission and objectives of the recently established Agri Consortium led by IIM Kashipur. How is it significant for Indian higher educational institutions in the agriculture sector?

A: The Agri Consortium of Higher Education Institutions established in collaboration with other Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) by IIM Kashipur FIED is a collaborative network or association of universities, colleges, and other higher education institutions that have come together with a specific focus on agricultural education, research, and innovation. This consortium has been established to address common challenges, leverage resources, and promote agricultural excellence in a region or country. Here are some key aspects and purposes of an Agri Consortium of Higher Education Institutions:

I. Sharing of startup database among consortium members: Members may offer to share the database of startups supported on the consortium platform which makes the startups accessible to other startups and stakeholders for connection. This way each of the member institutions supporting startups can connect to each other.

II. Networking & Sharing Best Practices: Members of Agri Consortium may actively participate in consortium meetings, conferences, seminars, and networking events to foster collaboration, share best practices, and exchange knowledge.

III. Dissemination of Incubation or Startup Support Programs: Members of Agri Consortium may share the information about different startup support programs run at institutional level at the agri consortium platform for a better reach and attracting best startup ideas from different geographies.

Higher education institutions (HEIs) being part of an Agri Consortium hold significant importance for various reasons. These collaborations offer numerous benefits to both the institutions and the agricultural sector as a whole:

1. Research and Innovation: HEIs are hubs of research and innovation. By participating in Agri Consortia, they can contribute their expertise and resources to address critical challenges in agriculture, leading to the development of innovative solutions, new technologies, and improved farming practices.
2. Knowledge Transfer: Consortia facilitates the transfer of knowledge from academic institutions to the agricultural community. Research findings and advancements can be disseminated to farmers, extension workers, and other stakeholders, leading to more informed and effective decision-making.
3. Capacity Building: Higher education institutions can offer training programs, workshops, and capacity-building initiatives to educate farmers, agripreneurs, and agricultural professionals. These initiatives improve the skills and knowledge of individuals working in the sector.
4. Curriculum Development: HEIs can update and tailor their agricultural curricula to meet the evolving needs of the industry. This ensures that graduates are well-prepared to address contemporary agricultural challenges.
5. Policy Advocacy: Consortia often engage in policy discussions and advocacy efforts. HEIs can play a role in shaping agricultural policies that are evidence-based and supportive of sustainable practices.
6. Incubation and Entrepreneurship: Many consortia promote agricultural entrepreneurship. Higher education institutions can establish incubation centers and provide mentorship to startups, fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in the agricultural sector.
7. Market Linkages: Universities can facilitate market linkages for farmers and agribusinesses, ensuring that agricultural products find their way to consumers and markets efficiently.
8. Networking: Consortia provide opportunities for networking and collaboration among HEIs. This can lead to joint research projects, shared resources, and a more unified approach to addressing agricultural challenges.

The involvement of higher education an institution in Agri Consortia enriches the collaborative ecosystem, fosters knowledge-sharing, and accelerates progress in addressing agricultural challenges. It is a win-win situation where academia benefits from real-world challenges, and agriculture benefits from academic expertise and innovation.

Q: The Agri Consortium emphasizes sharing startup databases, disseminating support programs, and networking among member institutions. How do you envision these collaborative efforts shaping the future landscape of agricultural startups in India?

A: The 'Agri Consortium 2023,' spanning two days, was conceived with the primary objective of providing a unified platform for academicians, researchers, students, and industry experts to engage in constructive dialogues.As a significant outcome of the consortium, HEIs and universities unanimously agreed upon a principled collaboration framework comprising three vital components:

- Sharing of startup databases: Consortium members will actively exchange startup databases, facilitating a collaborative approach to supporting emerging businesses in the agricultural domain.

- Incubation and support programs: The consortium commits to disseminating incubation and startup support programs, thereby nurturing the growth of agricultural startups.

- Networking and best practices: HEIs participating in the consortium have pledged to create a platform for networking and sharing best practices, fostering a vibrant environment for innovation and collaboration.

This opens the avenues of collaboration between startups from different geographies, helping each other take their innovative solutions to a large number of farmers. This way any startup from Uttarakhand for example can connect with the startup of Andhra Pradesh & complement each other in reaching newer geographies expanding the footprints of startup.

Q: FIED aims to establish a knowledge bank for failed startups in the agricultural industry. How do you think analyzing these failures will contribute to shaping better policies and strategies for nurturing successful startups in the future?

A: Understanding the stories of failed startups in the agricultural industry can provide valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and those working in the sector. While each failure story is unique, there are common themes and lessons that can be extracted from these experiences. Here are some of the reasons and lessons learned from failed agricultural startups:

1. Lack of Market Understanding: Some startups fail because they did not thoroughly understand the needs and challenges of the agricultural market they were trying to serve. It's crucial to conduct in-depth market research and engage with potential customers to tailor solutions to their specific requirements.
2. Insufficient Funding: Many agricultural startups struggle due to undercapitalization. Agriculture often requires significant upfront investments in land, equipment, and infrastructure. Without adequate funding, startups may find it challenging to scale or even sustain their operations.
3. Technology Integration Challenges: Agricultural technology can be complex and requires seamless integration into existing farming operations. Startups may fail if their solutions are difficult to use or require a significant learning curve for farmers.
4. Inadequate Distribution and Supply Chain: Access to markets and efficient supply chain management is crucial in agriculture. Failing to establish a reliable distribution network can result in unsold produce and financial losses.
5. Resistance to Change: Farmers can be conservative and resistant to new practices and technologies. Startups need to invest in farmer education and demonstrate the value of their solutions.
6. Competition: The agricultural sector can be highly competitive. If a startup does not differentiate itself or offer a unique value proposition, it may struggle to gain market share.
7. Ecosystem Challenges: Some startups fail because they cannot effectively navigate the agricultural ecosystem. Building relationships with key stakeholders, such as cooperatives, research institutions, and government agencies, is vital for success.
8. Ignoring Sustainability: Modern agriculture emphasizes sustainability. Startups that neglect environmentally friendly practices may not align with evolving consumer and regulatory expectations.
9. Team and Leadership Issues: Dysfunctional teams or leadership challenges can lead to the failure of agricultural startups. Effective communication, decision-making, and team dynamics are critical for success.
10. Economic Viability: Startups must have a clear path to profitability. Some fail because they do not have a sustainable revenue model or accurate financial projections.

Studying the stories of failed startups can help entrepreneurs and agricultural innovators avoid common pitfalls and make more informed decisions. It's essential to learn from failures and adapt strategies to improve the chances of success in the agricultural sector.

Q: Could you share some success stories or examples of innovative agricultural startups that have emerged through FIED's initiatives? How have these startups made a positive impact, and what lessons can others learn from their journeys?

A: Under the RKVY RAFTAAR Agri Business incubation program more than 50 Agritech startups incubated at IIM Kashipur FIED have been creating significant impact in the life of the farmers & have developed innovative products using technology.

- Bijak: Krishi AcharyaTech Pvt. Ltd. (BIJAK), this startup is working on the B2Btrader platform for money transactionand location of buyers and traders.It’sa great enabler for e-NAM helpingbuyers and suppliers at supply chainend. Bijak is India’s most trusted agriculture trading platform that helps mandi traders across India to buy/sell top-quality agricultural commodities with 30,000+ reliable traders at the best rates. Get end-to-end Agri trade services such as advance payment facility, Bijak limit, daily mandi bhav from 2,000+ mandis & more. Bijak has raised a total funding of $34.1M over 3 rounds& currently is one of the highly valued Agritech startups from India.

- Loopworm: One of the prominent Agri tech startups supported by IIM Kashipur FIED is Loopworm based in Bangalore. Loopworm is an Agri-Biotechnology company that takes inspiration from nature, to convert organic wastes into valuable products promoting health, nourishment & wellbeing for all forms of life. Loopworm is currently focused on producing alternative sustainable protein & fats for Shrimp Feeds, Poultry Feeds & Pet Foods. Highly digestible amino acids & insect-like natural smell in the protein concentrate led to superior palatability in insect-based Aquaculture Feeds. Insect oil is a highly sustainable alternative to conventional feed oil sources like Palm Oil, Fish Oil,& Krill Oil. Inclusion of insect products in poultry feeds leads to better egg & meat quality, higher productivity, better immunity, and enhanced welfare for commercially farmed birds. Hypoallergenic properties & natural bioavailability of anti-microbial supplements, cartilage & bone growth promoters lead to superior health for Dogs & Cats. Apart from receiving RKVY RAFTAAR grant of INR 25 lakhs from IIM Kashipur FIED, Loopworm has raised external investment of USD $ 3.4 million from Omnivore & Water bridge ventures.

- Greenpod Labs: One another startup supported at IIM Kashipur FIED is Greenpod Labs. The startup provides cost-effective post-harvest solutions to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables during storage and transport. Greenpod is developing active packaging sachets which activate in-built defense mechanisms in fruits and vegetables to preserve its quality.GreenPod Labs has raised INR 4.5 crores seed fund from Indian Angel Network and Rockstart ventures.

- Agronext Services Pvt. Ltd: AgroNxt is a Platform that is aimed to offer Products and Services to enhance Productivity & Profitability of Farmers by engaging different Stakeholders. Agronxt has developed a unique very affordable soil testing device Bhu-Parikshak which is portable & handheld. This gives instant results on connected smartphone.

- MLIT-SOL Pvt. Ltd: PoultryMon is a real time remote monitoring solution for poultry hatcheries and farms for increasingproductivity and quality by enhancingvisibility into the process using AI andIoT over mobile or web.PoultryMondemonstrates added value of connectivity and complete visibility into the hatching process minimizes the possibilities of human errors andfraud by enhancing transparency andtraceability.

- InfyU Labs Pvt. Ltd: InfyU Labs develops portabletechnologies to enable the qualitymanagers of food processingindustries to instantaneouslydetermine the internal quality of freshfruits without cutting them.Top of Form

Q: Businesses have a significant role to play in driving change within the agricultural sector. In what ways do you think businesses, both large corporations and small enterprises, can contribute meaningfully to the goals of the Agri Consortium and the overall betterment of Indian agriculture?

A: Large business corporations and other enterprises can play a significant role in contributing to the goals of an Agri Consortium, which primarily focuses on advancing agriculture, promoting innovation, and supporting sustainable practices. Their involvement can have several positive impacts:

1. Market Access: Enterprises can help create market linkages for agricultural products. They can assist in finding new markets, negotiating fair prices for agricultural produce, and ensuring that farmers have access to potential buyers.
2. Supply Chain Optimization: Corporations with expertise in supply chain management can help streamline the movement of agricultural products from farm to consumer. This can reduce post-harvest losses and improve overall efficiency.
3. Capacity Building: Corporations can offer training and capacity-building programs for farmers and agripreneurs. These programs can cover areas such as modern farming techniques, business management, and technology adoption.
4. Infrastructure Development: Some corporations specialize in building agricultural infrastructure, such as processing units, storage facilities, and distribution networks. This infrastructure is vital for reducing food wastage and improving the supply chain.
5. Access to Global Markets: Enterprises with a global presence can help consortium members access international markets, opening up opportunities for agricultural exports and collaborations with foreign partners.
6. Innovation and Startups: Corporations can support agri-tech startups by providing mentorship, investment, and access to resources. This can drive innovation within the agricultural sector.
7. Quality Control and Certification: Enterprises can help consortium members implement quality control measures and attain certifications that enable access to premium markets.
8. Local Community Engagement: Large corporations often have corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. They can support community development projects in rural areas served by the consortium.
9. Global Best Practices: Enterprises can share global best practices in agriculture with consortium members, helping them adopt proven strategies for success.

The collaboration between large business corporations, other enterprises, and Agri Consortia can create a synergy that benefits the agricultural sector as a whole. This collaboration can lead to improved farming practices, increased agricultural productivity, sustainable development, and economic growth in rural communities.

Q: Looking ahead, what are your expectations for the future of the Agri Consortium and the initiatives undertaken by FIED in the agricultural sector? Are there specific milestones or goals that you hope to achieve in the coming years?

A: The future of Agri Consortia of Higher Education Institutions in India holds great promise and is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the country's agricultural landscape. Here are some potential developments and the future outlook for these consortia:

1. Adoption of Advanced Technologies: The adoption of advanced technologies, such as precision agriculture, IoT, blockchain, and AI, will become more widespread. Agri consortia will be at the forefront of integrating these technologies into farming practices and supporting technology transfer to farmers.
2. Sustainable Agriculture: Sustainability will be a central theme for the future of agriculture. Consortia will focus on promoting sustainable farming practices, organic agriculture, and eco-friendly approaches to address environmental concerns and consumer demands.
3. Market Linkages: Agri consortia will play an essential role in strengthening market linkages for farmers and agribusinesses. They will work on reducing post-harvest losses, improving value chains, and helping farmers access local and global markets.
4. Capacity Building: These consortia will continue to offer training and capacity-building programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of agricultural professionals, farmers, and agripreneurs.
5. Policy Advocacy: Agri consortia will actively engage in policy advocacy to shape favorable policies and regulations for the agricultural sector. They will advocate for reforms that support innovation and entrepreneurship.
6. Startup Incubation: The support and incubation of agricultural startups will expand. Agri consortia will offer mentorship, funding, and resources to nurture agri-tech startups and innovative agribusinesses.

The future of Agri Consortia in India is expected to be dynamic and forward-looking. These consortia will continue to be essential drivers of innovation, knowledge dissemination, and sustainable agricultural development in the country. Their role in promoting entrepreneurship, research, and community engagement will be pivotal in ensuring a prosperous and sustainable future for Indian agriculture.

With this newly formed agri consortium, IIM Kashipur envisions to support five hundred agri tech startups with help of other HEIs of the consortium in next three years.Top of Form