Join the India-Australia RISE Accelerator: Climate Smart Agritech Cohort Applications Now Open

The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) of India has collaborated with Australia’s Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) to launch the Climate Smart Agritech cohort under the India-Australia Rapid Innovation and Start-up Expansion (RISE) Accelerator. This initiative aims to foster innovation by inviting applications from start-ups and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in India and Australia, focusing on solutions that address shared agricultural challenges.

A Collaborative Effort for Sustainable Agriculture

The Climate Smart Agritech cohort is set to begin in October 2024 and will focus on supporting businesses that develop technologies and solutions to enhance agricultural productivity and resilience. This comes in response to the growing threats of climate variability, resource scarcity, and food insecurity affecting both nations. The program is particularly interested in start-ups and MSMEs that offer innovative solutions tailored to the distinct agricultural environments of India and Australia, while also meeting the specific needs of farmers and improving on-farm practices.

Since its inception in 2023, the RISE Accelerator has been instrumental in helping start-ups and MSMEs validate, adapt, and pilot their technologies in new markets. The introduction of the Climate Smart Agritech cohort marks a significant step forward, with the program now aiming to accelerate the development of agritech innovations that can effectively address environmental challenges and contribute to sustainable agricultural practices.

Focus on Diverse Agricultural Challenges

“India and Australia share common agricultural challenges, but the scale and diversity of our farming operations are unique,” said Tamara Ogilvie, Program Director at CSIRO. “This cohort will enable participants to achieve product-market fit in diverse markets and rapidly scale their solutions to meet global demands.”

The nine-month program will combine self-paced online learning with in-person sessions, including immersion weeks in both India and Australia. Participants will receive deep market insights, one-on-one coaching, and mentorship from industry experts. The program is also designed to facilitate connections with potential partners and customers, enhancing the prospects for successful market entry.

Real-World Testing and Piloting

In the latter half of the program, participants will have the opportunity to conduct field trials and technology pilots, allowing them to test and refine their solutions in real-world agricultural settings. This practical experience is crucial for ensuring that the innovations are effective and scalable.

“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,” said Pramit Dash, Program Lead at AIM.

Targeting Critical Agricultural Issues

The program is specifically seeking innovative solutions that address critical agricultural challenges, including enhancing productivity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and optimizing the use of natural resources. These issues are increasingly important as the world faces the dual challenges of feeding a growing population and combating climate change.

Application Details and Benefits of Climate Smart Agritech cohort

Applications for the Climate Smart Agritech cohort are open until September 15, 2024. The program is free for participating start-ups and MSMEs, with the added benefit of opportunities for travel between Australia and India. Selected participants may also be eligible for non-equity grants of up to INR 45 lakhs, providing significant financial support to further develop their innovations.

The RISE Accelerator is a bilateral initiative led by CSIRO and AIM, NITI Aayog, aimed at addressing shared environmental and climate challenges by supporting the cross-border expansion of innovative agritech solutions.

Conclusion

The Climate Smart Agritech cohort under the India-Australia RISE Accelerator represents a significant opportunity for start-ups and MSMEs in both countries to contribute to sustainable agriculture. By fostering innovation and providing a platform for cross-border collaboration, the program aims to tackle shared agricultural challenges related to climate change, resource scarcity, and food security. With access to mentorship, market insights, and financial support, participants are well-positioned to develop and scale solutions that can make a meaningful impact in both local and global agricultural markets. As applications close on September 15, 2024, this is a timely call for innovators who are ready to shape the future of agritech and drive the next wave of agricultural transformation.