SBI Foundation and Villgro Launch 'Innovators for Bharat' to Propel Agricultural Startups

SBI Foundation and Villgro have unveiled the ‘Innovators for Bharat’ portfolio, supporting nine agricultural startups with equity seed funding. The initiative aims to boost agricultural productivity, climate resilience, and sustainability, potentially benefiting 10,000 farmers and bringing 60,000 acres under sustainable cultivation, while preventing 15,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions.

SBI Foundation and Villgro have announced the launch of the 'Innovators for Bharat' portfolio, offering equity seed funding to nine agricultural startups. The initiative is part of SBI Foundation's SBIF LEAP program and aims to address critical agricultural challenges in India.

This partnership between SBI Foundation and Villgro, one of India's leading social enterprise incubators, was formalized in September 2023. Through the Agri-tech Cohort, the program focuses on enhancing agricultural productivity, building climate resilience, and supporting sustainable farming practices.

The initiative plans to impact 10,000 farmers by increasing their livelihoods and incomes, converting 60,000 acres to sustainable cultivation, and reducing CO2 emissions by 15,000 tonnes. The selected startups offer innovative solutions in different areas of agriculture, including drone-based advisories, quality testing technologies, and renewable energy solutions.

(With inputs from agencies.)