Agriculture Startup Funding

RKVY-RAFTAAR Scheme

Access RKVY-RAFTAAR funding for your agriculture and allied sector startup. Get up to ₹25 Lakhs grant along with incubation support, mentorship, and infrastructure access through R-ABI centres across India.

Talk to Expert
₹25L
Max Grant Amount
2 Years
Incubation Period
29+
R-ABI Centres
₹5K/Mo
Entrepreneur Stipend

Key Highlights

Up to ₹25 Lakhs Grant
2-Year Incubation Support
Monthly Stipend for Entrepreneurs
29+ R-ABI Centres Pan-India

What is RKVY-RAFTAAR Scheme?

RKVY-RAFTAAR (Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana - Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied sector Rejuvenation) is a flagship government scheme launched by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the agriculture sector.

The scheme aims to create a conducive ecosystem for agri-startups by providing not just financial grants but comprehensive support including incubation facilities, expert mentorship, technical guidance, market linkages, and infrastructure access. It recognizes that agriculture transformation requires entrepreneurial solutions across the entire value chain.

Through a network of 29+ RKVY Agri-Business Incubators (R-ABIs) established at Agricultural Universities and ICAR institutes, the scheme provides 2-year incubation support with grants up to ₹25 Lakhs. These incubators have domain-specific expertise, laboratories, trial farms, and industry connections to nurture agri-innovations.

RKVY-RAFTAAR is unique because it supports not just technology startups but also value addition, processing, logistics, and service-based agri-businesses. From farm mechanization to food processing, from precision agriculture to agri-fintech, the scheme covers the entire agriculture ecosystem.

RKVY-RAFTAAR Funding & Support Structure

Financial Grant

Up to ₹25 Lakhs

Non-repayable grant disbursed in milestone-based instalments throughout incubation period.

  • Seed money for initial setup
  • Product development funding
  • Market entry support
  • No equity dilution required

Incubation Support

2 Years

Comprehensive incubation at R-ABI centre with full infrastructure and mentoring access.

  • Monthly stipend ₹5,000
  • Lab & equipment access
  • Expert mentorship
  • Industry & market linkages

Additional Benefits: Trial farm access for testing, technical validation support, IP protection guidance, investor connect programs, and opportunity to showcase at agricultural exhibitions and buyer-seller meets.

Eligible Agriculture & Allied Sectors

Crop Production
Horticulture
Dairy & Livestock
Poultry Farming
Fisheries & Aquaculture
Apiculture (Beekeeping)
Food Processing
Post-Harvest Management
Farm Mechanization
Precision Agriculture
Protected Cultivation
Organic Farming
Agri-Logistics
Cold Chain Solutions
Irrigation Technology
Agri-Fintech

Types of Agri-Innovations Supported

Technology Products

IoT sensors, drones for agriculture, farm management software, precision agriculture tools, automated systems

Examples: Soil testing kits, crop monitoring drones, smart irrigation systems

Value-Added Products

Food processing innovations, new product development, packaging solutions, shelf-life extension

Examples: Ready-to-eat products, organic processed foods, innovative packaging

Services & Platforms

Agri-marketplaces, farm-as-a-service, advisory platforms, logistics solutions, financial services

Examples: B2B agri platforms, farm equipment rental, crop advisory apps

Biological Innovations

Bio-fertilizers, bio-pesticides, seed treatment, animal health products, aquaculture solutions

Examples: Organic pest control, probiotics for livestock, fish feed innovations

Machinery & Equipment

Farm implements, processing machinery, storage solutions, small-scale mechanization

Examples: Mini cold storage, portable processing units, custom farm tools

Eligibility Criteria

Age & Citizenship

Indian citizen, 18 years or above

Educational Background

Graduate in Agriculture/Horticulture/Veterinary/Food Technology/Allied Sciences OR relevant entrepreneurial experience

Innovation Focus

Innovative idea in agriculture, food processing, or allied sectors with scalability potential

Commitment

Willingness to undergo 2-year incubation at R-ABI centre and work full-time on startup

Business Stage

Idea stage to early-stage startup (not more than 2-3 years old typically)

No Duplicate Funding

Should not have received similar support from other government schemes for same idea

R-ABI Centres Across India (29+ Locations)

RKVY Agri-Business Incubators are established at premier agricultural institutions:

ICAR-IARI, New Delhi

Crop Sciences

ICAR-NDRI, Karnal

Dairy Technology

ICAR-CIFT, Kochi

Fisheries & Seafood

GBPUAT, Pantnagar

Agriculture & Allied

TNAU, Coimbatore

Food Processing

PAU, Ludhiana

Farm Mechanization

UAS, Bangalore

Horticulture

AAU, Anand

Dairy & Livestock

OUAT, Bhubaneswar

Agriculture

JNKVV, Jabalpur

Crop Production

ICAR-CIRCOT, Mumbai

Cotton Technology

ICAR-CIAE, Bhopal

Agri-Engineering

Selection Tip: Choose R-ABI centre based on your innovation domain, geographic convenience, and centre's specialization. Each R-ABI has specific expertise and industry connections in their focus areas.

RKVY-RAFTAAR Application Process

1

Identify Suitable R-ABI

Research R-ABI centres based on your agri-innovation domain, location preference, and centre's specialization area

2

Prepare Business Plan

Develop comprehensive agri-business plan including innovation description, market analysis, financial projections, and implementation roadmap

3

Wait for Open Call

R-ABIs typically announce open calls for applications twice a year. Monitor their websites and social media for announcements

4

Submit Application

Complete application form with all required documents including business plan, team details, and proof of concept if available

5

Screening & Shortlisting

R-ABI screens applications based on innovation merit, feasibility, scalability, and alignment with agriculture priorities

6

Presentation to Committee

Shortlisted candidates present their agri-business idea to selection committee comprising experts and industry professionals

7

Selection & Agreement

Selected startups sign incubation agreement with R-ABI detailing milestones, deliverables, and support structure

8

Incubation & Funding

Begin 2-year incubation with monthly stipend. Grants disbursed in tranches based on milestone achievement and progress reports

Benefits of RKVY-RAFTAAR

Substantial Grant

Up to ₹25 Lakhs non-repayable funding

Monthly Stipend

₹5,000/month during incubation period

Domain Expertise

Access to agriculture scientists and experts

Infrastructure Access

Labs, equipment, trial farms, processing units

Technical Validation

Scientific testing and validation support

Market Linkages

Connect with buyers, FPOs, and retailers

IP Support

Patent filing and IP protection guidance

Investor Connect

Access to agri-focused investors and funds

Government Recognition

Official backing enhances credibility

Peer Network

Community of fellow agri-entrepreneurs

What We Help You With

Eligibility Assessment
R-ABI Centre Selection
Agri-Business Plan Development
Innovation Documentation
Financial Projections
Market Analysis Report
Application Form Completion
Pitch Deck Preparation
Interview Coaching
Technical Proposal Writing
Milestone Planning
Post-Selection Support

Types of Successful RKVY-RAFTAAR Startups

Smart Farming Solutions

IoT-based irrigation and soil monitoring systems for small farmers

Reduced water usage by 40%, increased yield by 25%

Food Processing Innovation

Solar-powered mini processing unit for rural areas

Reduced post-harvest losses, created rural employment

Livestock Health Tech

AI-powered disease detection for cattle using mobile app

Early disease detection, reduced veterinary costs

Organic Input Production

Bio-fertilizer and bio-pesticide manufacturing unit

Chemical-free farming support, improved soil health

Agri-Marketplace Platform

B2B platform connecting farmers directly to buyers

Eliminated middlemen, better price realization for farmers

Cold Chain Solutions

Portable cold storage for fruits and vegetables

Extended shelf life, reduced wastage by 50%

Post-Selection Compliance Requirements

Regular Attendance

Ongoing

Maintain presence at R-ABI centre as per incubation agreement

Progress Reports

Monthly/Quarterly

Submit monthly/quarterly progress reports on milestone achievement

Financial Utilization

As per disbursement

Maintain records of fund utilization with proper documentation

Milestone Completion

As per agreement

Achieve agreed milestones for next tranche of funding

Mentorship Sessions

Monthly

Attend scheduled mentoring and review meetings

Final Report

End of 2 years

Comprehensive report on outcomes at end of incubation period

Common Mistakes to Avoid

✗

Applying with non-agriculture or non-allied sector idea

✗

Choosing R-ABI without researching their specialization

✗

Weak business plan without clear market understanding

✗

Not demonstrating innovation or uniqueness in solution

✗

Unrealistic financial projections without market validation

✗

Missing application deadlines or open call windows

✗

Poor presentation during selection committee interview

✗

Not having proof of concept or any preliminary work

✗

Underestimating commitment required for 2-year incubation

✗

Ignoring technical feasibility and scalability aspects

Why Apply for RKVY-RAFTAAR with Saarthium?

Expert Knowledge of Agri-Schemes
Strong R-ABI Network
Agri-Business Plan Expertise
Domain-Specific Guidance
Application Success Track Record
Technical Proposal Writing
Interview Preparation Support
Post-Selection Compliance Help

Important Points to Remember

RKVY-RAFTAAR is specifically for agriculture and allied sectors only

Must be willing to commit 2 years for incubation at R-ABI centre

Funding is milestone-based - clear deliverables needed upfront

R-ABI selection is crucial - choose based on your domain expertise

Applications typically open twice a year - plan accordingly

Monthly stipend (₹5,000) provides financial support during incubation

Technical validation and trial farm access are major advantages

Network with fellow agri-entrepreneurs for collaboration opportunities

Maintain proper documentation for fund utilization and compliance

Can be combined with DPIIT recognition for additional benefits

RKVY-RAFTAAR vs Other Agri-Funding Options

FeatureRKVY-RAFTAARNABARD SchemesBank Loans
Max Amount₹25 Lakhs GrantVariesAs per eligibility
RepaymentNo (Grant)Partial subsidyFull repayment
Incubation2 Years MandatoryNot includedNot included
MentorshipIncludedLimitedNot included
Monthly Stipend₹5,000NoNo
Lab AccessYes (R-ABI)NoNo
Market LinkageActive SupportLimitedNo

Quick Information

Processing Time3-6 Months
Documents Required
Identity Proof (Aadhaar/PAN)
Educational Certificates
Detailed Agri-Business Plan
Innovation/Technology Description
Financial Projections (3-5 Years)
Land/Infrastructure Details (if applicable)
Team Profile & Experience
Proof of Concept/Prototype (if available)
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Why Choose Us?

Expert Team

CA, CS & Legal Experts

Fast Process

Quick turnaround time

Trusted Service

Trusted by businesses

Frequently Asked Questions

What is RKVY-RAFTAAR Scheme?
RKVY-RAFTAAR (Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana - Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied sector Rejuvenation) is a flagship scheme by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India. It aims to promote agri-entrepreneurship and agri-business development by providing financial grants up to ₹25 Lakhs, incubation support for 2 years, mentorship, and infrastructure access through RKVY Agri-Business Incubators (R-ABIs) established across India.
Who is eligible for RKVY-RAFTAAR?
Eligibility includes: Indian citizens above 18 years with innovative agri-business ideas, graduates in Agriculture/Horticulture/Animal Sciences/Fisheries/Food Technology/Allied fields, entrepreneurs with experience in agriculture sector, startups incorporated or willing to incorporate in agriculture and allied domains, individuals willing to undergo 2-year incubation at R-ABI centre, and having scalable and sustainable agri-business model.
How much funding does RKVY-RAFTAAR provide?
RKVY-RAFTAAR provides comprehensive support: Grant of up to ₹25 Lakhs as financial assistance (disbursed in instalments based on milestones), Monthly stipend of ₹5,000 to entrepreneur during incubation period, Seed money for initial activities, Free access to R-ABI infrastructure including labs, equipment, and workspace, Expert mentorship and technical guidance, and networking with industry and market linkages.
What sectors are covered under RKVY-RAFTAAR?
Wide range of agriculture and allied sectors are covered: Crop production, protection, and improvement; Post-harvest management and storage; Food processing and value addition; Dairy, poultry, and livestock; Fisheries and aquaculture; Apiculture (beekeeping); Sericulture; Agri-logistics and cold chain; Farm mechanization and equipment; Precision agriculture and IoT; Agri-fintech and insurance; Organic farming; Vertical farming and protected cultivation; and Agricultural waste management.
How to apply for RKVY-RAFTAAR?
Application process: (1) Identify suitable R-ABI centre based on your domain and location, (2) Prepare comprehensive agri-business plan with innovation details, (3) Apply during R-ABI's open call for applications (usually twice a year), (4) Submit application with all required documents, (5) Shortlisted candidates present to selection committee, (6) Selected startups sign incubation agreement and join programme, (7) Receive support including funding in milestone-based tranches.
What is R-ABI under RKVY-RAFTAAR?
R-ABI (RKVY Agri-Business Incubator) is the implementing unit of RKVY-RAFTAAR scheme. These are established at State Agricultural Universities (SAUs), ICAR institutions, and other agriculture-focused institutes. Each R-ABI has domain expertise, laboratory facilities, land for trials, expert mentors, and industry connections. There are 29+ R-ABIs across India providing comprehensive support to agri-entrepreneurs including funding, infrastructure, and market access.

Related Services

FSSAI License

Food safety compliance for agri-products

DPIIT Recognition

Startup India recognition

MSME Registration

MSME benefits for agri-business

Ready to Apply for RKVY-RAFTAAR?

Transform your agriculture innovation into a successful business. Expert guidance for R-ABI selection and grant application.

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