India, Australia announce Climate Smart Agritech programme for start-ups and MSMEs

India and Australia have announced the start of a joint programme involving start-ups and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from both countries for innovation in climate smart agritech applications.

The programme is jointly implemented by the Atal Innovation Mission and CSIRO, Australia under the India Australia Rapid Innovation and Start-up Expansion (RISE) Accelerator, which supports businesses aiming for expansion within the two countries. 

Since the agricultural sector poses the main challenge shared by the two countries, innovation in climate smart agriculture can foster increased cooperation between the two countries in this sector.

Commencing in October 2024, the Climate Smart Agritech innovation programme will focus on new technologies and solutions to enhance agricultural productivity and resilience amid growing climate variability, resource scarcity and food insecurity.

The programme will be of particular interest to start-ups and MSMEs with climate solutions and on-farm practices.      

The RISE Accelerator programme, launched in 2023, supports start-ups and MSMEs in validating, adapting, and piloting innovative farm technologies for new markets. 

Tamara Ogilvie, program director of CSIRO said the programme will enable participants to come out with products that suits diverse markets and rapidly scale their solutions to meet global demands.

Under the programme, the selected start-ups and MSMEs will be provided online and in-person learning sessions, including immersion weeks in both India and Australia. These sessions will address the needs such as market insights, one-on-one coaching, and mentorship. It will also facilitate connections with potential partners and customers.

The nine-month programme will also involve field trials and technology pilot in the latter half.

Highlighting the importance of the program, Pramit Dash, Program Lead, AIM stated, “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”

More specifically, the programme seeks to tackle challenges like boosting agricultural productivity, reducing emissions and optimising the use of natural resources.

Participation in the programme if free of charge for start-ups and SMEs. Besides selected participants may also be eligible for grants of up to Rs45 lakh. There will also be number of opportunities to travel between Australia and India. 

Applications for the RISE Accelerator close on 15 September, according to a government release.