Program Overview

The KSHITIJ Incubation Programme 2026 is a government‑supported incubation opportunity for early‑stage agri‑startups focused on food processing, value addition, and waste‑to‑wealth innovations. Managed by the ICAR‑ABI Network, the scheme aims to strengthen India’s agribusiness innovation ecosystem and accelerate commercialisation of agri‑tech solutions.

Key Benefits & Support

Selected startups will join a one‑month virtual cohort that provides comprehensive mentorship and networking.

• Mentorship & Technical Guidance: One‑on‑one sessions with domain experts and ICAR scientists, technology deep‑dives, and business model refinement.
• Business Growth & Networking: Market linkage support, connections with industry stakeholders, and advisory assistance on commercialisation, IP, and regulatory matters.
• Certification & Recognition: Certificate of completion and visibility within the ICAR incubation ecosystem and partner networks.

Eligibility Criteria

Startups must meet the following basic conditions:

• Registered enterprise with a proven proof of concept (PoC), prototype, or MVP.
• Core idea centred on agriculture, food processing, or waste‑to‑wealth solutions.
• Founders ready to commit to a one‑month virtual programme.
• All application documents submitted accurately before the deadline.

Exact eligibility details are available in the official application form.

Application Process

1. Visit the official application link.
2. Complete all sections (team, product, market, stage, traction).
3. Upload required documents (pitch deck, prototype information, founder IDs).
4. Submit before the closing date.
5. Await shortlisting and further communication from the organisers.

Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.

Important Dates

• Application Start Date: 06 January 2026
• Application Closing Date: 21 January 2026
• Approximately 15 days left to apply (subject to confirmation).

Selection Process

After submission, shortlisted startups are evaluated on innovation, viability, and impact. The final cohort is announced, and selected participants join the virtual incubation for structured training, mentorship sessions, and networking workshops throughout the month.

Why This Scheme Matters for Agri‑Entrepreneurs

The KSHITIJ programme stands out because it is backed by ICAR’s national agri‑innovation ecosystem and involves multiple ICAR institutes and incubation partners. It offers early‑stage founders structured support, ecosystem access, and a practical pathway to scale technical and commercial aspects of their agri‑innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this scheme open to international startups?
No. The programme is primarily aimed at Indian startups and entrepreneurs (refer to official terms for details).

Is there a participation fee?
The incubation support is generally free, but applicants should verify any specific terms on the official form.

Can students apply?
Yes, student‑led startups with valid registrations and prototypes are eligible.

What happens after the one‑month programme?
Participating startups may gain access to next‑stage acceleration opportunities, funding channels, and broader industry connections.

Apply Now

Submit your application through the official link below:

https://nutrihub.accubate.app/ext/form/18443/1/apply