CIRCOT SHITIJ 2.0 – ₹Varies Grant Incubation for Agritech Startups (2026-27)
Two-month intensive incubation for early-stage agritech startups in Farm Mechanisation and Post-Harvest Technology, offering mentorship, funding connect, and pan-India access.
- Funding amount
- Varies by program
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- ICAR-CIRCOT R-ABI (Government)
- Application deadline
- Closed (28 Jul 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
CIRCOT SHITIJ 2.0 is a national-level incubation programme launched by ICAR-CIRCOT, Mumbai, under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research's National Agricultural Innovation Fund (NAIF). It aims to identify, nurture, and accelerate innovative ideas and early-stage startups focused on Farm Mechanisation and Post-Harvest Technology—critical areas for boosting agricultural productivity and reducing post-harvest losses in India.
The programme operates on a Hub & Spoke model, with ICAR-CIRCOT as the central hub and seven other ICAR institutes as regional spokes. This distributed structure leverages the scientific expertise across the ICAR network to provide tailored, region-specific support while pursuing a unified national goal. Participants receive a structured pathway covering technology validation, business model refinement, and market access, all aimed at turning promising concepts into market-ready solutions.
By combining mentorship, infrastructure, funding connections, and regulatory guidance, SHITIJ 2.0 seeks to build a robust ecosystem for agritech innovation, contributing to the modernization and sustainability of Indian agriculture.
Highlights
- Two-month intensive incubation
- Expert mentorship from ICAR scientists
- Focus on Farm Mechanisation & Post-Harvest Tech
- Technology validation & field testing support
- Funding connect opportunities
- Pan-India virtual and physical incubation access
Who can apply
Open to innovators, early-stage startups, entrepreneurs, students, researchers, and MSMEs from across India.
Applicants must have a proof-of-concept, prototype, or Minimum Viable Product (MVP) in Farm Mechanisation or Post-Harvest Technology.
CIRCOT SHITIJ 2.0 – ₹Varies Grant Incubation for Agritech Startups (2026-27) is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Deadline & timing
The most recent application window for CIRCOT SHITIJ 2.0 – ₹Varies Grant Incubation for Agritech Startups (2026-27) closed on 28 Jul 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Selected participants receive a two-month intensive incubation programme designed to refine their ideas into market-ready solutions. This equity-free support includes:
- One-to-one guidance from experienced ICAR scientists and industry experts.
- Technology validation and field testing support.
- Business model development, commercialization strategies, and market linkages.
- Intellectual Property (IP), licensing, and regulatory guidance.
- Funding connect with government grants, private investors, and financial institutions.
- Virtual incubation for pan-India access.
- Physical access to incubation facilities and technical infrastructure at Hub and Spoke institutes.
About the provider
CIRCOT SHITIJ 2.0 – ₹Varies Grant Incubation for Agritech Startups (2026-27) is offered by ICAR-CIRCOT R-ABI, a government body. As a government-backed grant, it is publicly funded and open to eligible startups across India. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
Applications undergo a preliminary screening by regional experts at the Spoke Institutes to check alignment with programme objectives and eligibility.
Shortlisted applications are then reviewed by a centralized Startup Selection Committee at the Hub Institute (ICAR-CIRCOT, Mumbai), comprising ICAR scientists, industry experts, and innovation ecosystem leaders. They evaluate proposals on innovation, technical feasibility, market potential, team capability, and agricultural impact.
Finalists may be invited for a presentation or interview to assess readiness. The selected cohort is chosen to include diverse, high-potential startups.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to CIRCOT SHITIJ 2.0 – ₹Varies Grant Incubation for Agritech Startups (2026-27), keep the following documents ready:
- A pitch deck or short business plan describing the problem, product and traction
- Company registration documents and PAN
- Founder identification (PAN / Aadhaar) and brief profiles
- Recent financial statements or projections
- Product details — a demo, prototype or working link if available
Exact requirements are confirmed on the official application portal — treat this as a preparation checklist.
Frequently asked questions
What is the primary focus of CIRCOT SHITIJ 2.0?
The programme targets innovative ideas and early-stage startups in Farm Mechanisation and Post-Harvest Technology, aiming to boost efficiency, reduce losses, and improve farmer incomes.
Who can apply for this incubation programme?
Innovators, early-stage startups, entrepreneurs, students, researchers, and MSMEs from across India are eligible, provided they have a proof-of-concept, prototype, or MVP in the relevant domains.
Does the programme provide direct funding?
No, the programme does not disburse direct cash. Instead, it offers 'funding connect' services to help startups access government grants, private investors, and financial institutions.
What is the deadline to apply?
Applications must be submitted online by 28 July 2026, 11:30 PM IST.
Do I need to relocate for the programme?
No, physical relocation is not required. Virtual incubation is available pan-India, but physical presence may be needed for lab work or field testing at certain facilities.
Is this programme equity-free?
Yes, the support provided under SHITIJ 2.0 is equity-free.
What documents are typically required for application?
You will need a pitch deck, proof-of-concept/prototype details, and incorporation documents for startups or MSMEs. Ensure all sections of the online form are accurately completed.
How do I apply for CIRCOT SHITIJ 2.0?
Visit the official application portal at https://icarcircot.accubate.app/ext/form/23885/1/apply and fill out the online form before the deadline.
Is DPIIT recognition required for CIRCOT SHITIJ 2.0 – ₹Varies Grant Incubation for Agritech Startups (2026-27)?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for CIRCOT SHITIJ 2.0 – ₹Varies Grant Incubation for Agritech Startups (2026-27), though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who offers CIRCOT SHITIJ 2.0 – ₹Varies Grant Incubation for Agritech Startups (2026-27)?
CIRCOT SHITIJ 2.0 – ₹Varies Grant Incubation for Agritech Startups (2026-27) is offered by ICAR-CIRCOT R-ABI, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
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