MANAGE-CIA RKVY-RAFTAAR Startup Agribusiness Incubation Program (SAIP) Cohort 15

The Startup Agribusiness Incubation Program (SAIP), part of the RKVY-RAFTAAR scheme, is a key initiative for funding and incubating startups in the agricultural sector. This program is managed by the MANAGE Centre for Innovation and Agripreneurship (CIA) and implemented by a-IDEA, ICAR-NAARM. It is specifically designed to assist agri-based startups that have successfully developed a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and are prepared to advance towards commercialization and market expansion.

SAIP offers grant-in-aid funding of up to ₹25 lakh to eligible startups. This financial support is intended to help businesses refine their products, conduct necessary trials, launch into the market, and ultimately scale their operations. The funding structure is comprehensive, covering various business activities such as product testing, marketing launch initiatives, intellectual property expenses, manpower costs, and general operational expenditures. Startups are required to contribute a portion of the total project cost, which fosters commitment and shared responsibility.

Funding is disbursed in stages, contingent upon the achievement of specific milestones and successful performance evaluations. This phased approach ensures accountability and motivates startups to meet their defined growth objectives. Beyond financial aid, the program also provides extensive incubation support, including tailored training and mentorship, to help startups strengthen their business strategies and operational capabilities.

The SAIP program incorporates a robust government evaluation process. Initial assessments are conducted by the MANAGE incubation committee. Following this, startups undergo further evaluation by the RKVY-RAFTAAR Selection and Investment Committee, which grants final approval for funding. This multi-layered evaluation system ensures that only high-potential startups receive support.

• Grant funding up to ₹25 lakh available.
• Specifically for DPIIT-recognised agribusiness startups.
• Requires a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) for eligibility.
• Includes comprehensive incubation support, training, and mentoring.
• Managed by a-IDEA, ICAR-NAARM under MANAGE-CIA.
• Application deadline is March 31, 2026.

To be eligible for the MANAGE-CIA RKVY-RAFTAAR Startup Agribusiness Incubation Program, applicants must meet several key criteria:

• The applicant must be a legally registered entity in India.
• The startup must have developed a Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
• The business must qualify as an Indian startup according to the guidelines set by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
• Indian subsidiaries of foreign companies are not eligible to apply.
• Startups must not have previously received any grant-in-aid from any central or state government body.
• Startups that have already received seed support under this specific RKVY-RAFTAAR scheme are not eligible for further support under this cohort.

MANAGE-CIA RKVY-RAFTAAR Startup Agribusiness Incubation Program (SAIP) Cohort 15 is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.

The most recent application window for MANAGE-CIA RKVY-RAFTAAR Startup Agribusiness Incubation Program (SAIP) Cohort 15 closed on 31 Mar 2026. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.

Successful applicants of the MANAGE-CIA RKVY-RAFTAAR Startup Agribusiness Incubation Program can receive significant benefits:

• Grant-in-aid funding of up to ₹25 lakh to support various business activities.
• Financial assistance covers expenses such as product testing, market launch activities, intellectual property costs, manpower, and operational expenditures.
• The funding is designed to help startups refine their products, conduct trials, launch into the market, and scale their operations.
• Recipients also benefit from comprehensive incubation support, which includes specialized training and expert mentoring to enhance business strategies and operational efficiency.

MANAGE-CIA RKVY-RAFTAAR Startup Agribusiness Incubation Program (SAIP) Cohort 15 is offered by a-IDEA, ICAR-NAARM, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by a-IDEA, ICAR-NAARM as a grant. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.

The selection process for the MANAGE-CIA RKVY-RAFTAAR Startup Agribusiness Incubation Program involves a multi-stage evaluation to identify high-potential startups. Initially, all applicant startups are assessed by the MANAGE incubation committee. Following this preliminary evaluation, selected startups proceed to a subsequent review. The final funding approval is determined by the RKVY-RAFTAAR Selection and Investment Committee, which conducts a thorough evaluation.

Before you apply to MANAGE-CIA RKVY-RAFTAAR Startup Agribusiness Incubation Program (SAIP) Cohort 15, 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.

MANAGE-CIA RKVY-RAFTAAR Startup Agribusiness Incubation Program (SAIP) Cohort 15 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹25L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.