SoilBox Cohort 4
SoilBox Cohort 4, anchored at riidl SVU and funded by OmniActive, offers Agritech startups grants up to ₹10 Lakhs, mentorship, and extensive ecosystem support to tackle critical agricultural challenges.
- Funding amount
- ₹10L (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- RIIDL, Somaiya Vidyavihar University (Academic)
- Application deadline
- 31 Jul 2026
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
SoilBox Cohort 4 is an accelerator for Agritech startups, hosted by riidl at Somaiya Vidyavihar University (SVU) and funded by OmniActive. The program targets innovators building solutions to boost farm productivity, encourage sustainable practices, strengthen climate resilience, and improve farmer incomes across India. It is presented by the Improving Lives Foundation. Partnering with AIC Baramati Foundation, IIM Calcutta Innovation Park, SSN iFound, a-IDEA (ICAR-NAARM), and IIT Mandi Catalyst, SoilBox gives startups access to a broad network of expertise, resources, and market connections. The goal is to help early-stage ventures turn ideas into scalable, sustainable businesses that drive real change in agriculture.
Highlights
- Grant funding up to ₹10 Lakhs
- Focus on Agritech startups
- Mentorship and ecosystem support
- Backed by riidl SVU and OmniActive
- Access to a strong network of partners
- Deadline: 31st July 2026
Who can apply
SoilBox Cohort 4 invites Agritech startups from across India that are building innovative solutions for agriculture. Your venture should tackle challenges in farm productivity, environmental sustainability, climate adaptation, or farmer livelihoods. While there are no strict stage or legal entity restrictions, the program strongly favors startups with a clear vision for real-world impact and scalability. The emphasis is on the potential of your solution to make a meaningful difference.
SoilBox Cohort 4 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
Applications for SoilBox Cohort 4 are open and the current deadline is 31 Jul 2026. Applications are closing soon, so prepare your documents early. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.
What the funding covers
Selected startups receive non-repayable grants of up to ₹10 Lakhs. Beyond funding, the program offers tailored mentorship from industry veterans and domain experts, extensive ecosystem support including access to a network of innovation partners and investors, and growth opportunities designed to accelerate market entry and business development. This holistic package aims to equip founders with the resources, knowledge, and connections to build an impactful Agritech business.
About the provider
SoilBox Cohort 4 is offered by RIIDL, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, an academic institution. It is delivered directly by RIIDL, Somaiya Vidyavihar University as a grant. 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 are first screened by the team at riidl SVU and program partners to check alignment with SoilBox's objectives and basic eligibility. This initial review assesses the problem clarity, uniqueness and feasibility of the solution, and the strength of the founding team. Shortlisted startups then undergo a deeper evaluation, which may include detailed proposal reviews, virtual interviews, and presentations to a panel of expert judges, mentors, and stakeholders. Final selections prioritize ventures with strong potential for agricultural impact, a viable business model, and a solid commitment to execution.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to SoilBox Cohort 4, 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.
Who this is best for
SoilBox Cohort 4 is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹10L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of startups is SoilBox Cohort 4 looking for?
The program seeks Agritech startups with innovative solutions addressing key agricultural challenges such as productivity, sustainability, climate resilience, and farmer livelihood improvement. Solutions that demonstrate potential for impact and scalability are especially encouraged.
How much funding can I receive and what type is it?
Selected startups can receive up to ₹10 Lakhs in non-repayable grants. The final amount depends on the proposal, potential impact, and financial needs, and is typically disbursed in milestones. No equity is taken.
Is the program open to startups from all states in India?
Yes, the program is open to eligible Agritech startups from across India. There are no state-based restrictions as long as your startup meets the core Agritech focus.
Does SoilBox take equity in my startup?
No. The funding is a grant, which is non-repayable and does not require any equity. Founders retain full ownership of their ventures.
What non-financial support does SoilBox provide?
Apart from the grant, startups receive mentorship from industry experts, access to a broad network of innovation and industry partners (including AIC Baramati, IIM Calcutta Innovation Park, etc.), ecosystem support from riidl, investor introductions, and market access facilitation.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline for SoilBox Cohort 4 is July 31st, 2026. It is advisable to apply well before the deadline.
Do I need to have a registered company to apply?
While the eligibility does not specify mandatory registration, the program expects startups to have a clear vision and viable business model. Having a registered entity may be beneficial but is not explicitly required.
How do I apply?
Applications are submitted online through the official application form at https://airtable.com/appbTDPMS8irFpGAB/shr9G68Im3TKyq6aK. You will need to provide details about your startup, team, problem, solution, market opportunity, business model, and financial projections. Supporting documents like pitch deck, team resumes, incorporation papers, DPIIT certificate (if applicable), and IP/proof-of-concept materials may be requested.
Is DPIIT recognition required for SoilBox Cohort 4?
No. DPIIT (Startup India) recognition is not listed as a mandatory requirement for SoilBox Cohort 4, though having it can strengthen your application and unlock other benefits.
Who is eligible to apply for SoilBox Cohort 4?
SoilBox Cohort 4 is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
Who offers SoilBox Cohort 4?
SoilBox Cohort 4 is offered by RIIDL, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, an academic institution. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
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Alternatives to SoilBox Cohort 4
Not sure SoilBox Cohort 4 is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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