- Eligibility: Indian citizens aged 18 and above with a viable agri-based business idea or functional prototype are eligible to apply. Preference is given to startups working in agriculture, agri-tech, food processing, animal husbandry, and agri-waste management. Student innovators, rural entrepreneurs, and DPIIT-recognized startups (optional but advantageous) are especially encouraged to participate.
- Application: Interested candidates must apply through the official VIKAS-RABI portal during the open call for applications. Required documents include identity proof, pitch deck, startup registration (if available), and bank details. Shortlisted applicants undergo a multi-level selection process including interviews, business evaluations, and scalability assessments.
Vyapar Initiative in Krishi and Agri-Startups – RKVY Agribusiness Incubator (VIKAS-RABI)
Founded Year: July 2018
Location: CAIED, Dr. PDKV, Akola – 444104, Maharashtra
Vyapar Initiative in Krishi and Agri-Startups – RKVY Agribusiness Incubator (VIKAS-RABI) is a pioneering platform launched in October 2018 and hosted at the Centre for Agribusiness Incubation and Entrepreneurship Development (CAIED) under Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth (PDKV), Akola. Funded by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, under the RKVY-RAFTAAR scheme, VIKAS-RABI is among India’s leading Agri Incubators. It serves as a catalyst for rural innovation and agripreneurship by providing structured incubation support including mentoring, seed funding, infrastructure, and market access. With a strong focus on AgriTech, sustainable farming, and value chain development, VIKAS-RABI enables entrepreneurs to build solutions that improve productivity, reduce agri-waste, and uplift farming communities. By bridging academic knowledge with grassroots innovation, the incubator fosters a self-reliant and digitally empowered agri-ecosystem.
Recent News & Updates
A startup under VIKAS-RABI at PDKV, Akola, collaborating with Indian Drone Research & Development Pvt. Ltd., developed a drone system that cleans a 1 MW solar plant in 30 minutes using clean water, saving labor, time, and water. Tested on PDKV’s 600 kW solar plant under Dr. S. R. Kalbande’s guidance, it supports sustainable, scalable agribusiness innovations, aligning with Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India.
Mission and Vision
- Mission: To create a vibrant ecosystem for agri-startups by offering access to resources, mentorship, and funding support, driving innovation in agriculture and allied sectors.
- Vision: To empower Indian agripreneurs by bridging the gap between traditional farming and modern agribusiness solutions, contributing to sustainable rural development and food security.
Services Offered
VIKAS-RABI, as one of the most dynamic Agri Incubators, offers a wide array of services to support rural entrepreneurs and startups:
- Pre-incubation & Orientation Programs – For idea validation and business model refinement.
- Startup Agri-Business Incubation – Technical and financial support for MVP-ready startups.
- Funding Support – Grants ranging from Rs.5–25 lakhs under RKVY-RAFTAAR and private investor connect.
- Mentorship & Training – Guidance from agri-industry leaders, professors, and incubation experts.
- Networking & Exposure – Access to exhibitions, demo days, summits, and industry linkages.
- Infrastructure Access – Office spaces, labs, pilot production units at PDKV Akola.
- Market Linkages – Ties with FPOs, agri-companies, and government distribution platforms.
These services empower entrepreneurs to develop sustainable, scalable solutions that benefit farmers and rural supply chains.
Eligibility & Application
Leadership & Partnerships
- Leadership: VIKAS-RABI is led by an expert team at Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth (PDKV), Akola. This includes experienced incubation managers, agribusiness mentors, and academic advisors who provide tailored guidance, technical support, and strategic inputs to help startups grow in the agri-sector. Their collaborative expertise ensures that each incubatee receives relevant, impactful mentorship for real-world challenges.
- Partnerships: The incubator works closely with the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare under the RKVY-RAFTAAR scheme, along with Startup India, FPOs, financial institutions, and private industry players. These partnerships empower Agri Incubators by offering funding, mentoring, pilot testing, and market access to help startups scale efficiently. The synergy between public and private entities creates a robust pipeline for innovation and adoption in Indian agriculture.
Events & Outreach
VIKAS-RABI actively hosts and participates in agri-entrepreneurship engagement events, such as:
- Startup bootcamps and agri-innovation challenges.
- Pitch days and demo sessions for investors.
- Exposure visits and field demonstrations.
- Capacity-building workshops and training programs.
- Collaboration with KVKs and rural FPOs for community outreach.
- Participation in national exhibitions and agriculture conclaves.
These activities ensure visibility, knowledge exchange, and adoption of emerging agri-technologies.
Contact Information
- Address: CAIED, Dr. PDKV, Akola – 444104, Maharashtra, India
- Email: vikasrabi.pdkv@gmail.com
- Website: www.ndri.res.in
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