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SBI Foundation and Villgro launch 'Innovators for Bharat' for agritech startups

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SBI Foundation and Villgro have launched the ‘Innovators for Bharat’ program to support 14 innovative agritech startups. With initial funding of Rs 3.25 crore, the program is unlocking an additional amount through NBFC partner NABKISAN, totaling Rs 6 crore in support for these startups. The initiative aims to help early and growth-stage startups address agricultural challenges and the impacts of climate change. By fostering tech solutions, the program seeks to improve the income and sustainability of smallholder farmers. The 14 supported startups include Bharat Rohan, RAAV Techlabs, Navork Innovations, Marut Drones, GreyMatter (Upaz), Carbon Masters, Raheja Solar, Ekosight, Pasidi Panta, Agrosperity (Kivi), Krimanshi, RuKart, GreenSupply, and E-Feed. These startups focus on reducing post-harvest losses, utilizing agricultural waste, and mitigating CO2 emissions. Over the next two years, the program aims to impact the lives of 10,000 individuals, promote sustainable practices on 60,000 acres, and prevent 15,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions. The program includes funding support from SBI Foundation, which will also offer a network of banking and financial institutions for mentorship, along with partnerships for field trials. Villgro has previously supported 323 social enterprises that raised over Rs 438.8 crore in investments and created 4,922 jobs, positively impacting over 20 million lives. SBI Foundation, the CSR arm of the State Bank Group, works across India to provide resources to vulnerable communities through strategic partnerships.