CIIE.CO, the Startup continuum of IIM-A, is partnering with the government of Assam to boost 100 agri startups in the North East region through the Assam Agri Growth Lab initiative. The World Bank-funded initiative’s first-year cohort witnessed the successful acceleration of 25 startups, with the organization now looking to support an additional 100 startups, particularly in the agriculture sector, originating from Assam and the North East region.
Assam and the North East region are known for their vast natural resources, making them an ideal location for agricultural startups. However, the lack of proper guidance and finance limits the growth of these startups. Therefore, the Assam Agri Growth Lab’s primary aim is to identify and support such startups by providing them with the necessary resources. The partnership with CIIE.CO is expected to strengthen this initiative further.
The startups chosen for the program will receive support in various aspects, including business model validation, mentorship, fundraising, and networking opportunities. The program will provide regular feedback and guidance throughout the acceleration process, ensuring the startups scale up effectively.
Assam Chief Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal, expressed his gratitude towards CIIE.CO for partnering with the government and contributing to the growth of the North East region’s startup ecosystem. He reiterated the government’s commitment to support startup ventures in various sectors and hopes that the Assam Agri Growth Lab will help realize the state’s goal of becoming a self-sufficient state in the agricultural sector.
The collaboration between CIIE.CO and the government of Assam is expected to create a significant impact on the region’s startup ecosystem, helping startups in the agricultural sector to unlock their full potential. These startups could contribute to the region’s economic growth by creating job opportunities and increasing production in the agriculture sector.
The partnership comes at a time when India’s agricultural sector is facing numerous challenges. These startups can potentially resolve some of the sector’s woes by introducing innovative solutions and creating a sustainable ecosystem. The success of the initiative will undoubtedly attract more fundings and collaborations from various national and international organizations and contribute to the country’s vision of becoming a leader in the startup ecosystem.
