I-Venture @ ISB, in collaboration with Deshpande Startups, is set to launch a nationwide initiative aimed at identifying and engaging exceptional entrepreneurs who have innovative solutions to address challenges in the Agri and Food sector. The program seeks to nurture and support ventures with high growth potential, providing them with the necessary resources and networking opportunities.

The collaborative effort between I-Venture @ ISB and Deshpande Startups aims to foster the growth of potential ventures by offering handholding support, capacity building, and curated field visits to test and trial their products. Entrepreneurs participating in the initiative will have the opportunity to network with relevant stakeholders and investors, enhancing their chances of success.

The program boasts a comprehensive range of offerings designed to equip entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in the competitive business landscape. Workshops on design thinking, business modeling, go-to-market strategies, and strategic business storytelling are among the many components that will be covered. Additionally, participants will gain insights into essential aspects such as team and organizational structure, negotiation with stakeholders, supply chain and logistics management, and market access.

Ventures interested in participating in the initiative must meet specific criteria, including having been incorporated for a minimum of one year and demonstrating technology validation in the early or late-stage development (TRL 4-5 or above). The program particularly encourages ventures in the early revenue stage with scalability potential to apply. The application process is set to begin in June/July, with shortlisting and onboarding taking place in July/August. Selected entrepreneurs will then undergo a four-month acceleration program from August to November, culminating in a demo day in December.

At the end of the program, entrepreneurs can expect to have improved their products or business models and gained access to supply chains, markets, and potential customers. The program aims to make startups investment-ready, enabling them to raise funds in the near future.