IARI-Pusa Krishi Invites Applications for UPJA & ARISE Grant-in-aid Programs 2026-27 with Funding up to ₹25 Lakhs

IARI-Pusa Krishi is inviting applications from eligible startups for its flagship Grant-in-Aid programs - UPJA (Seed) and ARISE (Pre-seed) for FY2026–27 under the RKVY-RAFTAAR initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. These programs are specially designed to support agripreneurs with funding, mentorship, incubation and market linkages so they can transform innovative ideas into scalable agri ventures.

UPJA - Seed Stage Support

UPJA is a dedicated agribusiness incubation program focused on strengthening India’s agri-startup ecosystem. It is ideal for startups that have moved beyond the prototype stage and are ready to launch or expand their products in the market.

Selected startups under UPJA can receive:

• Funding support of up to ₹25 lakhs
• Technology validation and product refinement
• Business mentoring from experts
• Pilot and field-testing opportunities
• Go-to-market strategy support
• Industry networking and investor connect
• Access to incubation infrastructure and ecosystem support

The program aims to help startups scale efficiently while addressing real agricultural challenges through innovation and technology.

ARISE - Pre-seed Support for Early-stage Ideas

ARISE is a pre-seed incubation program created for aspiring agripreneurs who are at the idea stage or in the early stages of building their startup. It provides a strong foundation for transforming innovative concepts into impactful and sustainable agri-solutions.

Benefits under ARISE include:

• Funding support of up to ₹5 lakhs
• One-on-one mentorship and expert guidance
• Business and technology validation
• Exposure to industry trends and networks
• Support in developing business models
• Assistance in identifying market opportunities

This program is especially beneficial for first-time founders and innovators looking to enter the agriculture and allied sectors.

Student Orientation Program

Students with entrepreneurial ambitions also have a unique opportunity to participate in the Student Orientation Program. This initiative encourages young innovators to explore agri-entrepreneurship and convert their ideas into workable solutions.

Key highlights:

• Funding support of up to ₹4 lakhs
• Mentorship from industry and academic experts
• Idea development and validation support
• Entrepreneurial exposure and training
• Networking opportunities within the startup ecosystem

Impact Created by IARI-Pusa Krishi

So far, IARI-Pusa Krishi has:

• Funded 231 startups under the RKVY Innovation & Agri-Entrepreneurship Programme
• Mentored and trained 606 startups through various incubation and entrepreneurship development initiatives

These programs have played an important role in promoting innovation, sustainable agriculture and rural entrepreneurship across India.

Who Can Apply?

Applications are open for:

• Indian citizens
• Individuals with innovative agri-business ideas
• Early-stage and growth-stage agri startups
• Students interested in agri-entrepreneurship

Detailed program-specific eligibility criteria are available on the official website.

Important Dates

• Last Date to Apply: 17 May 2026

Apply Here

Direct Application Link

Step into the future of agriculture - build, innovate and scale your agri-business with the support of IARI-Pusa Krishi. This could be the opportunity that transforms your idea into a successful venture.