Vol. 7, Issue 11, Part A (2025)

The landscape of Agri startups in India is undergoing rapid transformation, propelled by increased investments, technological advancement, and proactive government initiatives. The growth trajectory of startups typically progresses throughout the stages of ideation, concept development, commitment, validation, scaling and establishment. Funding sources evolved accordingly, beginning with pre seed and seed stages, followed by early-stage deals, late-stage financing, bridge loans, mezzanine finance, and ultimately, Initial Public Offerings (IPO). The present study is based on data collected from both primary and secondary sources. Eight major Agri startup sectors were identified, with Agri tech accounts for the highest share (42 per cent), followed by food processing (17 per cent) and organic agriculture (15 per cent), while other sector include horticulture, animal husbandry and dairy. Maharashtra leads the nation with 1,363 Agri startups, followed by Gujrat (700) and Karnataka (621), Where Assam ranks seventeen with 124 startups. An analysis of funding received by startups between 2016 to 2024 revealed a substantial annual growth rate of 26.60 per cent, which is statistically significant at 1 per cent level. However, the number of startups founded each year showed a comparatively lower growth rate of 9.43 per cent, also significant at the 1 per cent level. Funding data sourced from the Tracxn database indicated that Agri startups collectively received approximately USD 1.6 billion in 2024. Forecast projections suggest this figure will rise to USD 1.31 billion in 2025 and may reach USD 4.30 billion by 2030, highlighting a strong upward trajectory. Details of 21 Agri startups from Assam are also presented. Despite challenges, continuous policy support, institutional strengthening, and entrepreneurial enthusiasm are expected to accelerate sectoral growth and enable Agri startups to make a sustainable contribution to Indian Economy.