Atal Innovation Mission and CSIRO Launch Climate Smart Agritech Cohort for India-Australia RISE Accelerator

Atal Innovation Mission and CSIRO Launch Climate Smart Agritech Cohort for India-Australia RISE Accelerator

The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), in collaboration with CSIRO Australia, is launching the Climate Smart Agritech cohort as part of the India Australia Rapid Innovation and Start-up Expansion (RISE) Accelerator. This initiative supports start-ups and MSMEs from both countries aiming to expand internationally, focusing on innovations in agriculture.

Program Details

Commencement: October 2024
Duration: Nine months
Focus: Enhancing agricultural productivity and resilience amid climate variability, resource scarcity, and food insecurity.

Program Highlights

  • Target Participants: Start-ups and MSMEs with technologies and solutions designed to address agricultural challenges.
  • Special Interest: Solutions that prioritize farmer needs and on-farm practices.

Key Features

  • Learning Opportunities: Combination of self-paced online modules and in-person sessions.
  • Immersion Weeks: In-depth market insights and networking opportunities in both India and Australia.
  • Support: One-on-one coaching, mentorship from industry experts, and potential connections with partners and customers.
  • Field Trials: Technology piloting in the latter half of the program.

Statements from Leaders

  • Tamara Ogilvie, Program Director, CSIRO: “This cohort will enable participants to achieve product-market fit in diverse markets and rapidly scale their solutions to meet global demands.”
  • Pramit Dash, Program Lead, AIM: “The RISE Accelerator program addresses immediate agricultural challenges and ensures farmers can access resilient practices tailored to their needs.”

Application Details

  • Deadline: 15 September 2024
  • Participation Fee: None
  • Travel Opportunities: Eligible for travel between Australia and India
  • Grant: Up to INR 45 lakhs in non-equity funding may be available

Apply Here: RISE Accelerator Application

About the RISE Accelerator

The RISE Accelerator is a bilateral program led by CSIRO and the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, addressing shared environmental and climate challenges through innovative agritech solutions.


Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):

  1. What is the primary focus of the Climate Smart Agritech cohort of the RISE Accelerator?
    • A) Enhancing urban infrastructure
    • B) Improving healthcare technology
    • C) Boosting agricultural productivity and resilience
    • D) Developing renewable energy solutions
    Answer: C) Boosting agricultural productivity and resilience
  2. When does the Climate Smart Agritech cohort of the RISE Accelerator begin?
    • A) January 2024
    • B) April 2024
    • C) October 2024
    • D) July 2024
    Answer: C) October 2024
  3. What are the key benefits provided by the RISE Accelerator program?
    • A) Business management training
    • B) Self-paced learning and immersion weeks
    • C) Real estate investment opportunities
    • D) Marketing and advertising campaigns
    Answer: B) Self-paced learning and immersion weeks
  4. What is the application deadline for the RISE Accelerator program?
    • A) 15 August 2024
    • B) 15 September 2024
    • C) 15 October 2024
    • D) 15 November 2024
    Answer: B) 15 September 2024
  5. How much non-equity grant may selected start-ups/SMEs be eligible for?
    • A) INR 10 lakhs
    • B) INR 25 lakhs
    • C) INR 45 lakhs
    • D) INR 50 lakhs
    Answer: C) INR 45 lakhs