Microsoft announced the launch of its new program “Microsoft for Agritech Startups” in a bid to promote agritech startups in India. The aim is to boost innovation in agriculture through this agritech accelerator. Microsoft is trying to help startups develop digital solutions to maximise productivity, improve market linkages, increase supply chain efficiency, and provide greater access to inputs for agricultural-related businesses.
In order to help startups improve on in data processing, they will also receive free access to Azure FarmBeats as part of this accelerator program. Azure FarmBeats enables aggregation of agricultural datasets across providers and generation of actionable insights by building artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) models based on fused datasets. This will help startups in finding customized solutions. Microsoft stated that all the Indian startups that have been able to raise seed capital to Series C funding will get the benefits of Azure, technical support and help with onboarding Azure Marketplace.
Sangeeta Bavi, Director of Microsoft for Startups in India, said that the program is one of the many early steps in the process of empowering Indian startups and leading a transformation in global agricultural practices.
The agritech accelerator program consists of three tiers and will be offering various benefits including tech enablement and business resources. Using Microsoft’s partner ecosystem, Indian startups that already have enterprise-ready solutions can work with other startups that focus on marketing strategies, technical support, and new sales opportunities.
Microsoft wishes to bring together startups, corporates, industry bodies, governments, and venture capital firms on to a shared platform of learning and discovery of innovative methods.
India has more than 1090 agritech startups that are working on solutions to improve the lives of farmers while addressing the supply chain issues. From high-tech drones, IoT devices, and data analytics to AI and satellite imagery, India’s agritech startups have contributed to critical corners of the agriculture industry. Startups such as WayCool, Ninjacart, AgNext, Aquaconnect, Fasal, Freshokartz, Gramophone, O4S, and Intello Labs have helped increase the amount of funding raised by the sector by 350% in 2019.
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