Export-focused programme supports 100 startups as APEDA strengthens innovation-driven growth across India’s agri-food exports ecosystem.
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has concluded the first cohort of the BHARATI (Bharat’s Hub for Agri-tech, Resilience, Advancement and Incubation for Export Innovation) programme, an initiative aimed at helping startups develop solutions that strengthen India’s agricultural and processed food exports sector.
The programme brought together 100 startups selected from more than 700 applications received from across the country. Participants represented 22 states and two Union Territories and were chosen through a multi-stage evaluation process. The cohort included agri-tech firms, exporters, technology service providers and innovators working in areas such as food safety, quality assurance, traceability, compliance solutions and post-harvest technologies.
Launched in July 2024, BHARATI was designed to identify and support emerging enterprises developing products and technologies that can enhance export competitiveness. APEDA said the initiative seeks to strengthen the country’s agricultural export ecosystem by connecting startups with market opportunities, industry stakeholders and global buyers.
During the programme, startups received export-oriented mentorship, access to industry experts, masterclasses, networking opportunities and support in engaging with government agencies, financial institutions and international buyers. APEDA also facilitated participation for selected startups at Gulfood 2026 in Dubai, enabling them to showcase their products and innovations on a global platform.
The programme has already delivered commercial outcomes for several participating companies. A Lucknow-based startup secured export orders worth approximately ₹37 lakh for millet-based ready-to-cook products from buyers in Auckland and New Zealand. Another Karnataka-based startup received repeat export orders of around ₹1.25 million for sapodilla puree destined for Middle Eastern markets.
Additional participants reported export opportunities across the UAE, Oman, Cameroon, Japan, the United States and European markets, covering products ranging from mango-based offerings and processed foods to agricultural technologies and farm solutions.
APEDA said the completion of the first BHARATI cohort marks an important step in integrating innovation and entrepreneurship into India’s agricultural export strategy. The authority noted that the initiative is expected to continue supporting export-ready startups while contributing to diversification, value addition and long-term growth in the country’s agri-food exports sector.
Source: This article is based on an offficial press release issued by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India
Press Release Page | Press Information Bureau
