About the forum
The Farms & Frontiers: Uttar Pradesh (India)–Israel AgTech Innovators Forum presents a unique opportunity to foster collaboration between start-ups from India and Israel, with a focus on digital agricultural innovations targeted at the Eastern Uttar Pradesh (UP) and Bundelkhand regions.
The initiative, aimed at strengthening UP’s agricultural ecosystem through scalable, technology-driven solutions, is supported by the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Agriculture & Food Security, Government of Israel, through the FoodSystems 2030 Multi-Donor Trust Fund administered by the World Bank. The initiative is a part of the Uttar Pradesh Agriculture Growth and Rural Enterprise Ecosystem Strengthening Project (UP-AGREES) implemented by the Government of Uttar Pradesh.
This forum will serve as a matchmaking platform for Indian and Israeli startups, fostering mutual collaboration over an intensive two-month mentorship period.
Partners
The forum offers participation opportunities through 2 channels:
Channel 1:
Innovators
Channel 2:
Champions
Startups with solutions in the identified thematic areas will have the opportunity to build cross-border partnerships and receive mentorship to refine their innovations for the specific needs of Eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bundelkhand regions. Selected solutions may also have the chance to pilot and scale their models in real-world settings through the UP-AGREES project.
Individuals or startups from India and Israel who are experts in their domain and are willing to guide innovators in co-developing relevant and scalable solutions through workshops and one-on-one sessions are invited to join the initiative. The experts will provide hands-on support to help AgTech innovators transform their ideas into viable, impactful solutions.
#AgTech Startups Interested in Developing Solutions Will Be Called ‘Innovators’ for the Purpose of the Forum.
Why agtech solution providers
should invest in Eastern Uttar
Pradesh and Bundelkhand?
Uttar Pradesh contributes ~8% to India’s GDP and has ~17% of the population.
Ranks 1st in potato (32.35%), 2nd in vegetables (14.11%), and 3rd in fruits (10.03%) production.
Kalanamak rice (GI-tagged) produced 15,000 MT in 2021, with only ~7% exported.
Eastern UP and Bundelkhand face low productivity, small landholdings, poor soil, and erratic rainfall.
The state is adopting AgTech, AI, and digital tools to boost yields and farmer incomes.
The state is boosting exports, attracting private investment, and promoting good agricultural practices.
Why partnership with
Israeli AgTech ecosystem
can transform
agriculture in UP?
Addressing similar agricultural challenges in Eastern UP
and Bundelkhand
such as sparse arable land, water shortages, climate change and erratic rainfall
Delivering sustainable, future-ready solutions
as Israeli AgTech companies are leading the way in sparse land (only 20% arable land), and semi-arid climatic conditions
Offering advanced technology entrepreneurial ecosystem,
with a unique blend of cutting-edge innovation and environmental stewardship that is redefining global agriculture
Why partnership with
Israeli AgTech ecosystem
can transform
agriculture in UP?
Addressing similar agricultural challenges in Eastern UP
and Bundelkhand
such as sparse arable land, water shortages, climate change and erratic rainfall
Delivering sustainable, future-ready solutions
as Israeli AgTech companies are leading the way in sparse land (only 20% arable land), and semi-arid climatic conditions
Offering advanced technology entrepreneurial ecosystem,
with a unique blend of cutting-edge innovation and environmental stewardship that is redefining global agriculture
Thematic Areas we want innovators to enable
END-TO-END DIGITAL TRACEABILITY (FOR KALANAMAK VARIETY OF RICE)
To boost value and quality of Geographical Indication-tagged crops, especially for Kalanamak variety of rice
- RFID, QR codes, blockchain, and IoT-based system
- E-commerce market platforms utilizing traceability layers
- Technology-enabled farmer payment transparency
- Geo-tagged input tracking for compliance
Precise, real-time, hyperlocal insights for farmers
To guide input use and improve the quality and yield of the different crops in Eastern/Bundelkhand regions of UP
- Hyperlocal crop, soil and climate advisory
- Semi/Autonomous Machinery
- Variable Rate Technology (VRT) or Innovative input delivery
- IoT sensors and control systems
- Farm Management Platforms
Reliable, farm-level data on soil organic
carbon
To monitor soil health, design regenerative practices, and participate in carbon markets
- Hyperlocal soil organic carbon (SOC) monitoring systems
- Satellite imagery-based assessment of SOC and vegetation health
- Data Management and Carbon Credit Platforms
Join Us to Showcase Your Best Innovative Solutions and Leverage the Expertise of Distinguished Stalwarts in the Field!
We are looking for
Channel 1:
Innovators from India
Seeking opportunities for piloting, scaling, partnerships, and mentorship to
revolutionize agriculture through digital transformation in Eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bundelkhand
Preferred Criteria
- Operational for at least 1 year as of 31st March 2024 AND
- Revenue between INR 10 lakh to INR 100 crores AND
- Customer base of at least 1,000 farmers AND
- Registered as a Private Limited Company
Channel 1:
Innovators from Israel
revolutionize agriculture through digital transformation in Eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bundelkhand
Preferred Criteria
- Operational for at least 1 year as of 31st March 2024 AND
- Revenue between USD 1 million to USD 100 million AND
- Customer base of at least 1,000 farmers AND
- Registered as a Private Limited Company, LLC or Public Limited Company
Channel 2:
Champions (mentors for Innovators) from India
Interested in joining the World Bank in Shaping the Future of Agriculture
Preferred Criteria
- Startup founder of at least an INR 100 crore revenue company in the thematic areas; OR
- Executives from VC/PE funds invested in a company with a revenue of INR 100 crore+; OR
- Angel investors/family offices invested in a company with a revenue of INR 1 crore+; OR
- Executives of AgTech/Agribusiness with a revenue of INR 100 crore+; OR
- Experts/representatives of Research Organizations or Ecosystem Support Organizations or International Development Organizations (with focus on digital agriculture in India); OR
- Industry leaders in building, scaling, or investing in digital technology ventures, preferably with global exposure
Channel 2:
Champions (mentors for Innovators) from Israel
Interested in joining the World Bank in Shaping the Future of Agriculture
Preferred Criteria
- Startup founder of at least a USD 10 million revenue company in the thematic areas; OR
- Executives from VC/PE funds invested in a company with a revenue of USD 10 million+; OR
- Angel investors/family offices invested in a company with a revenue of USD 10 million+; OR
- Executives of AgTech/Agribusiness with a revenue of USD 10 million+; OR
- Experts/representatives of Research Organizations or Ecosystem Support Organizations or International Development Organizations (with focus on digital agriculture in India); OR
- Industry leaders in building, scaling, or investing in digital technology ventures, preferably with global exposure
Benefits – What’s in it for you?
Channel 1:
Innovators
(Indian And Israeli Startups)
What’s in it for Indian startups?
- Access to cutting-edge technology/solutions
- Access to new markets and partners
- Structured matchmaking support, creating cross-border collaboration
- Potential for piloting and scaling up solutions through the UP-AGREES project
What’s in it for Israeli startups?
- Access to new markets and partners
- Structured matchmaking support, creating cross-border collaboration
- Potential for piloting and scaling up solutions through the UP-AGREES project
Channel 2:
Champions
(Mentors For Innovators)
What’s in it for Indian and Israeli mentors?
Shape scalable innovations
Deepen sectoral impact
Access high quality startups
Showcase your thought leadership
Pay it forward
Timeline
FAQs FOR UP-AGTECH
What is UP-AGREES?
What is the purpose of the Forum?
This forum will serve as a matchmaking platform for Indian and Israeli startups, fostering mutual collaboration over an intensive two month mentorship period.
From Where AgTech Startups can apply?
AgTech Startups can apply through the official website: upagtechforum.com.
Is the forum limited to only Startups?
No, the forum is open to any enterprise working in developing disruptive agriculture technologies and is interested in developing solutions for Bundelkhand and Eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Can multiple AgTech organisations apply as a consortium?
Yes, however the lead partner needs to be mentioned in the application form.
When AgTech Startups can apply?
AgTech Startups can apply from 21st May till 6th June, 2025.
On what parameters will the applicants be evaluated?
Who are Innovators and Champions?
The champions shall act as mentors to the innovators and join the World Bank in shaping the future of agriculture in Uttar Pradesh. Please refer to eligibility criteria available here.
What is the deadline for the application?
Please refer to the Timeline available on the ‘Application Information’.
Who do we contact in case of any queries about the application process?
About the forum
The Farms & Frontiers: Uttar Pradesh (India)–Israel AgTech Innovators Forum presents a unique opportunity to foster collaboration between start-ups from India and Israel, with a focus on digital agricultural innovations targeted at the Eastern Uttar Pradesh (UP) and Bundelkhand regions.
Partners
The forum offers participation opportunities through 2 channels:
Channel 1:
Innovators
Channel 2:
Champions
Startups with solutions in the identified thematic areas will have the opportunity to build cross-border partnerships and receive mentorship to refine their innovations for the specific needs of Eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bundelkhand regions. Selected solutions may also have the chance to pilot and scale their models in real-world settings through the UP-AGREES project.
Individuals or startups from India and Israel who are experts in their domain and are willing to guide innovators in co-developing relevant and scalable solutions through workshops and one-on-one sessions are invited to join the initiative. The experts will provide hands-on support to help AgTech innovators transform their ideas into viable, impactful solutions.
#AgTech Startups Interested in Developing Solutions Will Be Called ‘Innovators’ for the Purpose of the Forum.
Why agtech solution providers should invest in Eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bundelkhand?
Uttar Pradesh contributes ~8% to India’s GDP and has ~17% of the population.
Kalanamak rice (GI-tagged) produced 15,000 MT in 2021, with only ~7% exported.
The state is adopting AgTech, AI, and digital tools to boost yields and farmer incomes.
Ranks 1st in potato (32.35%), 2nd in vegetables (14.11%), and 3rd in fruits (10.03%) production.
Eastern UP and Bundelkhand face low productivity, small landholdings, poor soil, and erratic rainfall.
The state is boosting exports, attracting private investment, and promoting good agricultural practices.
Why partnership with Israeli AgTech ecosystem can transform agriculture in UP?
Addressing similar agricultural challenges in Eastern UP and Bundelkhand
such as sparse arable land, water shortages, climate change and erratic rainfall
Delivering sustainable, future-ready solutions
as Israeli AgTech companies are leading the way in sparse land (only 20% arable land), and semi-arid climatic conditions
Offering advanced technology entrepreneurial ecosystem,
with a unique blend of cutting-edge innovation and environmental stewardship that is redefining global agriculture
Thematic Areas we want innovators to enable
END-TO-END DIGITAL TRACEABILITY (FOR KALANAMAK VARIETY OF RICE)
To boost value and quality of Geographical Indication-tagged crops, especially for Kalanamak variety of rice
- RFID, QR codes, blockchain, and IoT-based system
- E-commerce market platforms utilizing traceability layers
- Technology-enabled farmer payment transparency
- Geo-tagged input tracking for compliance
Precise, real-time, hyperlocal insights for farmers
To guide input use and improve the quality and yield of the different crops in Eastern/Bundelkhand regions of UP
- Hyperlocal crop, soil and climate advisory
- Semi/Autonomous Machinery
- Variable Rate Technology (VRT) or Innovative input delivery
- IoT sensors and control systems
- Farm Management Platforms
Reliable, farm-level data on soil organic carbon
To monitor soil health, design regenerative practices, and participate in carbon markets
- Hyperlocal soil organic carbon (SOC) monitoring systems
- Satellite imagery-based assessment of SOC and vegetation health
- Data Management and Carbon Credit Platforms
Join Us to Showcase Your Best Innovative Solutions and Leverage the Expertise of Distinguished Stalwarts in the Field!
Thematic Areas we want innovators to enable
END-TO-END DIGITAL TRACEABILITY (FOR KALANAMAK VARIETY OF RICE)
To boost value and quality of Geographical Indication-tagged crops, especially for Kalanamak variety of rice
- RFID, QR codes, blockchain, and IoT-based system
- E-commerce market platforms utilizing traceability layers
- Technology-enabled farmer payment transparency
- Geo-tagged input tracking for compliance
Precise, real-time, hyperlocal insights for farmers
To guide input use and improve the quality and yield of the different crops in Eastern/Bundelkhand regions of UP
- Hyperlocal crop, soil and climate advisory
- Semi/Autonomous Machinery
- Variable Rate Technology (VRT) or Innovative input delivery
- IoT sensors and control systems
- Farm Management Platforms
Reliable, farm-level data on soil organic carbon
To monitor soil health, design regenerative practices, and participate in carbon markets
- Hyperlocal soil organic carbon (SOC) monitoring systems
- Satellite imagery-based assessment of SOC and vegetation health
- Data Management and Carbon Credit Platforms
Join Us to Showcase Your Best Innovative Solutions and Leverage the Expertise of Distinguished Stalwarts in the Field!
We are looking for
Channel 1:
Innovators from India
Seeking opportunities for piloting, scaling, partnerships, and mentorship to
revolutionize agriculture through digital transformation in Eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bundelkhand
- Operational for at least 1 year as of 31st March 2024 AND
- Revenue between INR 10 lakh to INR 100 crores AND
- Customer base of at least 1,000 farmers AND
- Registered as a Private Limited Company AND
- Raised a round of series A funding
Channel 1:
Innovators from Israel
Seeking opportunities for piloting, scaling, partnerships, and mentorship to
revolutionize agriculture through digital transformation in Eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bundelkhand
- Operational for at least 1 year as of 31st March 2024 AND
- Revenue between USD 1 million to USD 100 million AND
- Customer base of at least 1,000 farmers AND
- Registered as a Private Limited Company, LLC or Public Limited Company AND
- Raised a round of series A funding
Channel 2:
Champions (mentors for Innovators) from India
Interested in joining the World Bank in Shaping the Future of Agriculture
- Startup founder of at least an INR 100 crore revenue company in the thematic areas; OR
- Executives from VC/PE funds invested in a company with a revenue of INR 100 crore+; OR
- Angel investors/family offices invested in a company with a revenue of INR 1 crore+; OR
- Executives of AgTech/Agribusiness with a revenue of INR 100 crore+; OR
- Experts/representatives of Research Organizations or Ecosystem Support Organizations or International Development Organizations (with focus on digital agriculture in India); OR
- Industry leaders in building, scaling, or investing in digital technology ventures, preferably with global exposure
Channel 2:
Champions (mentors for Innovators) from Israel
Interested in joining the World Bank in Shaping the Future of Agriculture
- Startup founder of at least a USD 10 million revenue company in the thematic areas; OR
- Executives from VC/PE funds invested in a company with a revenue of USD 10 million+; OR
- Angel investors/family offices invested in a company with a revenue of USD 10 million+; OR
- Executives of AgTech/Agribusiness with a revenue of USD 10 million+; OR
- Experts/representatives of Research Organizations or Ecosystem Support Organizations or International Development Organizations (with focus on digital agriculture in India); OR
- Industry leaders in building, scaling, or investing in digital technology ventures, preferably with global exposure
We are looking for
Channel 1:
Innovators from India
Preferred Criteria
- Operational for at least 1 year as of 31st March 2024 AND
- Revenue between INR 10 lakh to INR 100 crores AND
- Customer base of at least 1,000 farmers AND
- Registered as a Private Limited Company
Channel 1:
Innovators from Israel
Preferred Criteria
- Operational for at least 1 year as of 31st March 2024 AND
- Revenue between USD 1 million to USD 100 million AND
- Customer base of at least 1,000 farmers AND
- Registered as a Private Limited Company, LLC or Public Limited Company
Channel 2:
Champions (mentors for Innovators) from India
Interested in joining the World Bank in Shaping the Future of Agriculture
Preferred Criteria
- Startup founder of at least a USD 10 million revenue company in the thematic areas; OR
- Executives from VC/PE funds invested in a company with a revenue of USD 10 million+; OR
- Angel investors/family offices invested in a company with a revenue of USD 10 million+; OR
- Executives of AgTech/Agribusiness with a revenue of USD 10 million+; OR
- Experts/representatives of Research Organizations or Ecosystem Support Organizations or International Development Organizations (with focus on digital agriculture in India); OR
- Industry leaders in building, scaling, or investing in digital technology ventures, preferably with global exposure
Channel 2:
Champions (mentors for Innovators) from Israel
Interested in joining the World Bank in Shaping the Future of Agriculture
Preferred Criteria
- Startup founder of at least a USD 10 million revenue company in the thematic areas; OR
- Executives from VC/PE funds invested in a company with a revenue of USD 10 million+; OR
- Angel investors/family offices invested in a company with a revenue of USD 10 million+; OR
- Executives of AgTech/Agribusiness with a revenue of USD 10 million+; OR
- Experts/representatives of Research Organizations or Ecosystem Support Organizations or International Development Organizations (with focus on digital agriculture in India); OR
- Industry leaders in building, scaling, or investing in digital technology ventures, preferably with global exposure
Benefits – What’s in it for you?
Channel 1:
Innovators
(Indian And Israeli Startups)
What’s in it for Indian startups?
- Access to cutting-edge technology/solutions
- Access to new markets and partners
- Structured matchmaking support, creating cross-border collaboration
- Potential for piloting and scaling up solutions through the UP-AGREES project
What’s in it for Israeli startups?
- Access to new markets and partners
- Structured matchmaking support, creating cross-border collaboration
- Potential for piloting and scaling up solutions through the UP-AGREES project
Channel 2:
Champions
(Mentors For Innovators)
What’s in it for Indian and Israeli mentors?
Shape scalable
innovations
Deepen sectoral
impact
Access high
quality startups
Showcase your
thought leadership
Pay it forward
Benefits – What’s in it for you?
Channel 1:
Innovators
(Indian And Israeli Startups)
What’s in it for Indian startups?
- Access to cutting-edge technology/solutions
- Access to new markets and partners
- Structured matchmaking support, creating cross-border collaboration
- Potential for piloting and scaling up solutions through the UP-AGREES project
What’s in it for Israeli startups?
- Access to new markets and partners
- Structured matchmaking support, creating cross-border collaboration
- Potential for piloting and scaling up solutions through the UP-AGREES project
Channel 2:
Champions
(Mentors For Innovators)
What’s in it for Indian and Israeli mentors?
Shape scalable innovations
Deepen sectoral impact
Access high quality startups
Showcase your thought leadership
Pay it forward
Timeline
FAQs FOR UP-AGTECH
What is UP-AGREES?
What is the purpose of the Forum?
This forum will serve as a matchmaking platform for Indian and Israeli startups, fostering mutual collaboration over an intensive two month mentorship period.
From Where AgTech Startups can apply?
AgTech Startups can apply through the official website: upagtechforum.com.
Is the forum limited to only Startups?
No, the forum is open to any enterprise working in developing disruptive agriculture technologies and is interested in developing solutions for Bundelkhand and Eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Can multiple AgTech organisations apply as a consortium?
Yes, however the lead partner needs to be mentioned in the application form.
When AgTech Startups can apply?
AgTech Startups can apply from 21st May till 6th June, 2025.
On what parameters will the applicants be evaluated?
The applicants will be evaluated based on the eligibility criteria available here.
Who are Innovators and Champions?
The innovator is an AgTech startup that is seeking opportunities for piloting, scaling, partnerships, and mentorships to deploy their solutions in Bundelkhand and Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Please refer to eligibility criteria available here.
The champions shall act as mentors to the innovators and join the World Bank in shaping the future of agriculture in Uttar Pradesh. Please refer to eligibility criteria available here.
What is the deadline for the application?
Please refer to the Timeline available on the ‘Application Information’.
Who do we contact in case of any queries about the application process?
Please reach out with any queries to upagtechforum@gmail.com