FundingRs. 10 lakh to Rs. 30 lakh
Equity-free Idea Logistics & Mobility
ClosesJun 15, 2026
Closed Grant Equity-free
NEST: Startup Training Program
by Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
Grant up to Rs. 5 Lakhs for startups in millet-based innovation, with training.
Check your readinessShare a few details and an IncorpX advisor will walk you through fit, documents and timelines for this scheme. Free, no obligation.
About this scheme
The NEST: Startup Training Program is an initiative by Nutrihub ICAR-IIMR, operating as a Technology Business Incubator in Hyderabad. This program is delivered under the PM-RKVY (RKVY-RAFTAAR) Scheme, a national program by the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (DA&FW) within the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India. The Ministry is focused on agricultural advancement, farmer prosperity, and national food security, supporting agri-entrepreneurship through schemes such as RKVY-RAFTAAR. Nutrihub ICAR-IIMR supports this mission by providing targeted assistance for innovative ventures, particularly those centered around millets, recognizing their potential for sustainable agriculture and nutrition. This program is designed to provide training and support to emerging startups aiming to innovate within the millet sector.
This program offers a non-repayable Grant-in-Aid, with funding available up to Rs. 5 Lakhs per eligible startup. The financial support is structured to assist startups in scaling and refining their millet-based innovations. Funds can be allocated towards operational expenses, the development of market entry strategies, product refinement based on market feedback, and other activities necessary for the growth and sustainability of the startup within the agri-food ecosystem. This aid helps address financial challenges for early-stage ventures.
In addition to financial aid, the NEST program offers non-monetary benefits. Participants gain access to training modules covering various facets of business development, technical knowledge relevant to millet processing and product innovation, and strategies for achieving market access. Furthermore, the program provides technical and business mentoring from industry experts and entrepreneurs. This support helps startups develop scalable business models, improve technical capabilities related to millet-based products, and enhance market readiness in the agricultural sector.
Who can apply
- Applications are invited from startups.
- Focus must be on millet-based innovations and startups.
Eligible entity types: Private Limited, LLP, Proprietorship, Individual Innovator
Benefits & funding
Headline support
Up to Rs. 5 lakh
- 5 Lakhs non-repayable Grant-in-Aid for operational expenses, market entry, and product refinement.
- Includes training modules on business development, technical knowledge for millet processing, product innovation, and market access strategies.
- Also provides technical and business mentoring from industry experts.
Official application
Ready to apply? Get the official link
Applications are submitted directly with Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, in your own name. Share a few details and we will point you to the official application portal and help you prepare a complete submission.
Here is the official application link
Apply in your own name with Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. Want a second pair of eyes before you submit? An IncorpX advisor can help you prepare.
Open the official applicationFrequently asked questions
How much funding does NEST: Startup Training Program provide?
NEST: Startup Training Program provides up to Rs. 5 lakh. The exact amount sanctioned depends on the proposal and the evaluation by the program authority.
Is NEST: Startup Training Program currently accepting applications?
Closed on May 15, 2026. Always confirm the current window with the program authority before preparing your application.
Does NEST: Startup Training Program take equity?
No. This program is listed as equity-free, which means the funding does not dilute your shareholding. Review the official terms for any debt or convertible components.
Important disclaimer
IncorpX is a private platform operated by a private company. It is not a government department, agency or official portal, and it is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of any government body or of any organisation, incubator, accelerator, investor or partner listed in this directory. All program names, logos and trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used for identification only.
This directory is compiled from publicly available official sources and is provided for general information only. It does not constitute legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Funding amounts, eligibility criteria, required documents, deadlines and availability are determined by each program authority and change with every cycle, so the details shown here may be incomplete or out of date. Always confirm the current terms on the official program source before you apply or take any decision.
IncorpX charges no fee for the information in this directory and does not collect, process, lodge or submit any application on your behalf. Applications are made by you, in your own name, directly with the respective program authority. IncorpX provides assistance only for application preparation and for related registrations such as company incorporation, DPIIT recognition, MSME (Udyam) and GST. Eligibility, approval, disbursement and selection rest solely with the respective program authority, and IncorpX makes no representation or guarantee as to any outcome.
Closing soon
View all FundingUp to Rs. 1 Cr
MVP / Prototype Biotech, Health & Pharma
ClosesJun 15, 2026
FundingSupport amount varies
MVP / Prototype
ClosesJun 15, 2026
Nebin Binoy 
