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UN agency IFAD looks to invest in Indian agri-startups

money.rediff.com   The International Fund for Agricultural Development  

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is targeting its first direct investment in Indian agricultural startups. It plans to finalise three to four deals over the next year.This initiative represents a transition for the agency, which is shifting its financing model from traditional donor-funded grants toward private sector capital. To support these efforts, IFAD has signed a letter of intent with NABARD to explore potential co-investment opportunities.The UN agency focuses on fostering climate and economic resilience within rural communities, specifically targeting 110 aspirational districts and economically disadvantaged states across India. The agency aims to assist small farmers by connecting them to broader markets across the agricultural value chain, including storage, processing, and marketing infrastructure, while also promoting the adoption of climate-resilient crops such as millets and sorghum.IFAD currently maintains an India portfolio valued at approximately USD 1.2 Billion across five projects, with direct financing accounting for USD 350 million.