Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Allocates ₹6.5 Crore for SC/ST-led Agri Tech Startups in State Funding Boost

To promote and empower entrepreneurs from Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has approved a total of ₹6.5 crore in equity investment under the Tamil Nadu SC/ST Startup Fund for five startups. These pioneering ventures, spanning electronics manufacturing, agri tech, healthcare, and the food sector, are poised to catalyze economic growth and foster innovation across the state.

The startups, based in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Perambalur, and Kanyakumari districts, are set to receive not only financial support but also mentorship and post-investment assistance from the Tamil Nadu Startup and Innovation Mission (StartupTN), further propelling their journey toward achieving sustainable business goals.

To date, the state government has disbursed ₹34.6 crore to 26 startups, showcasing a commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem that thrives on diversity. This injection of funds is anticipated to enhance the credibility of these startups, facilitating client acquisition and paving the way for market expansion.

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Among the notable beneficiaries, Ecopmin Technologies Pvt Ltd stands out with a funding of ₹3 crore. Specializing in manufacturing and trading consumables for the electronic manufacturing service (EMS) industry, the company aims to establish a cutting-edge production line for Board Handling Systems (BHS) dedicated to Surface Mount Technology (SMT) lines.

Adhiban Farms, securing ₹2.2 crore in funding, is venturing into the poultry business with a unique approach. Utilizing biotechnology-based feed enhancement, the firm produces functionally enriched eggs with Omega-3. The investment will support Adhiban Farms in scaling operations by expanding its free-range vertical and introducing two new verticals – cage-free farming and training.

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Nanjil Nadu Kani Tribal Women Creations, a Kanyakumari-based startup operated by tribal women, has received ₹25 lakh. This enterprise focuses on selling value-added products derived from forest produce. The funding injection is set to propel the startup toward scaling up its business operations.

COEO Wellness (Valar Life) and Mannvasanai Traditional Food have also secured funding, with ₹60 lakh and ₹45 lakh respectively, contributing to the state's vision of fostering innovation in healthcare and traditional food sectors.

The state government's commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship among SC/ST communities, particularly in the agri tech sector, is a step towards creating a more inclusive and vibrant startup ecosystem in Tamil Nadu. The strategic infusion of funds and support mechanisms is poised to propel these startups toward success and contribute significantly to the economic growth of the region.

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