Shilpa Shetty-backed agritech startup Kisankonnect raises Rs 31Cr from investors; Know about the startup

Shilpa Shetty Kundra-backed agritech startup Kisankonnect has raised Rs 31 crore in a pre-series A funding round led by Green Frontier Capital (GFC), a climate technology-focused fund.

Other notable investors in the round included Dhanuka Agritech, VC Grid, and various family offices.

Focused on providing safer produce

Vivek Nirmal, Founder and CEO, said, “Our extensive work on the farm front also benefits our consumers, as they get a safer produce to consume. Our tech-enabled temperature controlled and fully traceable supply chain is unique in the country. This helps the sorted and graded fresh produce of our farmers, to reach our consumers in Mumbai and Pune in the shortest possible time"

Nirmal said the wastages are reduced significantly, which ensures fair prices for farmers and consumers while helping reduce carbon emissions in the Agri supply chain.

Expanding operations 

Kisankonnect, which currently serves over 1 lakh customers in Mumbai and Pune, plans to use the funds to expand its operations, including enhancing climate-smart agriculture interventions with its network of 5,000 farmers, improving fresh-produce supply chain technology, and establishing new farm stores alongside the existing ones in these cities.

Nidhi Nirmal, Co-founder and Business Head highlighted the evolution of their customer service, transitioning from a mobile app to farm stores for fresher produce delivery.

Nidhi Nirmal, Co-founder and Business Head, said, “Earlier, we reached our consumers through our Mobile App. Now, our farm stores service our customers with even fresher produce.” 

What does KisanKonnect do?

Founded in 2020, KisanKonnect, which is known for sourcing directly from farmers and delivering fresh vegetables and fruits, also produces curated agri-produce and hand-made snacks under its 'Village Staples' and 'Mom’s Kitchen' brands. 

According to the startup, these products are made by rural women in a central kitchen. In May last year, Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty Kundra invested an undisclosed amount in KisanKonnect. 

The bigger picture in agritech

The investment in Kisankonnect is part of a larger trend in the agri-tech sector. Despite a recent contraction in investments, the sector has seen significant growth, with Kisankonnect's innovative approach to agriculture aligning with the broader movement towards sustainable and efficient farming practices. 

“Kisankonnect is revolutionizing the field with its dedication to soil improvement, reduced chemical usage, and elevated farm productivity – values that align seamlessly with our mission to champion climate tech innovations. The company’s commitment ensures that fresh produce arrives on your plate at lightning speed,” said Sandiip Bhammer, Managing Partner and Founder, GFC.

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