Evaluating the Impact of Agri-startups on Technology Transfer: Insights from Farmers in Madurai and Dindigul Districts, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

Agri-startups are emerging as transformative agents in the agricultural sector, particularly in developing regions. This study explores the critical role of Agri-Startups in facilitating technology transfer to farmers in the Madurai and Dindigul districts of Tamil Nadu, India. Through a survey of 150 farmers associated with five prominent Agri-Startups, the research delves into the financial, technological, and marketing contributions of these startups, as well as farmers' perspectives on their impact. The findings reveal that Agri-Startups significantly attract investment for agricultural innovation (72.7% agreement), promote the adoption of new technologies (81.3% agreement), and identify market opportunities (72% agreement). Despite these advancements, farmers' overall agreement on the role of Agri-Startups in technology transfer is varied, with 44% expressing low agreement, 43.33% medium agreement, and only 12.7% showing high agreement. This disparity underscores the need for Agri-Startups to strengthen their engagement with farmers, particularly in areas of education, after-sales support, and demonstrating the practical benefits of their innovations. The study offers valuable insights into the Agri-Startup ecosystem in rural India, highlighting both its potential and the challenges that must be addressed to enhance the effectiveness of technology transfer in agriculture.