KisanKonnect, Backed by Shilpa Shetty, Secures Rs 31 Crore Funding Led by Climate-Tech Fund GFC

About the startup

KisanKonnect is a Pune-based agritech startup that was founded in 2020 by Vivek and Nidhi Nirmal. The startup sources fresh vegetables and fruits directly from its network of 5,000 farmers and delivers them to customers in Mumbai and Pune through its own D2C app and farm-stores. It also has a line of agri-produce and hand-made preservative free snacks under the brands Village Staples and Mom’s Kitchen.

About the funding

The startup has raised Rs 31 crore (~$ 3.7 million) in pre-Series A funding from climate-focused fund Green Frontier Capital (GFC) and crop protection company Dhanuka Agritech Limited. VC Grid—a community-led investment platform—participated in the round along with a few family offices. The startup had previously raised an undisclosed amount from Bollywood actress and entrepreneur Shilpa Shetty in May 2023.

About the plans

According to the official statement, the startup aims to utilize the funds towards increasing its activities in climate-smart agriculture interventions with its 5,000 farmers, expand its offerings outside Mumbai and Pune, and strengthen its fresh-produce supply chain technology. The startup claims that its technology-enabled temperature-controlled and fully-traceable supply chain is unique in the country as it helps reduce wastage and carbon emissions in the agri supply-chain. The startup also works with farmers to encourage sustainable cultivation of crops free from pesticides and chemicals.

About the investors

Green Frontier Capital (GFC) is a climate technology-focused fund that invests in startups that are solving environmental challenges through innovation. GFC’s managing partner and founder Sandiip Bhammer said, “Kisankonnect is revolutionising 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.” Dhanuka Agritech Limited is a crop protection company that offers a wide range of products for various crops. VC Grid is a community-led investment platform that connects startups with investors, mentors, and experts.