The Axis Bank Foundation (ABF) supported initiative in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, implemented by Agri Entrepreneur Growth Foundation (AEGF), continues to strengthen the agri-entrepreneurship ecosystem by enabling rural youth to become self-reliant, digitally connected, and climate-smart business leaders. Through its focus on incubation, digital inclusion, and farmer engagement, the project is transforming agricultural livelihoods across the region. 

Key Activities and Engagements 

• Farmer Outreach & Training: 
  During September, the team conducted 137 farmer meetings, reaching over 2,640 farmers across Ahmednagar. These sessions emphasized improved agronomic practices, pest management, and market readiness. Additionally, 734 farmers participated in Kharif demonstration exposure visits, gaining hands-on insights into sustainable crop management techniques. 

• Agri-Entrepreneur Incubation: 
  The month marked a strong entrepreneurial momentum with 55 new Agri-Entrepreneurs (AEs) incubated across diverse archetypes — from agri-input supply and farm mechanization to output marketing and digital banking. To strengthen rural service delivery, 17 new AE shops were inaugurated, enhancing last-mile access to inputs, services, and agri-advisory. 

• Financial Inclusion & Digital Enablement: 
  In partnership with Fino, Spice Money, and Airtel Payment Bank, the team facilitated 27 new digital banking IDs, driving financial access for rural communities. Additionally, 10 shopkeeper insurance policies were rolled out to enhance social and business security for AEs and micro-entrepreneurs. 

• Capacity Building & Business Development: 
  A series of business development sessions enabled 96 AEs to prepare structured business plans, improving their operational planning and growth readiness. These efforts were complemented by AE campaigning events with stakeholders and training workshops on entrepreneurship and leadership. 

• Rabi Season Preparedness: 
  As part of the upcoming cropping cycle, 18 Rabi demonstration plots were finalized to showcase innovative cultivation practices, seed management, and integrated nutrient approaches. 

Key Highlights  

• 2,640 farmers reached through meetings and demonstrations. 

• 55 new AEs incubated across multiple business domains. 

• 17 AE shops inaugurated, expanding agri-service coverage. 

• 27 digital banking IDs created and 10 insurance policies issued. 

• 96 business plans prepared, boosting AE sustainability. 

• 18 Rabi demo plots planned for upcoming season. 

Archetype Expansion 

Archetype	No. of AEs	Monthly Transactions
Agri-Input	19	₹17,86,001
Farm Mechanization	14	₹3,42,962
Digital Banking	20	₹2,43,972