Larisa Walburn (Chief Technology Officer)

As someone who’s advised startups in rural India for years, I can tell you a digital farming advisory business is a goldmine if done right. With BharatNet wiring up villages and smartphone penetration soaring, farmers are ready for tech. Here’s my take on starting this in 2025.Research First Survey farmers through local NGOs or online platforms like SurveyMonkey. Most want real-time advice on seeds or irrigation—yields are stuck 20% below potential due to info gaps. Target a specific crop or region, like drip irrigation tips for Rajasthan’s arid farms.Tech and Tools Build an app using free tools like Google’s Firebase for backend and TensorFlow for AI-driven crop predictions. Integrate weather APIs from IMD. Start lean—₹3 lakhs can get you a prototype. Host on AWS to keep costs under ₹10k/month.Business Setup Form an LLP via the MCA portal for under ₹10k. Get GST registration if revenue crosses ₹20 lakhs. For funds, explore SIDBI’s microfinance loans or pitch to agtech incubators like a-IDEA.Go-to-Market Offer freemium: free pest alerts, paid yield forecasts at ₹200/month. Promote via Kisan Sabhas or Instagram Reels in regional languages. Aim for 10% user growth monthly.It’s not easy—farmers trust people over apps—but persistence wins. Omnivore’s blog has great insights on agtech trends. Share your plans below!

As a techie who’s rigged up smart pots for my rooftop, I’m stoked about kitchen garden automation in India. With sustainability on everyone’s mind and urban gardening up 30% since 2021, this biz is primed for 2025.Market Research Focus on Tier-1 city apartments—Reddit’s r/IndianGardening shows watering and light are big pain points. Hydroponics and vertical farms are trending hard.Product and Setup - Hardware: Soil moisture sensors + Wi-Fi relays, sourced for ₹2k/unit. - Software: Use Blynk for app controls, integrate IMD weather APIs. - Legal: Shop Act license, RoHS compliance for eco-standards. Go-to-Market Price kits at ₹4k, add-ons like nutrient packs for ₹500. Sell via Amazon, market through TikTok demos. Partner with local nurseries for credibility.Growth Plan Franchise installation services or export to Singapore’s urban farms. Aim for ₹10 lakh revenue in year one.It’s hands-on but fun—clients love fresh basil with zero effort. AllThatGrows has solid tips for starters. What’s your gardening hack?