Navork Innovations: Safeguarding Your Produce with Innovative Agri-Tech Solutions
We all love consuming fresh fruits and vegetables, but do we always get it fresh in the market. NO. Mushrooms, strawberries, bananas, cucumbers, tomatoes are a few fruits and vegetables that rots in 2-3 days. Now the question is how to increase the shelf life of these vegetables without spoiling its nutrients.
To address this issue, several startups have developed innovative technologies aimed at preserving the freshness of produce for extended periods. Among these pioneering companies is Navork Innovations, which has introduced advanced solutions to maintain the health and longevity of fruits and vegetables. These technologies help to slow down the natural deterioration process, ensuring that produce remains fresh and nutritious for longer. This not only reduces food waste but also provides consumers with healthier options. As a result, these advancements are transforming the way we store and consume fresh produce, contributing to a more sustainable and health-conscious lifestyle.
Abhishek Sahgal, founder of Navork Innovations Private Limited, always wanted to do something different and innovative in the agriculture sector. As a graduate from the prestigious IIT Delhi and KTH Sweden, he had the foundation to turn his dream into reality. With a burning passion for technology and full family support, Abhishek started his own company in Delhi called Navork Innovations.
Here are some insights into the inception of Navork Innovations from an interview with Abhishek Sahgal:
What inspired you to start this startup?
The desire to create an impact in society and my interest in Deep Technology inspired me to start Navork Innovations.
Did your family support this business idea? Are they involved in this business?
I am fortunate to have an extremely supportive family. They are involved in the business and provide guidance when needed.
What specific problem or need does your startup address?
We are working in the agri-tech space, specifically focusing on improving the quality and shelf life of mushrooms to reduce post-harvest loss and improve farmers’ income.
What is the unique solution or innovation offered by your startup?
Mushrooms have a very low shelf life, leading to a drastic loss of crop value by 70% within 24 hours post-harvest. We improve the shelf life and quality of mushrooms by 2.5 times using our patented plant-based extracts. This reduces post-harvest loss and ensures better income for mushroom farmers.
What challenges/problems did you face during the early stages? How did you solve them?
The challenges we faced in the early days were related to evaluating our idea in the market. We solved it by taking help from a few industry experts.
How do you plan to scale the operations or reach a wider audience?
We are working directly with mushroom farmers and using online media, like YouTube Shorts, to increase our reach. We also conduct webinars to solve problems for mushroom farmers and expand our outreach.
What partnerships or collaborations have you formed to enhance the company’s impact nationally and internationally?
We collaborate with mushroom consultants who help us reach farmers and build our brand. We are also connected with Villgro Foundation, IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, CCAMP, and leading Japanese companies to enhance our impact.
How do you incorporate sustainability or environmentally friendly practices?
Our product is derived from plants and is food-grade, making it an eco-friendly solution. By reducing post-harvest losses by 80% and fetching better prices for farmers, we create a positive environmental impact on various scales.
What milestones have you achieved since the inception?
We are currently valued at 3.2 million USD, hold 5 patents, and serve mushroom farmers in 5 different states. Leading institutions and companies like Syngenta Foundation, IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, PUSA-IARI, CCAMP, and several Japanese companies support our initiative.
What are your future plans and where do you see your startup in the next 5 years?
In 5 years, we aim to dominate the agri-input market for mushroom, banana, and pulse crops in India.
How did you manage the funds?
In order to manage funds, we have raised investment from SINE IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, Ccamp Bangalore, Villgro foundation, Pusa -IARI and Japanese angel investors.
Did you take support from any incubator?
Yes, we took support from IARI-PUSA Krishi and SINE IIT Bombay. IARI is supporting us in terms of lab facilities, office space and connection to mentors and expert in both technological and business domain.
Any message for our audience/readers?
If you wish to make an impact in agriculture, feel free to contact us and join our like-minded team.
