Proparco, a prominent subsidiary of the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) Group, has made a significant move in the agritech sector by investing $5 million in Omnivore’s third fund, the Omnivore Agritech & Climate Sustainability Fund. This investment signals a robust commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability in agriculture, particularly in India and Southeast Asia, as these regions grapple with the dual challenges of climate change and food security.
Omnivore has carved a niche for itself by supporting visionary founders who are dedicated to advancing agrifood resilience and driving rural transformation. The firm’s latest investments include a diverse array of companies such as Fibmold, Optimo, Sid’s Farm, and Scimplify, each of which plays a vital role in enhancing agricultural practices and promoting sustainable solutions. With this investment, Proparco marks its first venture capital commitment in India, having been operational in the country since 2009. This move aligns with Proparco’s broader mission to strengthen private sector capabilities across developing nations, focusing on reducing inequality and adapting to climate change.
Thierry Mathoum, the Ambassador of France to India, emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating, “The Omnivore project underscores the comprehensive and extensive nature of the Indo-French partnership. This innovative project will allow our countries to develop our joint investment in agritech.” He highlighted that this collaboration is an important milestone leading up to the India-France year of innovation in 2026, showcasing a mutual commitment to advancing technology and sustainability.
Diane Jegam, South-Asia Director of Proparco, expressed her enthusiasm regarding the partnership, noting that it aligns perfectly with Proparco’s strategic objectives of fostering a sustainable economy, protecting the planet, and reducing inequalities. “By committing to climate-friendly investments that empower small-scale farmers to strengthen their resilience, Omnivore is pivotal in supporting sustainable development in India,” she stated. This commitment is particularly important as small-scale farmers often face the brunt of climate change impacts, and supporting their resilience is crucial for the overall stability of the agricultural sector.
Jinesh Shah, Managing Partner of Omnivore, reflected on the importance of this partnership, stating, “We are honoured to partner with Proparco as they begin supporting Indian venture capital funds. Omnivore empowers entrepreneurs revolutionising agriculture, rural economies, and climate solutions.” Shah emphasized that Proparco’s backing will help scale these innovations globally, fostering resilient and equitable communities worldwide. This global perspective is vital as the challenges of climate change and food insecurity transcend borders, necessitating collaborative solutions.
The AFD group, through its various initiatives, contributes significantly to France’s development and international solidarity policy. With involvement in 3,600 projects across more than 160 countries, the AFD is dedicated to creating a robust social and environmental impact, particularly in the French overseas territories. Proparco’s investment in Omnivore is a testament to this commitment, as it seeks to harness the potential of agritech to address pressing global challenges.
As the agritech landscape continues to evolve, investments like Proparco’s in Omnivore not only provide the necessary capital for innovation but also signal a growing recognition of the importance of sustainable practices in agriculture. The partnership stands to benefit not just the immediate stakeholders but also the broader community, as it aims to create a more resilient and sustainable agricultural ecosystem in India and beyond.
