By The Hindu Bureau
Copyright thehindu
Having been approached by numerous prospective clients at the two-day Agri-Business Expo 2025 that concluded in Chennai on Sunday, start-ups promoted by the Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology (COXBIT), Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, are looking forward to transforming research outcomes into scalable ventures through access to funding, mentorship, development support, and market linkages.
Organised by the Department of Agriculture and Agri-Business at the Chennai Trade Centre, Nadambakkam, the Expo provided a strategic platform for the start-ups and entrepreneurs to connect with support networks and foster collaborations. According to the participants, the event has paved the way for directly marketing their products, alongside opening doors to new agri-business opportunities.
Farmers, farmer-producer organisations, food processing firms, exporters, natural farming enthusiasts, students and the general public were apprised about their innovations by the start-ups utilising COXBIT’s cabin space: M/s. Aviva Organics, M/s. Thennaivanam, M/s. Sakthi Fertilizer Company, M/s. Meridian Machine Works, M/s. Ziwwit Sustainable Technologies Pvt. Ltd., and M/s. CropTwin Agro Tech Pvt. Ltd.
Prospective clients evinced interest in future collaborations, TNAU Registrar and acting Vice-Chancellor R. Thamizh Vendan, and N. Senthil, Director, COXBIT, said.
The COXBIT also showcased its advanced facilities. Envisaging development of super active enzymes / biomolecules, biobased products, hormones for fruit ripening, plant growth stimulants and similar bio-inputs for the commercial benefit of farmers, the 1.06 lakh-sq.ft. structure encompassing knowledge and cabin space is under optimal utilisation of start-ups, student entrepreneurs and established companies for research and development activities.
