Arya
Introduction
Efficient crop storage, improved access to finance and digital solutions play an important role in reducing waste and strengthening resilience in India’s agricultural sector. To support the development of such solutions, Swedfund invests USD 7.5 million in the Indian agri-tech company Arya.ag.
The agriculture sector employs around 40 percent of India’s population and plays an important role in food security and rural livelihoods. At the same time, many smallholder farmers face increasing challenges related to climate change, post-harvest losses and limited access to finance. Arya addresses these challenges by combining efficient storage, crop-backed financing and digital tools that help reduce waste, improve price realisation and strengthen farmers’ economic resilience.
Read more in our press release: Swedfund invests in resource efficiency and climate resilience for smallholder farmers in India
Facts
SDG in focus
No Poverty
End poverty in all its forms everywhere.
Reduced Inequalities
Reduce inequality within and among countries.
Climate Action
Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
Sector
Energy & Climate
Within the Energy & Climate sector, Swedfund only invests in renewable energy sources. The expansion of sustainable energy supplies requires a broad approach and innovative solutions.
Value creation
Impact
The investment contributes to strengthening the climate and economic resilience of vulnerable smallholder farmers across India by expanding access to technology‑enabled storage, finance, market networks and knowledge solutions. By reducing post‑harvest losses, improving price realisation and enabling more stable incomes, the investment supports reduced inequalities while also contributing to enhanced climate resilience.
Additionality
The investment contributes to financing the agribusiness sector in India. In addition to Swedfund’s equity contribution, it is expected to mobilise debt financing to support growth. The investment is value additional through active engagement on environmental, social and impact priorities, including strengthened client protection and targeted technical assistance on impact management, climate, gender and sustainable farming.
ESG
Requirements
In line with Swedfund’s Policy for Sustainable Development, the portfolio company is required to materially comply with, inter alia: (i) all internationally recognised human rights (ii) the EDFI harmonized exclusion list and EDFI Fossil Fuel Exclusion List, (iii) local environmental, health & safety and labour laws and regulations, (iv) applicable IFC Performance Standards, (v) the ILO’s Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work and the ILO’s Basic Terms and Conditions of Employment.
ESG Risk
E&S risk categorisation is Medium Risk (Direct B), based on environmental and social risks and impacts inherent in the company’s operations, as well as contextual country risks.
ESG Mitigation Measures
Swedfund supports the company in further developing its environmental and social management systems (ESMS), with a particular focus on client protection.
Applicable IFC Performance Standards
IFC Performance Standards (PS) 1–4 are applicable.
Whistleblowing channels and Grievance Mechanism
Swedfund’s whistleblowing services can be used by employees, contractors and others at Swedfund, and by the companies and funds in which Swedfund invests. The complaints mechanism can be used for all types of complaints concerning Swedfund and Swedfund’s portfolio companies, but not for complaints concerning individuals as a result of restrictions arising from data protection legislation. 🔹 Link in website footer.
Other investments within
Energy & Climate