Research Associate – Rural Enterprise Research & Advisory
Location: Delhi NCR (Travel across India required)
Employment Type: Full-time
Experience: 0–3 Years
Salary: Negotiable based on qualifications and experience
About the Organization
We are a research and advisory organization working to strengthen Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), rural enterprises, agri-businesses, cooperatives, and entrepreneurship ecosystems across India.
Our work integrates research, field studies, business strategy, financial planning, policy analysis, government schemes, and capacity building to create practical and scalable solutions for rural institutions.
We are building a knowledge-driven organization that combines research with implementation to improve the sustainability and growth of rural enterprises.
Position Overview
We are looking for a highly motivated Research Associate to support research, field studies, business advisory, and knowledge development related to rural enterprises and FPOs.
The role requires individuals who enjoy asking questions, analysing problems, interacting with diverse stakeholders, travelling to rural areas, and converting field insights into practical recommendations.
This is an excellent opportunity for candidates interested in building a career in research, rural development, agriculture, consulting, public policy, development finance, or impact investing.
Key ResponsibilitiesResearch & Knowledge Development
- Conduct primary and secondary research on FPOs, rural enterprises, cooperatives, agri-value chains, and entrepreneurship.
- Review Government policies, schemes, notifications, research papers, and sector reports.
- Prepare literature reviews, policy briefs, concept notes, and technical reports.
- Develop case studies, best practices, and knowledge products.
Field Research
- Conduct field visits across different states.
- Interview farmers, CEOs, Board Members, entrepreneurs, government officials, financial institutions, NGOs, and ecosystem partners.
- Conduct Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), and structured surveys.
- Prepare field visit reports and document observations.
Business & Financial Research
- Support preparation of:
- Business Plans
- Detailed Project Reports (DPRs)
- Financial Models
- Market Assessments
- Value Chain Studies
- Feasibility Studies
- Credit & Investment Proposals
Data Analysis & Documentation
- Analyse qualitative and quantitative datasets.
- Maintain project databases and research documentation.
- Prepare presentations and management reports.
- Assist in developing dashboards and analytical tools.
Innovation & Knowledge Systems
Support the development of:
- Rural Enterprise Assessment Frameworks
- FPO Performance Assessment Tools
- Business Diagnostic Frameworks
- AI-assisted Research Systems
- Knowledge Repositories
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Educational Qualification
Candidates from the following disciplines are encouraged to apply:
Preferred
- MBA/PGDM – Rural Management
- Agriculture
- Agri-Business Management
- Agricultural Economics
- Rural Development
- Agricultural Extension
- Horticulture
- Forestry
- Dairy Technology
- Veterinary Sciences
- Fisheries
Also Eligible
- Economics
- Development Studies
- Public Policy
- Commerce
- Finance
- Business Administration
- Statistics
- Sociology
- Geography
Fresh graduates with strong analytical aptitude are encouraged to apply.
Desired Skills
- Research methodology
- Report writing
- Analytical thinking
- MS Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
- Data interpretation
- Interviewing and documentation
- Ability to work independently
- Willingness to travel extensively
Additional Advantage
- Power BI
- SQL
- GIS
- SPSS
- Financial Modelling
- Survey Design
- AI tools for research
What We Are Looking For
We value aptitude, curiosity, and integrity over years of experience.
The ideal candidate should:
- Enjoy solving complex problems.
- Be comfortable travelling and working in rural areas.
- Have a strong learning mindset.
- Demonstrate attention to detail.
- Be able to communicate with farmers as well as senior professionals.
- Be willing to take ownership and work in a dynamic environment.
What You Will Gain
This role offers hands-on exposure to:
- Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)
- Rural Enterprises
- Agri-business Ecosystems
- Government Schemes
- Rural Finance
- Business Strategy
- Financial Modelling
- Development Consulting
- Policy Research
- Capacity Building
You will work directly with experienced professionals and contribute to projects with national-level relevance.
Selection Process
Shortlisted candidates will undergo:
- Resume Screening
- Research Assignment
- Technical Interview
- Final Interaction
Mandatory Application Requirement
Along with your resume, please submit a response (maximum 300 words) to the following:
"Identify one major challenge faced by Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) or rural enterprises in India. Explain why it exists and suggest one practical solution."
Applications without this response may not be considered.
Pay: ₹240,000.00 - ₹360,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
