About this business scheme
The Biotechnology Ignition Grant Scheme provides up to Rs. 50 lakhs to individual entrepreneurs and startups in the biotech sector. Applications are accepted online, and there is no last date for submission.
The Biotechnology Ignition Grant Scheme (BIG) is designed to support innovative ideas in the biotech sector. It is managed by the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
This scheme provides financial support and mentorship to individual entrepreneurs and startups. It aims to help them develop their ideas from the initial stage to a proof of concept.
By nurturing entrepreneurship, the scheme encourages the creation of commercially viable biotech products and technologies. This support is crucial for addressing unmet needs in various sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and clean energy.
Benefits at a glance
| Scheme name | Biotechnology Ignition Grant Scheme (BIG) |
|---|---|
| Launched by | Ministry Of Science And Technology |
| Department | Department Of Biotechnology |
| Benefit | The Biotechnology Ignition Grant Scheme provides up to Rs. |
| Benefit type | Composite (cash plus goods or services) |
| Category | Business |
| Level / State | Central · All India |
| Official portal | birac.nic.in (link at the end of this page) |
Key facts
| Scheme type | Central Sector Scheme |
|---|---|
| Implementing agency | Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council |
| Scheme for | Individual |
| Application mode | Online |
| Last date | Ongoing (no last date notified) |
| DBT (direct bank transfer) | No |
| Project duration | Up to 18 months |
| Funding type | Grant-in-aid |
Who can apply (quick check)
- 👤All genders
- 🎂Age 0 to 80 years
- 📝Online
Quick check from official data. Full conditions are in the Eligibility section.
What you receive
- Grant of up to Rs. 50 lakhs for 18 months
Funding is provided as a grant-in-aid, and it covers various project-related expenses. The support is available for a period of 18 months, with continuous mentoring from BIRAC and its partners.
Who qualifies
- Must be an Indian citizen
- Age should not exceed 80 years
- Must be incubated in a recognized incubator
- Project Leader must have completed basic undergraduate training
- If employed, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) is required
Who is not eligible
- Individuals who are promoter shareholders of a biotech company
- Proposals for basic or exploratory research
- Projects involving clinical trials or late-stage validation
Papers to keep ready
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Registration walkthrough
- Check for the national call for applications on the BIRAC website.
- Register as a user on the BIRAC website.
- Fill out and submit the online application.
- Provide all required documents for verification.
Applicants can check their application status by logging into the BIRAC portal. They may also contact the helpline for assistance.
Real-life examples: are you eligible?
A quick way to gauge your eligibility: find the profile nearest to yours.
Every case differs. Confirm your eligibility on the official portal before applying.
- Submitting incorrect or incomplete information can lead to rejection.
- Not providing a No Objection Certificate when employed.
- Failing to submit the application before the deadline.
- Applying without being incubated in a recognized incubator.
- Not having a clear project plan or objectives.
Frequently asked questions
What is the purpose of the BIG scheme?
It supports innovative biotech ideas from individuals and startups.
How much funding can I receive?
You can receive up to Rs. 50 lakhs.
Who can apply for this scheme?
Only Indian citizens with innovative biotech ideas can apply.
Can I apply if I am a student?
Yes, but you need a No Objection Certificate from your institution.
Is there a deadline for applications?
No, applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
What types of projects are not supported?
Basic research projects and those involving clinical trials are not supported.
How long does the project funding last?
The funding lasts for 18 months.
What is the selection process like?
It involves multiple steps including eligibility checks and expert reviews.
Submit your application yourself on the official portal; it costs nothing. Treat anyone demanding money to "get you approved" as a scam.
- Guidelines birac.nic.in (PDF)
- Official Website birac.nic.in
- FAQs birac.nic.in (PDF)
- Scheme Details www.birac.nic.in
- Scheme Amendment birac.nic.in (PDF)
tsmpb.in is not affiliated with any government department. Apply only on the official portal and never pay anyone for an application.
First draft prepared with editorial AI tools; every fact verified against the official notification and rewritten by our team.
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