BIRAC BIG: How to Secure Up to ₹50 Lakhs for Your Biotech Startup
Learn about the BIRAC Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG). Explore eligibility, funding amounts up to ₹50 Lakhs, and the step-by-step application process for bio
The Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG) is the flagship program of BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council), designed to bridge the gap between discovery and invention. Aimed at high-risk, high-impact innovations, BIG provides individual entrepreneurs and early-stage startups with the financial fuel needed to establish 'Proof of Concept' for their biotech ideas.
What is this scheme?
The BIG scheme is a pan-India program that provides grant-in-aid to biotech innovators. It is specifically designed to support projects that have a strong social impact or commercial potential but lack the initial capital to move from the laboratory to a prototype stage. The scheme is managed through various BIG Partners across India who provide mentoring and technical support.
Who is eligible?
- Individual entrepreneurs with a graduate degree in any discipline (B.Tech, B.Sc, MBBS, etc.)
- Incubatees residing in a recognized business incubator
- Startups incorporated under the Companies Act with a valid DPIIT recognition
- The startup must be less than 5 years old at the time of application
- The main applicant (Individual) must be an Indian citizen
- Startups must have a majority (at least 51%) Indian shareholding
How much money?
Grant-in-aid up to ₹50 Lakhs for a maximum period of 18 months.
Documents needed
- Identity and Address Proof (Aadhaar, Passport)
- Company Incorporation Certificate (for Startups)
- DPIIT Recognition Certificate
- Detailed Project Proposal with milestones
- Business Plan and Commercialization Strategy
- Letter of Support from a recognized Incubator
- IP ownership documents or technology transfer agreements
How to apply (step by step)
- Register as an 'Individual' or 'Company' on the BIRAC online portal.
- Select a BIG Partner for mentoring and application processing.
- Submit the detailed online application form including project milestones and budget.
- Undergo preliminary screening by the BIG Partner.
- Shortlisted candidates present their proposal before the Technical Evaluation Panel (TEP).
- The final selection is made by the Expert Selection Committee (ESC).
- Sign the agreement and receive the first installment of the grant.
Important dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| First Annual Call Opening | Typically opens in January |
| Second Annual Call Opening | Typically opens in July |
| Application Window Duration | 45 days from the date of advertisement |
Conclusion
The BIRAC BIG scheme is a game-changer for biotech innovators in India, providing the necessary 'ignition' to turn scientific ideas into viable commercial products. If you have a disruptive idea in healthcare, agriculture, or industrial biotechnology, BIG offers the financial and mentoring backbone to transform your vision into reality.
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