Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG) Scheme

The Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG) is a flagship program by the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) designed to support high-level innovation in the biotech sector. The scheme provides financial assistance to early-stage startups and individual entrepreneurs to bridge the gap between discovery and proof-of-concept. Funding is intended for functional validation of ideas, developing prototypes, and establishing commercial viability. The grant covers diverse sectors including healthcare, agriculture, industrial biotechnology, and drug delivery. Beyond financial aid, BIRAC provides mentorship through its network of BIG Partners, who assist in technical and business development. This competitive grant is awarded twice a year and aims to foster a culture of entrepreneurship by de-risking high-potential, technology-driven ideas in the life sciences domain.