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BIRAC Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG)

BIG Grant (Biotechnology Ignition Grant)

Funds early-stage Indian biotechnology ventures through proof-of-concept support and startup development stages.

The Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG Grant) is BIRAC's flagship early-stage biotech grant, providing up to INR 50 Lakhs (₹5,000,000) as non-equity, non-dilutive grant-in-aid for 18-month proof-of-concept projects. BIRAC — the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council — is a not-for-profit public-sector enterprise established by the Government of India's Department of Biotechnology in 201…

Indian biotech start-ups and innovators at the pre-commercial proof-of-concept stage. All biotech sectors including healthcare/medical devices, agritech, food and nutrition, synthetic biology, and other biotechnology areas.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Multiple per year
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.—
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.16 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.—
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.₹1.5B

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Last verified: 22 Jul 2026Source: birac.nic.in