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Department of Biotechnology, Government of India

D.E.S.I.G.N. for BioE3 Challenge

Pays India's top biotech concept entries ₹1 lakh each month, with grants to build them.

Twelve monthly cycles run from November 2025, each opening with about three weeks for team formation and proposal submission, followed by multi-tier expert evaluation and a results announcement before the next cycle begins. Individuals or teams of up to five, including students, retirees, remote workers and startups, submit a written concept, design rationale and impact case through an online form

The challenge invites concept-level proposals, with no lab work required, across six BioE3 focus areas: bio-based chemicals and enzymes, functional foods and smart proteins, precision biotherapeutics, climate-resilient agriculture, carbon capture and utilization, and futuristic marine and space research. Entries are judged on originality, feasibility, safety and societal relevance to the BioE3 vision — biotechnology for the economy, environment and employment — rather than on working prototypes.

CycleiHow often this grant runs - e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.No fixed schedule
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.20 Sept 2026
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.-
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.-
Award typeiThe form of funding - grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Prize
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.-
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.-

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