DBT D.E.S.I.G.N. for BioE3 Challenge
By Department of Biotechnology (DBT)
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Quick Answer
Empowering Indian youth to solve critical national issues through bio-based innovations, offering ₹1 lakh prize money per cycle and a grant opportunity for implementation.
- Funding amount
- Up to ₹1 Lakhs
- Funding type
- Competition
- Application deadline
- 1d — 21 Oct 2026
- Eligible stage
- Idea
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
About this competition
The D.E.S.I.G.N. for BioE3 Challenge, spearheaded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India, is a nationwide initiative aimed at fostering innovation among Indian youth. This program is designed to identify and nurture transformative ideas in biotechnology that address critical national issues, contributing to the vision of 'Viksit Bharat' through BioE3 – Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment. The challenge emphasizes the development of safe-by-default biological innovations across six pivotal themes: Bio-based Chemicals & Enzymes, Functional Foods & Smart Proteins, Precision Biotherapeutics, Climate Resilient Agriculture, Carbon Capture & Utilization, and Futuristic Marine & Space Research. Through a series of monthly challenge cycles, the program seeks to catalyze youth-driven change, provide national visibility and recognition for innovative solutions, and enhance essential skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and design thinking. It offers a structured pathway from initial ideation to potential implementation, connecting participants with a network of leading scientists, innovators, mentors, and policymakers. This final cycle of the challenge is a culmination of efforts to empower the next generation of innovators to tackle complex challenges with sustainable and impactful biotechnology solutions.
Eligibility
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Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Organizers
The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) is a central government department under the Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India. It was set up in February 1986. It supports biotechnology through fellowships, research calls and an innovation challenge, and its…
Learn morePrizes & Awards
- Amount
- Up to ₹1 Lakhs
What You Get
- ₹1 lakh to each of the top 10 entries in every monthly cycle
- A grant opportunity for implementation
- Visibility and recognition in the scientific and innovation ecosystem
- Networking with scientists, innovators, mentors and policymakers
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
Entries go through a multi-tier evaluation by experts using comprehensive criteria, starting 21 October 2026. Winners are announced in November 2026. The top 10 entries of each cycle receive ₹1 lakh each.
Application Process
- 1
Register
Register on the challenge site and form a team of up to 5, or apply alone.
You - 2
- 3
- 4
How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 2
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can participate?
All Indian Nationals, as individuals or in teams of up to 5 members.
What do I have to submit?
An idea of 1500 words on the proposal template, under one of the six BioE3 themes.
What do winners receive?
The top 10 entries in each monthly cycle receive ₹1 lakh each. The challenge also lists a grant opportunity for implementation.
When does registration close?
Registration for the final cycle closes on 21 October 2026, and results are announced in November 2026.
What are the BioE3 themes?
Bio-based Chemicals & Enzymes; Functional Foods & Smart Proteins; Precision Biotherapeutics; Climate Resilient Agriculture; Carbon Capture & Utilization; and Futuristic Marine & Space Research.
