D.E.S.I.G.N. for BioE3 Challenge | Startup Grants India

About this Opportunity

The D.E.S.I.G.N. for BioE3 Challenge is a government initiative under India's BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) policy framework, driven by the Department of Biotechnology, BIRAC, and BRIC-ILS. It aims to inspire innovative, sustainable, and scalable biotechnological solutions from young students and researchers across India, with the theme "Empowering Youth to Solve Critical Issues of their TIMES." The challenge runs for 12 months with rolling monthly submissions open for 20 days each month, from November 2025 to October 2026.

Round 1 awards a cash appreciation grant of INR 1 lakh to the top 10 concept proposal winners every month — up to 120 winners over 12 months. Winners receive mentorship from DBT-BIRAC, access to 15 iBRIC+ institutions and 95 Bio-NEST incubators nationwide, and visibility on DBT, BIRAC, and MyGov digital platforms. Round 2 offers Round 1 winners a follow-on RDI grant of up to INR 25 lakhs disbursed in two tranches of INR 15 lakhs and INR 10 lakhs based on milestone completion, supporting up to 100 projects nationwide.

Eligibility

Must be an Indian national with a valid Aadhaar number. Individual or team applications (up to 5 members) are permitted. Institutional affiliation is not required for Round 1. For Round 2, affiliation to an institution, bio-incubator, or DSIR-recognized startup is mandatory. PhD scholars, researchers, scientists, and startup founders or employees are encouraged to apply. No entry fee.

Application Process

Register on the BRIC-ILS D.E.S.I.G.N. Portal at https://www.ils.res.in/bioe3challenge/. Submit a 1500-word concept proposal covering Concept Summary, Design Logic, BioE3 Linkage, Feasibility and Safety, Sustainability and Impact, and Novelty. Applications open on the 1st of each month and close on the 20th. Round 1 winners have 3 months to submit a detailed proposal to BIRAC for Round 2 funding. Plagiarism will result in disqualification.