Who can apply to the D.E.S.I.G.N. for BioE3 Challenge?

Any Indian national with a valid Aadhaar number can apply — individuals or teams of up to 5 members. PhD scholars, researchers, scientists, and startup founders or employees are all encouraged. Institutional affiliation is not required for Round 1.

How much funding can I receive?

Round 1 winners receive a cash appreciation grant of INR 1 lakh. Round 1 winners who qualify for Round 2 can receive an RDI grant of up to INR 25 lakhs, disbursed in two tranches of INR 15 lakhs and INR 10 lakhs based on milestone completion.

Is the grant equity-free?

Yes. Both Round 1 and Round 2 grants are non-dilutive and fully equity-free. There is also no entry fee to apply.

How does the monthly submission cycle work?

Applications open on the 1st of each month and close on the 20th, from November 2025 to October 2026 — a 12-month rolling window. Up to 10 concept proposals are selected per month, for up to 120 Round 1 winners over the year.

What must my Round 1 submission include?

A 1500-word concept proposal covering six elements: Concept Summary, Design Logic, BioE3 Linkage, Feasibility and Safety, Sustainability and Impact, and Novelty. Submissions with plagiarism will be disqualified.

D.E.S.I.G.N. for BioE3 Challenge – Up to ₹25 Lakhs

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.

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

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

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