What kind of startups does dhaRti BioNEST support?

dhaRti BioNEST supports innovative startups in biotechnology, healthcare, MedTech, life sciences, agri-biotechnology, deep-tech, defence technology, Industry 5.0, clean energy, sustainability, and allied sectors.

What stage of startup is eligible for the program?

The program supports ventures across a broad range of maturity, from early-stage research and development (R&D) through to scaling.

What are the key benefits of joining the dhaRti BioNEST Incubation Centre?

Benefits include access to state-of-the-art labs and research facilities at IIT Dharwad, expert mentorship, clinical and regulatory support, investor networking, academic collaboration, and IP protection and commercialization support.

Is there a physical presence requirement at IIT Dharwad?

While the incubation facilities and labs are located at IIT Dharwad, the program details do not explicitly state a mandatory relocation requirement. It's advisable to clarify with the program office.

How can I apply for the dhaRti BioNEST Incubation program?

You can apply by filling out the Google Form provided on the official program site. For more information, you can also contact the dhaRti office via email at dharti.office@iitdh.ac.in or phone/WhatsApp.

dhaRti BioNEST Incubation Centre | Startup Grants India

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Provider

dhaRti Foundation, IIT Dharwad

Dharwad · Karnataka · India

dhaRti Foundation, IIT Dharwad dhaRti Foundation is the technology business incubator of IIT Dharwad, Karnataka. Established to foster deep-tech innovation and entrepreneurship, dhaRti supports startups emerging from IIT Dharwad's research ecosystem and the broader northern…

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Application Process

1
Submit Application
Complete and submit the Google Form application with details about your startup, solution, team, and business plan.
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Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.

1
Draft your application
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2
See the questions before you start
Download every question this programme's application form asks, so you can prepare your answers offline before opening the portal.
3
Line up your documents
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4
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
5
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.

The dhaRti BioNEST Incubation Centre at IIT Dharwad provides a vital platform for deep tech and life sciences startups. Established under the aegis of dhaRti Foundation, the Technology Business Incubator of IIT Dharwad, this center leverages the academic prowess and research facilities of a premier institution. It focuses on nurturing innovation in critical areas such as biotechnology, healthcare, clean energy, and sustainable agriculture, addressing significant challenges through entrepreneurial solutions. The program aims to transform early-stage R&D ideas into scalable commercial products by offering comprehensive support beyond just funding.

Formally inaugurated on October 14, 2025, the dhaRti BioNEST Incubation Centre is a newly-launched facility at IIT Dharwad, already running its early application cycles. It serves as a research and technology incubator, transforming innovative concepts into viable, scalable solutions with a strong emphasis on groundbreaking solutions in drug discovery, medical technologies, biotechnology, and healthcare, supporting ventures from their initial R&D phases all the way through to commercial scaling. The center’s establishment was supported by BIRAC and DBT, Government of India, and augmented by the MPLADS Scheme, marking it as a significant milestone for innovation in India.

The dhaRti BioNEST Incubation Centre offers a comprehensive support package designed to accelerate the growth of deep tech and life sciences startups. While specific seed funding amounts are not publicly disclosed, incubated startups gain direct access to crucial seed funding opportunities, alongside valuable connections to a network of investors, venture capitalists, and various government funding schemes, including those from BIRAC. Beyond capital, the program provides state-of-the-art laboratory and research infrastructure at IIT Dharwad, enabling intensive R&D, testing, and prototyping. Startups benefit from expert mentorship by IIT Dharwad faculty and seasoned industry leaders, specialized clinical and regulatory support to navigate complex approval processes, and robust assistance with IP protection and commercialization strategies. This holistic support stack ensures ventures are well-equipped to translate groundbreaking ideas into market-ready solutions.

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