K-SAP Startup Advancement Programme 2026
By Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP)
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Quick Answer
An integrated mentorship and seed funding program for life sciences startups in Karnataka, offering up to ₹1 crore and access to specialized services and networks.
About this grant
The Karnataka Startup Advancement Programme (K-SAP), spearheaded by C-CAMP with the support of the Department of IT, BT, and S&T, Government of Karnataka, is a pivotal initiative designed to bolster the state's vibrant biotechnology ecosystem. Recognising Karnataka's stature as India's leading biotech hub, hosting over 60% of the nation's biotech industries, K-SAP is strategically aligned with the state's commitment to fostering innovation. This integrated, structured, and comprehensive deep-dive mentorship program is specifically tailored for early-stage life sciences startups. Its core mission is to provide crucial mentorship, specialized knowledge, and extensive network access, enabling these nascent ventures to accelerate their journey from initial concept to market readiness. K-SAP aims to meaningfully engage with and closely support life sciences startups from Karnataka, significantly increasing their probability of long-term success. By facilitating faster traction in achieving key milestones, the program contributes directly to the sustainable growth and longevity of startups within the dynamic entrepreneurial landscape.
Eligibility
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Grant providers
The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms, or C-CAMP, is a Bengaluru life sciences hub conceptualised by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, in 2009. It sits on the NCBS-TIFR campus in Bengaluru as part of the Bangalore Life Sciences Cluster (BLiSC),…
Learn moreBenefits & Funding
- Amount
- Up to ₹1 Cr
- Fund type
- Grant
- Equity
- Equity-free
- Repayment
- Non-repayable
What You Get
The K-SAP program offers significant financial support through lateral entry seed fund opportunities of up to ₹1 crore (₹10,000,000) from C-CAMP. This non-dilutive funding is designed to help early-stage life sciences startups achieve critical milestones and accelerate their market entry. Beyond capital, participants receive comprehensive support, including deep-dive mentorship from industry experts and scientific advisors, strategic knowledge transfer sessions, and invaluable access to C-CAMP's specialized services and state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure at highly subsidized rates. The program also facilitates crucial networking opportunities through its alumni community and provides pathways to participate in international partner forums, broadening startups' global reach. A highlight of the program is the Demo Day, offering direct exposure to a curated network of investors and potential for follow-on investment opportunities.
- Disbursement
- Milestone Based
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
The selection process for the Karnataka Startup Advancement Programme Cohort II is rigorous and designed to identify high-potential life sciences startups. Applications are first screened by a panel of C-CAMP experts and relevant government representatives, evaluating alignment with program objectives, innovation, scientific merit, market potential, and team capabilities. Shortlisted startups may be invited for an initial interview or a more detailed presentation to a selection committee, which includes domain specialists, investors, and C-CAMP leadership. The final cohort is selected based on a comprehensive assessment of their technology, business model viability, scalability, and the potential impact they can create within the life sciences sector. The decision aims to onboard startups that can most effectively leverage K-SAP's mentorship and funding resources.
Application Process
- 1
Apply Online
Submit your application and supporting documents via the official portal.
You - 2
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How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Draft your application
Answer the form inside the grant tracker — AI drafts each response using your past answers, so you're not starting from a blank page.
- 2
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 3
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Karnataka Startup Advancement Programme (K-SAP)?
A: K-SAP is an integrated, structured, and comprehensive deep-dive mentorship program introduced by C-CAMP with the support of the Department of IT, BT, and S&T, Government of Karnataka. It aims to propel early-stage life sciences startups from Karnataka towards sustainable growth and market success through mentorship, funding, and networking.
Q: Who is eligible to apply for K-SAP Cohort II?
A: The program is open to life sciences startups based in Karnataka. It targets early-stage ventures that are looking for mentorship, funding, and access to specialized resources to accelerate their idea-to-market trajectory.
Q: What kind of funding is available through K-SAP?
A: K-SAP offers lateral entry seed fund opportunities of up to ₹1 crore (₹10,000,000) from C-CAMP. This funding is provided as a grant to help startups achieve key milestones.
Q: What other benefits does K-SAP offer beyond funding?
A: Beyond funding, the program provides deep-dive mentorship, access to specialized C-CAMP services at subsidized rates, opportunities to participate in international partner forums, networking through an alumni community, and a Demo Day for investment opportunities.
Q: What is the application deadline for K-SAP Cohort II?
A: The application deadline for K-SAP Cohort II is September 25, 2026.
Q: How can I apply for the K-SAP program?
A: You can apply by visiting the official application portal at https://ccamp.res.in/ksap/user and submitting your application before the deadline. For any queries, you can write to advancement@ccamp.res.in.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
