Advanced Research Translation (ART) Program
A programme by BITS BioCyTiH Foundation (BITS BioCyTiH Foundation)
Funding for academic and government researchers to translate mature technology toward a commercial, market-ready product.
At a glance
| Best for | Faculty, scientists and researchers at academic institutions or government research establishments |
|---|---|
| Duration | 15 months, extendable on merit |
| Format | Hybrid |
| Cost | Takes equity |
| Grant support | For selected startups. A place in the programme does not by itself guarantee a grant. |
About Advanced Research Translation (ART) Program
ART supports researchers moving a mature technology from proof of concept toward a market-validated product, in healthcare, agriculture, environment or water. Five calls have run and all are currently closed.
What you get
- Funding to progress research from technology readiness level 5 upward
- Support to refine a prototype into a market-validated minimum viable product
- A pathway to an IP-driven spin-off or startup
Who can apply
- Applicants must hold a regular position at an academic institute or a government research establishment (examples given: ISRO, CSIR, ICAR, IARI, DRDO)
- The principal investigator must have lab access to carry out the project
- The technology must be at a mature, demonstrable stage with market feasibility; collaborative proposals (university and BITS faculty, university and industry, or research establishment and academia) are preferred
How selection works: Competitive, based on proposal quality, an online presentation and due diligence. New IP from a funded project is co-owned with BBF; if a startup spins out, BBF is offered equity, and BBF facilitates any technology transfer or licensing on agreed terms.
How to apply: Submit through the online form on the programme page, with supporting documents including proof of concept, a budget annexure, proof of employment and a declaration. For queries, contact info@biocytih.co.in.
Where to apply
Other BBF programmes
- Physical IncubationOn-campus incubation for Indian startups and MSMEs at BBF's Goa, Pilani and Hyderabad facilities.
- Virtual Incubation Program (VIP)Remote incubation for individual entrepreneurs and startups working in Bio-CPS, anywhere in India.
- Faculty Startup Incubation (FSI)Incubation for BITS Pilani faculty-led deep-tech startups, with reduced fees in the first year.
- BioCyTiH Advanced Startup Equity (BASE) ProgramSupport for startups and MSMEs whose product has just launched or is close to launch, covering short-term cash-flow needs.
- Faculty Innovation & Startup Traction (FIST)Support for faculty and scientists commercialising mature technology, combining grant funding with investment-style capital.
- Bio-CPS Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR)A six-month fellowship for early-stage Bio-CPS innovators, with a monthly stipend and a completion prize.
- Prof. G.N. Ramachandran Student Fellowship (UG-PG Fellowship)A rolling fellowship for final-year undergraduate and postgraduate students building Bio-CPS prototypes.
- Acceleration ProgramA fast-track programme to help startups move product development and market entry along faster.