Wadhwani Innovation Network Grant: Health & Bio 2026
By Manipal – Government of Karnataka Bioincubator (MAHE)
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Quick Answer
Non-dilutive grant support up to ₹1 crore for 2 years, for advanced health and bio technologies at TRL 4 or above, from Wadhwani Innovation Network at IIT Bombay.
- Funding amount
- Up to ₹1Cr
- Funding type
- Grant
- Application deadline
- 2d — 23 Oct 2026
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
About this grant
The Wadhwani Innovation Network (WIN) program, an initiative of the Wadhwani Innovation Centre (WIC) at IIT Bombay, in collaboration with the Manipal – Government of Karnataka Bioincubator, seeks to accelerate advanced health and bio technologies. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between promising research and market-ready solutions by providing significant non-dilutive grant support. The program specifically targets innovators, startups, and research teams that have developed technologies at a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4 or above, ensuring a focus on solutions beyond the initial ideation phase. By emphasizing rigorous justification of TRL based on the National Technology Readiness Assessment Framework (NTRAF), WIN ensures that selected projects possess a strong foundation for further development and commercialization. The collaboration with the Manipal Bioincubator as an execution hub underscores the program's commitment to providing not just financial aid, but also an ecosystem conducive to the growth and successful deployment of innovative health solutions in India. This call for Expression of Interest (EoI) invites proposals that demonstrate strong scientific merit, clear commercialisation potential, and innovative aspects that offer significant advantages over existing solutions in terms of cost, performance, ease of use, or accessibility. The ultimate goal is to foster groundbreaking innovation in the healthcare sector, bringing impactful technologies from laboratory to market and addressing critical needs within the industry.
Eligibility
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Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Sign up to view.
Grant providers
Benefits & Funding
- Amount
- Up to ₹1Cr
- Fund type
- Grant
- Equity
- Equity-free
- Repayment
- Non-repayable
What You Get
The program offers up to ₹1 crore in non-dilutive grant support per project, distributed over a period of up to two years. This substantial funding is designed to enable selected innovators, startups, and research teams to further develop their advanced health and bio technologies, bringing them closer to market readiness. Beyond the financial assistance, awardees are expected to benefit from the intellectual ecosystem and potential incubation support provided through the Wadhwani Innovation Network, leveraging the expertise of Wadhwani Innovation Centre at IIT Bombay and the Manipal – Government of Karnataka Bioincubator. The network's support can include access to labs, mentorship, and strategic connections, fostering an environment for robust technological advancement and commercialization, ultimately accelerating their journey to market.
- Duration
- 24 months
- Bootstrap friendly
- Yes
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
The selection process for the Wadhwani Innovation Network grant involves a multi-stage evaluation, beginning with a rigorous assessment of the Expressions of Interest (EoIs). Applications will be screened based on the completeness and quality of the project proposal, the clarity and justification of the stated Technology Readiness Level (TRL 4 and above) as per the National Technology Readiness Assessment Framework, and the potential for commercialization. The innovative aspect of the technology and its unique selling proposition compared to existing solutions will also be key evaluation criteria. For non-startup applicants, the strength of the industry partner or the described implementation pathways will be critical. Shortlisted candidates may proceed to a more detailed full-proposal stage, followed by presentations or interviews with a selection committee comprising experts from Wadhwani Innovation Centre, IIT Bombay, and the Manipal – Government of Karnataka Bioincubator, and potentially external industry and academic experts. The final selection will be based on the overall merit, feasibility, and potential impact of the proposed technology.
Application Process
- 1
Submit EoI Form
Applicants complete and submit the Expression of Interest form online, including project details and TRL justification.
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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
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
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 4
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Program templates & documents
Files the program publishes for applicants — download these and apply in the prescribed format.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum funding available?
The program offers non-dilutive grant support of up to ₹1 crore per project.
What is the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) requirement?
Applicants must have technologies at TRL 4 or above. This TRL must be justified using the National Technology Readiness Assessment Framework (NTRAF) and supported by evidence.
Who is eligible to apply?
Innovators, startups, research teams, and faculty members are eligible. Non-startup applicants need an industry partner or must describe potential adopters and implementation pathways.
What are the key focus areas for this grant?
The program focuses on advanced health and bio technologies, including Healthcare, MedTech, Bioengineering, Biosciences, and Medicine.
Is there an equity component involved with the funding?
No, the program provides non-dilutive grant support, meaning no equity stake is taken from the recipient startup or project.
What is the duration of the grant support?
The grant support is provided for a duration of up to 2 years.
Sources
Data on this page is compiled from official program and provider references.
