About this programme
The Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG) is BIRAC's flagship programme supporting young biotech startups at the ideation-to-early stage. It provides early-stage funding of up to INR 50 lakh as grant-in-aid for a period of up to 18 months to translate innovative ideas into proof of concept. The scheme fosters commercialization-potential ideas, validates and upscales proof of concept, and stimulates enterprise formation. It is run by Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC).
A grant is financial support you don’t repay — awarded against eligibility and, usually, agreed milestones or utilisation of funds. The amount and form of support that actually apply to you depend on the programme’s rules and how your application is assessed — they are not fixed for every applicant.
It is aimed at businesses in biotechnology and life-sciences startups. Like most government programmes, it has its own eligibility conditions, documentation and application window, and these terms are revised from time to time. Because of that, it is worth confirming the current eligibility, amount and deadline on the official programme page before you invest time in applying.
How it works
BIRAC disburses grant-in-aid funding through 8 BIG Partners across the country. These partners provide mentoring, monitoring, networking, and business development support to grantees (BIG Innovators). Funding supports translation of innovative ideas into proof of concept within the 18-month period.
Who can apply
Young startups and innovators with commercialization-potential biotech ideas seeking early-stage proof-of-concept funding.
How to apply
- Calls for proposals released on January 1st and July 1st each year
- Submit application within approximately 45 days of call announcement
- Submit proposal following BIG scheme guidelines and online submission proformas
- Applications assessed for innovative potential and commercialization viability
- Selected innovators notified and funding disbursed through BIG Partners
Documents you’ll typically need
- Online submission proformas per BIG scheme guidelines
- Project proposal with innovative idea details
- Registration details as per scheme requirements
The exact checklist depends on the programme and your specifics.
Frequently asked
How often can startups apply for BIG funding?
Calls for proposals are released twice annually on January 1st and July 1st, with approximately 45 days to submit applications each time.
What support do BIG Partners provide?
BIG Partners provide mentoring, progress monitoring, networking opportunities, and business development support to grantees.
What is the duration of BIG funding?
Funding support is provided for a period of up to 18 months to translate ideas into proof of concept.
Reviewed July 2026. Government programmes change — confirm current eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official programme page before you apply. CapEasy is a private consultancy and is not affiliated with any government authority.