About this programme
SEED Fund provides the first equity exposure of up to Rs 30 lakh in capital assistance to post-proof-of-concept biotech startups with new and meritorious ideas, technologies and innovations. It bridges the gap between promoter investment and Angel/Venture funding. The scheme is implemented through selected BioNEST incubators, which receive grant-in-aid of Rs 200 lakh per cycle to deploy into biotech startups. It is run by BIRAC.
This is equity funding — the investor (often through a fund) takes a stake in your company in exchange for capital, rather than lending or granting money. You give up some ownership; you don’t repay it like a loan. 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 post-poc biotech startup equity funding. 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.
Who can apply
Post-PoC biotech startups applying through one of BIRAC's designated SEED Fund Partner BioNEST incubators.
Documents you’ll typically need
- Business registration / incorporation certificate
- PAN (and GST registration, where applicable)
- Identity and address proof for the applicant / directors
- A short description of your business or project
The exact checklist depends on the programme and your specifics.
Frequently asked
What kind of support is this?
This is equity funding — the investor (often through a fund) takes a stake in your company in exchange for capital, rather than lending or granting money. You give up some ownership; you don’t repay it like a loan.
Who runs this programme?
BIRAC SEED Fund is offered by BIRAC. Eligibility and approval rest with them; the criteria and amounts are set by the programme.
Is there a deadline to apply?
Programmes like this can be rolling or time-bound. Confirm the current window on the official programme page before you apply.
How do I know if I’m eligible?
Read “Who can apply” above for the programme’s own criteria. If you’d like a quick read on your specific case, our free 2-minute eligibility check maps your stage, sector and revenue to what you can realistically claim.
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.