About this programme
SPARSH is BIRAC's social innovation initiative that nurtures 'Social Innovators' in the biotech domain to address societal needs such as maternal/child health, ageing, food and nutrition, waste-to-energy, agri-tech and environmental pollution. It funds nascent innovators through mini kick-start grants and monthly fellowships, alongside immersive clinical/rural experience, to help them build tangible prototypes and go on to raise follow-on funding. It is run by BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council).
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 biotech-driven social innovation. 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
Aspiring social innovators developing biotech-based products/services for community impact; supported through SPARSH Centres established at partner institutions.
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
- Recent financials or a simple project report
The exact checklist depends on the programme and your specifics.
Frequently asked
What kind of support is this?
A grant is financial support you don’t repay — awarded against eligibility and, usually, agreed milestones or utilisation of funds.
Who runs this programme?
SPARSH (Social Innovation Programme) is offered by BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council). 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.