Scheme Overview & Objective
The Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG) is India's flagship early-stage funding program, launched by BIRAC under the Department of Biotechnology (DBT). Recognized as Asia's gold standard for biotech funding, BIG offers up to ₹50 Lakh in non-dilutive grant-in-aid to individual innovators and early-stage startups. The grant supports proof-of-concept development across biotechnology domains, including medical devices, diagnostics, drug discovery, and clean bio-energy.
Administered through 8 BIG Partner institutions, the program provides access to world-class lab infrastructure, mentorship, and patent assistance. With a 100% grant structure, BIG ensures innovators retain full ownership of their intellectual property while accelerating commercialization.
Eligibility Criteria & Scope
To qualify for BIG, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Individual Applicants: Indian citizens with a graduate degree in science/technology (e.g., scientists, researchers, medical doctors, engineers, students).
- Startups: DPIIT-recognized companies incorporated as Private Limited in India, under 5 years old, with 51% Indian equity ownership.
- Project Requirements: The proposed project must be novel, indigenous, and achievable within 18 months. It must align with biotechnology, healthcare, agriculture, industrial biotech, or clean bio-energy sectors.
- Partner Institution: Applicants must apply through one of the 8 designated BIG Partner institutions.
Key Financial & Growth Benefits
BIG offers transformative benefits for biotech innovators:
- Funding: Up to ₹50 Lakh in non-dilutive grant-in-aid, distributed across 4 milestone-based deliverables.
- Infrastructure: Access to multimillion-dollar bio-instrumentation, cleanrooms, and clinical testing facilities.
- Mentorship: Guidance from biotech entrepreneurs, patent attorneys, and venture capitalists.
- IP Retention: Innovators retain 100% ownership of developed intellectual property.
- Follow-on Funding: Successful grantees gain direct access to BIRAC SEED and LEAP funds, unlocking up to ₹1 Crore in additional funding.
Application Procedure & Documents
Follow this step-by-step process to apply for BIG:
- Select a BIG Partner: Choose from the 8 designated institutions (e.g., C-CAMP, Venture Center) and secure an endorsement.
- Prepare the Proposal: Develop a comprehensive proposal including problem statement, scientific novelty, methodology, and 18-month milestone roadmap.
- Compile Documents: Gather required documents, including:
- Applicant KYC (Aadhaar, PAN)
- Company incorporation documents (if applicable)
- Educational certificates
- Itemized budget breakdown
- BIG Partner endorsement
- Submit Application: Apply through the designated BIG Partner institution, adhering to their submission guidelines.
For detailed guidance, visit the official scheme page at /schemes/biotechnology-ignition-grant-big.
Official FAQs
Q1: Can international applicants apply for BIG?
No, only Indian citizens and companies with 51% Indian equity ownership are eligible.
Q2: Is the grant repayable?
No, BIG is a 100% non-dilutive grant with no repayment or equity surrender required.
Q3: What is the project duration?
The grant supports projects for 18 months, aligned with proof-of-concept milestones.
Q4: Can I apply without a BIG Partner endorsement?
No, applications must be submitted through one of the 8 designated BIG Partner institutions.
