Call for Grant Applications –
Precision Biotherapeutics-Cell and Gene Therapy for Fostering High Performance Biomanufacturing under BioE3 Policy
About Organisation
The Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) is a not-for-profit, Section 8, Schedule B, Public Sector Enterprise established by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India. It serves as an interface agency dedicated to strengthening and empowering the emerging biotechnology sector in India. BIRAC plays a pivotal role in supporting strategic research and innovation that addresses critical national needs in product development.
As an industry-academia interface, BIRAC provides access to risk capital, technology transfer, intellectual property (IP) management, and various handholding schemes that enhance innovation and global competitiveness in biotech firms. Over the past eight years, BIRAC has introduced numerous schemes, networks, and platforms aimed at bridging the gap between industry and academia, thereby facilitating the development of high-quality, affordable, and cutting-edge biotech solutions. The organization has also forged partnerships with leading national and international stakeholders to promote innovation and scientific advancement.
By implementing impact-driven initiatives, BIRAC continues to contribute to India’s position as a global leader in biotechnology, ensuring that novel research reaches practical applications for societal benefit.
About the Grant
The Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT) Grant is part of the “Precision Biotherapeutics” vertical under India’s BioE3 Policy, focusing on advancing high-performance biomanufacturing. The CGT sector is a rapidly evolving field that offers transformative potential in treating complex and previously incurable diseases. Given the increasing number of CGT-based therapies under development and approval worldwide, BIRAC and DBT aim to create a robust innovation ecosystem for this field in India.
The grant invites proposals under two categories:
- Discovery and Application-Oriented Integrated Network Research (TRL 3-5) – Supporting proof-of-concept studies and early-stage validation.
- Bridging the Gaps for Scale-Up (TRL 5-7) – Enabling early- and late-stage development of indigenous and affordable CGT candidates.
This initiative seeks to enhance clinical outcomes, improve safety standards, and promote translational applications through novel approaches and technologies. BIRAC encourages researchers, biotech companies, and academic institutions to participate and contribute to building a sustainable CGT pipeline in India.
Who can Apply?
The grant is open to a broad range of applicants, including:
- Companies and Startups – Any entity established under the Companies Act, 2013 is eligible to apply.
- Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) – Firms incorporated under the Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008 can participate.
- Academic and Research Institutions – Recognized institutions, universities, societies, trusts, NGOs, and foundations can apply if they hold Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (SIRO) recognition.
This wide eligibility ensures that key stakeholders from the biotech industry, academia, and research sectors can contribute to the development of cutting-edge CGT solutions.
How to Apply?
All proposals must be submitted online only via the BIRAC portal. Hard copies will not be accepted. Applicants should ensure they provide complete and accurate information as per the grant guidelines before submission.
Application Deadline
The last date for submission of proposals is 15th March 2025 (midnight).
Last Date to Apply
15th March 2025 (midnight). Late submissions will not be considered.
Grant Amount
The funding amount varies based on the project scope, category, and level of research. Selected proposals will receive financial and technical support from BIRAC and DBT.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
