BIRAC-Research, Development & Innovation Fund
Offered By - Government Of India
About the Program
The BIRAC–RDI Fund is a large-scale deeptech funding initiative under the Government of India’s ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development & Innovation (RDI) scheme, designed to support high-impact, long-gestation R&D projects. It operates as a co-investment financing program rather than a typical grant, providing patient capital through equity, debt, or hybrid structures.
Who is it for:
This program is targeted at deeptech startups, SMEs, and industry players working on advanced technologies that are already beyond early-stage ideation (TRL 4+). It specifically supports innovators building solutions that can transition from lab-scale research to real-world industrial deployment.
What do you get:
Selected applicants receive large-scale funding support (₹5 Cr to ₹200 Cr range) along with structured financial backing to support R&D, scale-up, and commercialization. The program also enables milestone-based funding disbursement, technical validation, and long-term capital support suited for high-risk, capital-intensive innovations.
Why it matters:
This is one of India’s largest deeptech funding mechanisms, specifically designed to bridge the “lab-to-industry” gap — a major bottleneck where many innovations fail. Unlike typical startup grants, it enables startups to access serious capital for industrial-scale deployment, making it highly relevant for founders building in biotech, advanced manufacturing, and other capital-intensive sectors.
Offerings –
- Large-scale funding – 5 Cr to ₹200 Cr range
- Co-investment model (up to 50% project cost support)
- Equity, debt, and long-term financing options
- Support for R&D, scale-up, and commercialization
- Milestone-based funding disbursement
- Access to government-backed innovation ecosystem
- Structured evaluation, monitoring & validation support
Who Can Apply / Eligibility
– Startups / SMEs / companies working on deeptech innovations
– Projects must be TRL 4 or above (validated technology stage)
– Must demonstrate high-impact, scalable innovation
– Requires co-investment / own capital contribution
– Focus on indigenous technology & national impact
Selection Process
- Application submission through the official platform
- Initial screening based on eligibility and concept strength
- Evaluation based on innovation, scalability, and impact
- Shortlisting of selected applicants
- Final selection by the organizing body
The exact selection process may vary depending on program guidelines.
How to Apply
- Visit the official application page of the program provided below
- Review eligibility criteria and submission requirements
- Prepare necessary documents and project details
- Submit your application before the deadline
- Await further communication from the organizers
Source & Verification
All information is compiled from publicly available sources. Refer to the links below for most accurate & updated details. Disclaimer
- Source 1: biracrdif.org
- Source 2: www.birac.nic.in
This information is provided for general awareness and does not constitute an endorsement by StartupGrantsHub.com. Exercise due diligence before submitting any personal or sensitive information.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Startups / SMEs / companies working on deeptech innovations
– Projects must be TRL 4 or above (validated technology stage)
– Must demonstrate high-impact, scalable innovation
– Requires co-investment / own capital contribution
– Focus on indigenous technology & national impact