D.E.S.I.G.N. for BioE3 Challenge 2026
Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India
📌 About the Event
The D.E.S.I.G.N. for BioE3 Challenge 2026 is a national-level biotechnology innovation challenge organised under the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India, to encourage innovative ideas addressing critical challenges in the economy, environment and employment. Aligned with India’s BioE3 policy, the challenge invites participants to develop original, scientifically grounded and sustainable biotechnology concepts with potential real-world applications.
ℹ️ Event Details
- Mode of Conduct: Online
- Organiser: Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India
- Challenge Type: Biotechnology innovation and concept proposal competition
- Team Size: Individual participation or teams of up to 5 members
- Submission Format: Concept proposal of up to 1,500 words, submitted through the official portal
- Registration Fee: Free
📅 Important Dates
- Challenge Launch: 1 November 2025
- October 2026 Application Window: 1–20 October 2026
- Final Application Cycle: October 2026
- Expected Final Cycle Results: 20 November 2026
🎯 Eligibility & Rules
- Open to Indian nationals under Category 2, including college and university students.
- Individuals or teams of up to 5 members can participate.
- Submit an original concept proposal of up to 1,500 words.
- Each applicant may submit one proposal per month.
- Proposals must align with the BioE3 vision and demonstrate scientific merit, feasibility and potential impact.
- A valid Aadhaar number is required, as specified in the official guidelines.
🏆 Benefits for Participants
- Top 10 selected entries in each monthly cycle receive an appreciation grant of ₹1,00,000 per winning entry.
- Winners may receive mentorship from DBT–BIRAC experts.
- Selected concepts may receive an opportunity to progress towards implementation.
- Eligible winners may be encouraged to submit a full proposal for RDI funding of up to ₹25 lakh, subject to the applicable process and selection.
- Selected ideas may be showcased on official government and institutional platforms.
- Participants may gain exposure to biotechnology innovation and incubation networks.