Social Innovation Programme for Products Affordable & Relevant to Social Health (SPARSH)
Department of Biotechnology (DBT) / BIRAC
No change found in Oct 2026 checks; terms as per the June 2026 playbook. Confirm the current call/window on the official link before applying.
The SPARSH programme supports innovators in developing affordable health-related solutions so that essential healthcare products can reach and benefit underserved communities.
Objectives
SPARSH, the social innovation initiative designed biotechnological interventions to address critical societal issues. SPARSH revolves around nurturing "Social Innovators" within the biotech domain, equipped to identify community needs and gaps, and formulate innovative product developments or services to bridge these disparities.
Who can apply?
- There are two components under the initiative – (i) Affordable Product Development and (ii) Social Innovation Immersion Program (SIIP). Startups and entrepreneurs are eligible for Category A under Component I. Specific eligibility criteria include the following:
- Biotechnology Indian startups (less than 3 years old)
- Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) – less than 3 years old
- Indian academic scientists, researchers etc.
What do you get?
- Grant-in-aid assistance up to ₹50 lakh for a period of up to 18 months.
How to apply
The call for Letter of Intent (LoI) is announced twice a year on a thematic area with high societal impact The LoI is to be submitted online on the BIRAC website: https://www.birac.nic.in/