BIRAC / DST Grant Compliance Checklist
Track milestone reports, utilisation certificates, audits, and quarterly submissions for BIRAC and DST grant recipients — never miss a deadline.
Based on BIRAC grant management guidelines, DST-NIDHI operational manual, and TDB funding norms. Requirements vary by sanction letter — always refer to your specific grant agreement for binding conditions. Deadlines are indicative.
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Frequently asked questions
What is BIRAC and which grants does it offer to startups?
BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council) is a PSE under DBT that funds biotech innovation. Key schemes: BIG (Biotechnology Ignition Grant — up to ₹50L for idea-stage), BIPP (BIRAC Innovation Programme — up to ₹250L for product development), SPARSH (for social innovation in health/agriculture), and LEAP (product accelerator). Incubators can receive BIRAC Technology Transfer grants.
What is the utilisation certificate requirement for BIRAC grants?
BIRAC grantees must submit Utilisation Certificates (UC) within 3 months of project completion and annually for multi-year grants. The UC must be certified by a Chartered Accountant and co-signed by the Head of Institution (for academic grantees) or Director (for companies). Format: GFR 12-A for government-funded institutions, company letterhead for private entities.
What are DST-NIDHI programme obligations for incubators?
DST-NIDHI (National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations) incubators must submit: quarterly progress reports, annual statements of accounts (audited), performance data (startups supported, jobs, funding), and attend annual NIDHI review meetings. NIDHI-PRAYAS grantees must submit milestone reports tied to fund release tranches.
Can a startup receive both BIRAC and DST grants simultaneously?
Yes, in principle — BIRAC and DST fund different aspects of innovation. However, the same project cost cannot be double-funded. Grantees must disclose all government funding received in the project application and utilisation certificates. Some schemes have explicit restrictions on concurrent funding from other central government schemes for the same project.
What happens if a BIRAC grantee cannot meet a milestone?
Grantees who cannot meet a milestone must submit a written request for extension with reasons and a revised timeline. BIRAC Project Management Cell reviews and may grant a 3–6 month extension. Repeated delays or misutilisation can result in grant termination and recovery of disbursed amounts with interest. Proactive communication is critical.