SITARE-Gandhian Young Technological Innovation Award Grant (SITARE-GYTI)
The SITARE-GYTI Award Grant, by BIRAC under the Ministry of Science and Technology, supports innovative student projects in biotechnology. It aims to promote translational research and encourage the creation of biotech startups by providing funding and mentoring.
What is the SITARE-GYTI Award Grant?
The SITARE-GYTI Award Grant provides financial support to postgraduate and doctoral students for developing innovative biotech products and technologies. It focuses on translational research with commercial potential, leading to the establishment of biotech startups.
Key Objectives of the SITARE-GYTI Award Grant
· Promote Translational Research: To encourage students to develop innovative products and technologies.
· Support Biotech Startups: To facilitate the creation of biotech startups through student projects.
· Address Unmet Needs: To develop solutions for societal and industrial challenges.
· Foster Innovation: To nurture innovative ideas in biotechnology.
· Provide Mentoring: To offer technical, legal, and business support to fund recipients.
Eligibility Criteria for the SITARE-GYTI Award Grant
· Student Status: An Indian student pursuing a Ph.D. or Master's degree in any discipline.
· Institutional ID: Must possess a valid ID issued by the Institution/University.
· No Objection Certificate (NoC): Required from the institution.
· One-Time Grant: A student can receive the award grant only once.
· Commercial Potential: Projects must have commercial potential leading to biotech startups.
· Exceptional Talent: Meritorious candidates outside the standard criteria may be considered with BIRAC approval.
Benefits of the SITARE-GYTI Award Grant
· Funding Support: Up to INR 15 lakhs per project in grant-in-aid.
· Milestone-Based Release: Funds released in installments of up to INR 5 lakhs based on achieved milestones.
· Mentoring Support: Technical, IP, legal, networking, training, regulatory, and business mentoring.
· Prototype Development: Up to 30% of funds for prototype development.
· Travel and Incubator Rentals: Up to 15% each.
· Manpower: Up to 15% (salary for PI during incubation or team member assistance).
· Consumables: Up to 20%.
· Training and Conferences: Up to 10%.
· Contingency: 5%.
How to Apply for the SITARE-GYTI Award Grant?
· Online Application:
1. Visit the BIRAC website: [www.birac.nic.in](www.birac.nic.in).
2. Register as a new user or log in with existing credentials.
3. Navigate to the SITARE-GYTI link under Programmes.
4. Click on the active call and submit the proposal.
· Application Frequency: Once a year (August/September announcement, 45-60 days call duration).
· Selection Process: Eligibility check, stage-wise screening by domain experts, presentation before an Expert Panel.
Documents Required for Application
· Valid ID issued by the Institution/University.
· No Objection Certificate (NoC).
· PAN Card.
· Educational qualification certificates.
· Details of proposal/report.
· Any other relevant document.
FAQs About the SITARE-GYTI Award Grant
1. Who is eligible?
Indian students pursuing Ph.D. or Master's in any discipline.
2. What is the funding amount?
Up to INR 15 lakhs per project.
3. How do I apply?
Online through the BIRAC website.
4. What areas are covered?
Healthcare, agriculture, industrial biotech, and more.
5. Is mentoring provided?
Yes, extensive technical and business mentoring.
Why Should You Apply for the SITARE-GYTI Award Grant?
The SITARE-GYTI Award Grant offers a unique opportunity for students to translate innovative ideas into real-world solutions. With substantial funding and comprehensive mentoring, it provides the necessary support to launch successful biotech startups and contribute to societal development.
Conclusion
The SITARE-GYTI Award Grant is a vital initiative that empowers young innovators in biotechnology. By providing financial support and guidance, it fosters a culture of entrepreneurship and drives the development of cutting-edge technologies that address critical challenges.