The BioE3 Policy (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment & Employment) was approved in August 2024 to promote high-performance biomanufacturing and green growth in India’s Bioeconomy.

2. Scope of the Call

DBT and BIRAC aim to support Smart Proteins (fermentation-derived, plant-based, and cell culture-based proteins) as sustainable alternatives to traditional food systems. Proposals are invited in two categories:

1. Discovery & Application-oriented Research (TRL 3-5) – Proof-of-concept development and applied research.

2. Bridging the Gaps for Scale-up (TRL 5-7) – Scaling validated technologies to pilot or pre-commercial levels.

2.1 Research Focus Areas:

• Fermentation-derived Smart Proteins: Precision fermentation, genetic engineering, alternative feedstocks.

• Plant-Based Smart Proteins: Protein extraction, hybrid protein blends, texturization, safety improvements.

• Cell Culture-based Smart Proteins: Serum-free growth media, edible scaffolds, cost-effective production.

2.2 Scale-up Focus Areas:

• Fermentation-derived Proteins: AI-driven optimization, modular bioreactors, non-chromatographic purification.

• Plant-Based Proteins: Optimized texturization, bio-based preservatives, life cycle assessment.

• Cell Culture-based Proteins: High-density fermentation, 3D printing for large-scale cultivated meat.

3. Key Requirements

• Economic and environmental sustainability.

• Clearly defined technology gaps and strategies to address them.

• Technology Readiness Level (TRL) progression.

• Adherence to regulatory requirements.

4. Submission Guidelines

• Academia: Submit via DBT e-ProMIS portal (www.dbtepromis.nic.in).

• Industry & Academia-Industry Collaborations: Submit via BIRAC website (www.birac.nic.in).

5. Eligible Organizations

• Academic Institutions recognized as SIROs.

• Industry (as per BIRAC’s Biomanufacturing Implementation Plan).

Documents Required (Industry/Startups/LLPs)

• Incorporation certificate, shareholding pattern (51% Indian ownership), financial statements, R&D facility details, legal declarations.

6. Evaluation Criteria

Standard DBT and BIRAC norms will apply.

7. Funding Modalities

• Academia-only projects funded by DBT.

• Industry & Academia-Industry projects funded by BIRAC.

• Project duration: Up to 2 years, extendable to 5 years based on performance.

8. Intellectual Property

IP rights will follow DBT and BIRAC policies.

9. Discretion

DBT/BIRAC’s funding decisions will be final.

10. Contact & Deadline

• Email: BioE3-smartproteins@dbt.nic.in

• Submission Deadline: 25th March 2025

This call supports India’s biomanufacturing sector by fostering research and commercialization of Smart Proteins to enhance food security and sustainability.