This joint call from DBT and BIRAC supports projects under the BioE3 Policy, focusing on 'Functional Foods' to foster high-performance biomanufacturing. The aim is to develop innovative solutions addressing chronic disorders and nutritional deficiencies through functional foods.

Focus Areas

The call emphasizes three key areas within functional foods:

Firstly, Functional Foods targeting chronic and difficult-to-manage disorders such as IBD, MASLD, and metabolic syndrome. These foods should act through mechanisms like immune modulation and gut-microbiome restructuring.

Secondly, Functional Foods for cognitive function and mental well-being, utilizing bioactive compounds and gut-brain axis modulation. This includes developing functional beverages and snacks to enhance mental performance.

Thirdly, Functional Foods for inborn errors of metabolism, and mitochondrial and peroxisomal disorders, formulated with specific nutrients to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life.

Project Categories

Proposals will be supported under two categories, each with specific Technology Readiness Level (TRL) expectations.

Discovery & Application-oriented Integrated Network Research (TRL 3-5) focuses on proof-of-concept development and applied research. The goal is to validate innovative ideas and technologies for functional food biomanufacturing, evaluating their functionality, safety, and efficacy.

Bridging the Gaps for Scale-up (TRL 5-8) aims to scale validated technologies from the laboratory to pilot-scale or pre-commercial levels. Emphasis is placed on efficiency, safety, techno-economic viability, and sustainability.

Eligibility

Both Academia and Industry applicants can submit proposals, either independently or collaboratively.

Academic Organizations:

• Must be engaged in research activities at recognized institutions.

• The Principal Investigator must have at least four years of employment remaining at the time of submission.

Industry: Eligibility criteria align with the "Implementation Plan for the Biomanufacturing and Biofoundry Initiative."

Submission Details

The mode of submission varies based on the applicant type.

Academia/Research Institutions/National Laboratories should submit proposals through the DBT's e-ProMIS portal (www.dbtepromis.nic.in). The proposal must be duly forwarded by the executive head of the institution.

Industry and Industry-Academia/DSIR recognized Non-Profit Organizations/Startups collaboration should submit proposals via the BIRAC website (www.birac.nic.in). Proposals must be forwarded by the executive head of the Company/LLP/Institution.

Funding and Project Duration

Funding sources depend on the project's partners. Projects with only academic partners will be funded by DBT, while those involving industry will be supported by BIRAC.

The extent of funding aligns with the "Implementation Plan for the Biomanufacturing and Biofoundry Initiative." Project duration is initially up to 2 years, with potential extension up to 5 years based on performance.

Intellectual Property (IP) generated during the project will be managed according to DBT and BIRAC's IP policies.

Important Dates and Contact Information

The last date for submission of proposals is 10th July 2025. Applicants should adhere strictly to the prescribed proforma.

For academic applicants, contact Dr. Amit K. Tripathi at DBT (amitkr.tripathi@dbt.nic.in). For industry applicants, contact Dr. Sujit Das at BIRAC (tech03@birac.nic.in).

For technical queries, use the provided email addresses for the DBT e-ProMIS team or the BIRAC IT Team.