Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma MedTech sector (PRIP)
A government grant scheme by the Department of Pharmaceuticals to boost R&D in pharma and medical devices for startups and MSMEs, with up to ₹5 crore funding.
- Funding amount
- ₹10L – ₹5Cr (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Department of Pharmaceuticals (Government)
- Application deadline
- Closed (10 Nov 2025)
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma MedTech sector (PRIP) is a flagship grant scheme by the Department of Pharmaceuticals aimed at transforming India into a global R&D hub for pharmaceuticals and medical devices. With a total outlay of ₹5000 crores, the program funds projects that address critical public health needs, including neglected tropical diseases, rare diseases, and antimicrobial resistance.
The scheme focuses on enabling rapid discovery, development, and commercialization of new drugs and medical devices. It promotes industry-academia collaboration and encourages a shift from cost-based to innovation-driven growth. Special emphasis is placed on Strategic Priority Innovations – products with low market potential but high public health impact.
Startups and MSMEs working on early-stage technologies (TRL 1–3) can apply for grants to advance their projects up to TRL 5, with priority given to collaborative projects involving reputed government academic or research institutions.
Highlights
- Grant funding from ₹10 lakh to ₹5 crore per project.
- Total scheme outlay of ₹5000 crore.
- Open to startups and MSMEs only.
- Focus on early-stage R&D (TRL 1 to 5).
- Priority for projects on neglected tropical diseases, rare diseases, and antimicrobial resistance.
- Industry-academia collaboration preferred.
Who can apply
Only Startups and MSMEs registered in India are eligible. Projects must have completed Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 1, 2, or 3 and aim to progress up to TRL 5. The proposal must align with one of the following priority areas:
- New Medicines: New Chemical Entities (NCEs), New Biological Entities (NBEs), and Phytopharmaceutical drugs.
- Complex generics & Biosimilars.
- Novel Medical Devices: AI/ML-based devices, Software as a Medical Device (SaMD), Software in a Medical Device (SiMD), robotic devices, and novel in-vitro diagnostics (IVDs).
Collaboration with reputed Government academic or research institutions is encouraged and receives preference during evaluation.
Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma MedTech sector (PRIP) is open to startups at any stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
- Eligible stage
- Any stage
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Deadline & timing
The most recent application window for Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma MedTech sector (PRIP) closed on 10 Nov 2025. Many programmes run repeat cohorts, so it is worth checking the official site for the next round.
What the funding covers
Successful applicants receive a grant of ₹10 lakh to ₹5 crore per project. The grant covers costs related to R&D activities, including technology development, testing, and commercialization efforts up to TRL 5. For Strategic Priority Innovations addressing public health concerns with low market potential, additional financial support is available under the ₹5000 crore outlay.
About the provider
Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma MedTech sector (PRIP) is offered by Department of Pharmaceuticals, a government body. As a government-backed grant, it is publicly funded and open to eligible startups across India. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.
Documents you’ll need
Before you apply to Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma MedTech sector (PRIP), keep the following documents ready:
- A pitch deck or short business plan describing the problem, product and traction
- Company registration documents and PAN
- Founder identification (PAN / Aadhaar) and brief profiles
- Recent financial statements or projections
- Product details — a demo, prototype or working link if available
Exact requirements are confirmed on the official application portal — treat this as a preparation checklist.
Who this is best for
Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma MedTech sector (PRIP) is best suited for startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹10L – ₹5Cr. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
How much funding is offered under PRIP?
The grant amount ranges from ₹10 lakh to ₹5 crore per project.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for applications is November 10, 2025.
Who can apply for this scheme?
Only Startups and MSMEs registered in India are eligible to apply.
What technology readiness level is required?
Projects must have completed TRL 1, 2, or 3 and aim to progress up to TRL 5.
Which industry sectors are covered?
The scheme covers pharmaceuticals and medical devices, including new medicines (NCEs, NBEs, phytopharmaceuticals), complex generics, biosimilars, and novel medical devices (AI/ML-based, robotic, IVDs, etc.).
Is industry-academia collaboration mandatory?
No, it is encouraged and given preference in selection, but not mandatory.
Does the scheme take equity?
No, this is a grant (non-dilutive funding) with no equity taken.
Where can I apply?
Applications are submitted online at the official portal: https://prip.pharma-dept.gov.in.
Is DPIIT or MSME registration required?
Yes, eligible entities must be registered as a startup or MSME. While the source does not explicitly require DPIIT or MSME registration, only startups and MSMEs can apply, implying relevant registration is needed.
Who offers Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma MedTech sector (PRIP)?
Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma MedTech sector (PRIP) is offered by Department of Pharmaceuticals, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma MedTech sector (PRIP)?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
More funding from Department of Pharmaceuticals
Department of Pharmaceuticals runs 2 other programs listed on startupfunds — compare them before you decide where to apply.
Alternatives to Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma MedTech sector (PRIP)
Not sure Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma MedTech sector (PRIP) is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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