Thermo Fisher Scientific, in collaboration with Startup India and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), has launched the BioVerse Challenge — a nationwide initiative aimed at fast-tracking 500 high-potential biotech start-ups across India over the next three years.

Unveiled at the 7th Biopharma Conclave under the Bharat Startup Grand Challenge, the programme aligns with the Government of India’s vision of building a USD 300 billion bioeconomy by 2030 and strengthening the nation’s position as a global technology hub. As part of the launch, Thermo Fisher signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with DPIIT to promote scientific innovation and commercialisation.

“We are privileged to support India’s aspirations to build a strong bioeconomy by 2030,” said Tony Acciarito, President, Asia Pacific & Middle East, Africa, Thermo Fisher Scientific. “Through the BioVerse Challenge in collaboration with DPIIT, we continue to empower start-ups with cutting-edge technologies, expertise, and scientific networks. Together, we are inspiring breakthroughs, strengthening local capabilities, and creating lasting impact for communities across the country.”

India currently has over 10,075 biotech start-ups that have accelerated the bioeconomy to USD 80 billion in 2023, with projections to reach USD 150 billion by the end of this year.

“Through our partnership with Thermo Fisher Scientific, we are fostering deeper collaboration between start-ups and industry leaders in the biotechnology space,” said Sumeet Kumar Jarangal, Director, DPIIT. “Thermo Fisher’s global expertise, combined with Startup India’s growing network of recognised biotech start-ups, will accelerate innovation pipelines and enable product-focused start-ups to address India’s healthcare and biotechnology challenges.”

The BioVerse Challenge will support early-stage start-ups across biopharma, medtech, agritech, food tech, and allied bio-based sectors. Over the next three years, 100 selected start-ups will receive on-site training at Thermo Fisher’s upcoming Customer Experience Centre (CEC) and Bioprocess Design Centre (BDC) in Hyderabad’s Genome Valley, both scheduled to open by the end of 2025. A further 400 start-ups will benefit from off-site mentorship through workshops at research institutes and incubators across India.

“The BioVerse Challenge reflects our commitment to working closely with early-stage start-ups and bio-incubators across India,” said Srinath Venkatesh, Managing Director, India & South Asia, Thermo Fisher Scientific. “Through our upcoming facilities in Genome Valley, we aim to help founders move from prototype to product faster and compete globally. In addition, our Centres for Innovation in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Guwahati, and Bhubaneswar — established in partnership with leading bio-incubators in DBT-supported biotech parks — will provide continued support.”

An Advisory Board comprising leaders from business, policy, research, academia, and the investment community will guide the implementation of the BioVerse Challenge. The board will evaluate applications, provide strategic direction, and build a nationwide mentor network to maximise impact for participating start-ups.