Empowering Youth for Value Added Innovative Translational Research (E-YUVA Scheme) is a scheme of Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) to promote applied research and entrepreneurial innovation among NEHU students/Young researchers. It offers seed money, mentorship and platform to grow an entrepreneurial idea as well as translational research particularly in areas relevant to biotechnology and neighboring fields.
E-YUVA Centers (EYCs), which are facilitated in collaboration with universities and academic institutions have pre-incubation spaces, infrastructure and support systems to run the program. Their objective of startup focused EYCs is to connect academia with industry through providing an avenue for innovation directed at societal and industrial grand challenges.
Key Features of E-YUVA Centers (EYCs)
- Pre-Incubation Space: Dedicated infrastructure (minimum 3,000 sq. ft.) and equipment for basic research.
- Fellowships and Mentorship: Management of fellowships, mentoring, and providing entrepreneurial orientation to students and researchers.
- Workshops and Awareness Programs: Organizing entrepreneurial workshops for capacity building.
- BIRAC BioNEST Connection: Integration with BioNEST-supported bio-incubators for advanced research support.
Responsibilities of EYCs
- Process and evaluate online fellowship applications.
- Conduct eligibility checks and technical reviews.
- Mentor fellows in technical, entrepreneurial, and business aspects.
- Organize periodic review meetings and submit progress updates to BIRAC.
- Provide access to IP, regulatory, and business support.
- Promote networking and collaboration opportunities for fellows.
Tenure of E-YUVA Centers
- Initial engagement: 3 years.
- Extension: Based on annual performance reviews.
E-Yuva Knowledge Partner
Each EYC is associated with a BIRAC-supported BioNEST Bio-incubator, which acts as a knowledge partner to provide:
- Mentorship for innovation fellows.
- Guidance on entrepreneurial and business development.
- Support for outreach and program branding.
Benefits of the Scheme
- Financial Support for EYCs:
- Non-Recurring Costs:
- Refurbishing: ₹10 Lakhs (Year 1)
- Equipment: ₹30 Lakhs (Year 1)
- Total: ₹40 Lakhs
- Recurring Costs:
- Workshops, manpower, travel, outreach, contingency, and honorarium.
- ₹67.5 Lakhs over three years.
- Total Support: ₹107.5 Lakhs (over 3 years).
- Non-Recurring Costs:
- Empowerment through Infrastructure:
- Dedicated pre-incubation space and access to state-of-the-art equipment.
- Technical and Business Mentorship:
- Expert guidance for entrepreneurial ventures and research projects.
- Workshops and Awareness Programs:
- Regular sessions on entrepreneurship, innovation, and IP management.
Eligibility Criteria
- Institutions:
- Universities/Institutions registered under Indian law with at least 51% Indian stakeholders.
- Located in Tier II/III cities (encouraged).
- Must be public or private institutions with a Life Sciences department (Biotechnology, Biosciences, Agriculture, Food Technology, etc.).
- At least 3 years old with experience in innovation-promoting activities.
- Mandatory Conditions:
- Presence of innovation-supporting bodies like E-Cells, IP Cells, or Incubation Centers.
- Availability of 3,000 sq. ft. dedicated space with infrastructure.
- Connect with a bio-incubator and a network of mentors.
- Head of Institution:
- Must nominate a Project Lead until a dedicated EYC staff is appointed.
Application Process
Steps for Application Submission:
- Application must be routed through the Head of the Institution.
- Register and apply via the BIRAC website (www.birac.nic.in).
- Submit proposals online, ensuring eligibility and documentation.
Selection Criteria:
- Availability of dedicated space and infrastructure.
- Past experience in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Number of startups, patents, and industry collaborations from the institution.
- Funds raised or received for supporting innovations.
- Commitment to the program from the institution’s leadership.
Selection Process:
- Proposals evaluated by the EYC Expert Committee.
- Shortlisted institutions present their case at BIRAC.
- Based on evaluation, a site visit may be conducted.
- Final decision by the EYC committee after financial due diligence.
Documents Required
- Registration Certificate: Proof of legal recognition of the university/institution.
- Other Supporting Documents: Evidence of eligibility, infrastructure, and prior achievements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the E-YUVA Scheme?
It is a program to promote applied research and entrepreneurial innovation among students and researchers. - What are E-YUVA Centers (EYCs)?
Dedicated hubs within universities/institutions providing infrastructure, mentoring, and funding support for innovation. - Who can apply under this scheme?
Universities and institutions with at least 3 years of experience and a Life Sciences department. - What financial support is provided?
₹107.5 Lakhs over three years, including costs for infrastructure, workshops, and manpower. - How are applications submitted?
Through the BIRAC website via the institution’s head.