In a significant move to strengthen India’s healthcare innovation ecosystem, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pfizer Limited. The partnership seeks to nurture startups working in the MedTech space by providing them with both financial assistance and strategic support.
Expanding the Pfizer INDovation Program
As part of this collaboration, DPIIT-recognised startups will gain access to the Pfizer INDovation Program, which provides grants of up to ₹60 lakh per startup. Beyond funding, these startups will participate in an 18-month customised incubation program run by Social Alpha, designed to guide them through clinical validation, regulatory approvals, and go-to-market strategies.
Pfizer will also extend mentorship opportunities and connect selected startups to its global healthcare network. Additionally, participants will benefit from access to Pfizer’s R&D facility in Chennai, enabling them to refine their innovations with world-class expertise.
Focus on MedTech Challenges
The initiative will support 14 promising MedTech startups addressing some of India’s most pressing healthcare needs. The focus areas include:
- Screening and diagnostics
- Health monitoring solutions
- Treatment enablers
Particular attention will be given to startups innovating in non-communicable diseases, oncology, brain health, maternal and child health, and immunisation.
Driving Patient-Centric Solutions
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sanjiv, Joint Secretary at DPIIT, underlined the importance of fostering innovation in novel drug discovery and the transformative role startups can play in reshaping healthcare delivery in India.
Echoing this sentiment, Shri Sharad Goswami, Senior Director – Global Policy and Public Affairs, Pfizer India, said that the partnership reflects Pfizer’s commitment to developing patient-centric healthcare solutions tailored to India’s unique needs.
A Step Towards a Stronger Healthcare Ecosystem
The DPIIT-Pfizer collaboration marks a key milestone in India’s innovation journey. By combining the regulatory support of the government with the resources and expertise of a global pharmaceutical leader, the initiative is expected to create a more supportive environment for MedTech startups.
With financial backing, technical mentoring, and international exposure, startups under this program are well-positioned to develop scalable, impactful, and globally relevant healthcare solutions, ultimately contributing to a stronger and more resilient healthcare ecosystem in India.
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