DPIIT signs MoU with Pfizer to boost India’s healthcare innovation ecosystem

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

NEW DELHI, SEPTEMBER 4, 2025

In a major step towards advancing India’s healthcare innovation landscape, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pfizer Limited.

The collaboration seeks to accelerate the lab-to-market journey of healthcare innovations by providing both financial and non-financial support to startups. Under the partnership, the Pfizer INDovation program will extend grants of up to ₹60 lakh each to DPIIT-recognized startups, coupled with a customized 18-month incubation program delivered by Social Alpha.

The program will feature dedicated acceleration tracks covering clinical validation, regulatory approvals, and go-to-market strategies. Startups will also benefit from expert mentorship, access to infrastructure, global networks, and exposure to Pfizer’s Research and Development facilities in Chennai, equipping them with advanced industry insights.

This initiative will support 14 pioneering MedTech startups engaged in developing solutions for screening, diagnostics, health monitoring, and treatment enablers. A strong focus will be placed on addressing pressing healthcare challenges in non-communicable diseases, oncology, brain health, maternal and child health, and immunisation.

Speaking on the occasion, Sanjiv, Joint Secretary, DPIIT, emphasised that India must move towards novel drug discovery, with startups playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of healthcare innovation.

Reaffirming Pfizer’s commitment, Sharad Goswami, Senior Director – Global Policy and Public Affairs, Pfizer India, said the partnership would empower Indian startups to develop patient-centric and impactful healthcare solutions tailored to the country’s unique needs.

The MoU reflects DPIIT’s resolve to strengthen public–private partnerships that foster inclusive growth and reinforce India’s emergence as a global hub for healthcare innovation.