KOCHI: The Virology Innovation Cohort, a national-level innovation programme jointly organized by Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) and the Institute of Advanced Virology (IAV), has extended its application deadline to June 20, 2026.
The six-month Virology Innovation Cohort aims to support startups and innovators working in the areas of virology, emerging infections, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
The cohort has been designed to provide a comprehensive platform for innovation, combining scientific mentorship, product development support, access to sector-specific incubation facilities, and exposure to the startup ecosystem.
In addition to mentorship and incubation support, the cohort will create opportunities for startups to adopt validated technologies developed by IAV through technology transfer mechanisms, enabling venture creation and commercialization.
The programme will focus on translating promising research and innovative ideas into market-ready products.
Through the Virology Innovation Cohort, participating startups and innovators will be encouraged to develop solutions across key domains, including diagnostics, therapeutics, vaccine and immunology platforms, genomics and bioinformatic innovations, viral technologies, and phage-based interventions targeting antimicrobial resistance.
The Virology Innovation Cohort seeks to strengthen innovation in healthcare and life sciences by bridging the gap between scientific research and commercial application.
By bringing together innovators, researchers, and startup ecosystem stakeholders, the programme aims to accelerate the development of impactful solutions addressing emerging infectious diseases and AMR-related challenges.
Startups and innovators interested in participating in the Virology Innovation Cohort can submit their applications until June 20, 2026, through the programme portal at https://virology.startupmission.in/.
For technology transfer initiatives and related enquiries associated with the Virology Innovation Cohort, interested applicants can contact rink@startupmission.in.
