Startup Funding Hub

Every startup’s path is different, but each requires capital to advance. Indiana’s life sciences ecosystem provides founders with access to both non-dilutive funding (grants and awards) and dilutive capital (angels and venture investors). Use this guide to explore options at every stage of your journey.

Understanding Funding Types

Non-dilutive funding

Non-dilutive funding gives you capital without selling ownership.
Common sources include grants, SBIR and STTR awards, research contracts, milestone or purchase prepayments from customers, prize competitions, tax credits and rebates, licensing revenue, philanthropy, and loans or venture debt that do not convert to equity. Some debt may include warrants or conversion features.

Dilutive funding

Dilutive funding gives you capital in exchange for equity now or later. Common instruments include priced equity rounds, SAFEs, convertible notes that convert at a future round, and equity crowdfunding.

Funding by Stage

Each stage offers different funding sources—from federal grants and university funds in early discovery to angel investors and seed funds as the venture matures.