Innovate grants support mid-stage research commercialisation through competitive grants of up to $5 million for a maximum period of 24 months.
These grants are available for researchers at Australian universities to collaborate with industry to advance projects that already have laboratory proof-of-concept.
Grant recipients are expected to be able to increase the technology and commercial readiness of their innovation to reach proof-of-scale. This includes developing and testing prototypes or pilots for new products, processes or software in an industry-relevant environment.
Technology readiness level and proof-of-scale
The TRL index is a globally accepted research commercialisation benchmarking tool. It tracks development through the early stages of innovation chain, from blue sky research (TRL 1) to actual readiness for commercial use (TRL 9). AEA uses the Department of Defence TRL scale. This is available to applicants to work out which stage the project is currently at and where it can go with AEA funding.
Innovate supports projects that commence at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5, 6 or 7. There is no requirement for Innovate applications to have progress via the Ignite program. As long as proposed projects meet the TRL of 5, 6 or 7, applicants can apply directly for Innovate program funding.
These grants are for proof-of-scale. Proving proof-of-scale happens after completion of basic research and testing for proof-of-concept. It is where research has been proven in a testing environment that closely resembles the conditions that will be encountered with industry. It allows for validation of ideas, ensuring that they are viable and practical. It is about demonstrating that what has been developed during the research phase can now be implemented successfully in a real-world scenario on a commercial or industrial scale.
AEA Innovate round 1
Outcomes for AEA Innovate Round 1 have now been finalised. A total of $93 million across 39 research commercialisation projects was announced on Friday, 4 July. To find out more, read the news story.
AEA Innovate round 2
Details on how to apply for the second round of AEA Innovate will be released shortly.
Industry engagement
It is mandatory for AEA Innovate grant applications to demonstrate the project has a level of industry engagement and a pathway to commercialisation. This includes contributions from an industry partner. Contributions by the nominated partner can be cash or in-kind support. Applications must have a minimum contribution of 50% of the total budget in cash and/or in-kind support from the combined participating organisations.