The Global Connections Fund (GCF) is a new project of the Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering (ATSE) and is supported by the Australian Government.
The GCF aims to provide initial support for Australian Researchers and Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to:
- increase linkages and collaborations with key global economies
- promote researcher-industry engagement, knowledge transfer
- foster end use development and commercialisation outcomes
The program consists of two forms of funding: Priming Grants and Bridging Grants.
Bridging Grants
Bridging Grants (BG) target early stage proof-of-concept and knowledge transfer, product development and market testing, and innovation & commercialisation activities.
They are designed to support international SME-Researcher partnerships grow beyond an initial level of engagement such as might be developed during a Priming Grant funded process, into a strong collaboration which leads to the translation of research knowledge and intellectual property into market ready products or services.
Funding
The Bridging Grants provide between $25,000 to $50,000 per grant to engage in these activities. They are highly competitive and are additionally supported on a matching funds/in-kind basis of additional resources from the applicant partners.
Bridging Grants cannot be used for basic research funding, for the acquisition of major capital equipment, or for conference travel.
BG Call Details (BG161)
A formal announcement of the opening of this round will be made in August 2016.
Each call has two phases: (1) Submission of an Expression of Interest (BG-EOI) and (2) if the BG-EOI is approved, completion and submission of a full application due by the nominated close date.
The Research Branch will provide application instructions via the Bulletin as soon as further details of this call become available.