Australia Economic Accelerator: Innovate Grant program

Purpose and Program Overview

The Australia Economic Accelerator (AEA) Innovate grant program provides grants for mid-stage research commercialisation. The program helps university researchers and their industry partners. It supports projects to move from a proof-of-concept stage to proof-of-scale. The purpose of the funding is to develop and test prototypes or pilot systems. This must be done in an industry-relevant setting. The grant aims to drive innovation by helping bridge the gap between academic research and commercial outcomes. The program supports specific Australian Government priority areas. This helps grow industries that are important for the nation’s future. It facilitates collaboration between the research sector and Australian businesses.

Key Grant Details

• Grant amount or funding range: Up to $5 million per project.
• Application open and close dates: The Expression of Interest (EOI) closed on August 29, 2025. Full applications closed on October 29, 2025.
• Eligible industries or business types: Must involve an eligible Australian university or university college and an industry partner.
• Required co-contributions: Mandatory industry partner contribution of at least 50% of the total project budget in cash and/or in-kind.
• Location/state/territory applicability: Australia.

Priority Sectors

Projects must align with one of the Australian Government’s identified priority areas. These sectors include:

• Critical and strategic minerals processing
• Sustainable fuels
• Agriculture and food technology
• Quantum
• Artificial intelligence (AI)
• Advanced manufacturing
• Space
• Renewable energy

Funding Scope

The maximum funding is $5 million per project. The project duration is a maximum of 24 months. The grant supports technology development in the mid-stage of commercialisation. This is defined by Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 5, 6, or 7.

Eligibility Criteria

• Project lead: Applications must be led by eligible Australian universities or university colleges.
• Collaboration: Collaboration with an industry partner is mandatory.
• Funding match: The industry partner must contribute at least 50% of the total project budget in cash or in-kind.
• Focus area: Projects must align with one of the specific government priority areas.
• Technology Readiness Level: Projects must be operating at TRL 5, 6, or 7.

Eligible Activities and Expenses

Innovate grant program supports activities related to mid-stage commercialisation. This includes funding to:

• Develop and refine prototypes.
• Establish and test pilot systems.
• Conduct testing in an industry-relevant environment.

Assessment Process

The program involves a two-stage application process, starting with an EOI. The grant is competitive. The assessment focuses on the project’s alignment with government priorities and its potential for commercial success.

Recent Program Updates

The application period for Round 2 of the AEA Innovate grant program is now closed. The EOI and full application deadlines have passed. Researchers should monitor the AEA website for news on future rounds. The companion program, AEA Ignite, may have its next round open in early 2026.

Application Tips

Consult the AEA website for specific guidelines. Double-check all eligibility criteria, particularly the TRL requirements. Ensure the proposal clearly demonstrates the industry partner’s commitment and the project’s direct alignment with a government priority area.

Where to Get Help

Consider consulting a grant specialist for a personalised eligibility assessment and expert assistance in preparing a strong, compliant and competitive application. Contact us today, and we will connect you with Australia’s best grant specialist, boasting over 35 years of experience in the industry and a 100% success rate. For official guidelines, application details, templates, and further information, visit the AEA official website and other associated Australian government websites.