Medical Device Partnering Program

Program Overview

The Medical Device Partnering Program (MDPP), provided by the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), is designed to foster collaboration between researchers, industry, end-users, and government to accelerate the development of innovative medical technologies with global market potential. The program aims to bridge gaps in the medical device innovation pipeline by providing expert mentoring, facilitating partnerships, and supporting project development from concept to commercialisation.

MDPP aims to enhance Australia’s medical technology sector by connecting stakeholders and providing tailored support to projects demonstrating strong commercial viability and health impact. While the program does not provide direct grant funding, it offers invaluable in-kind mentoring services and access to networks that can significantly advance product development and market entry.

Key Details

• Funding amount or range:
  • No direct funding; provides in-kind mentoring, partnership facilitation, and project support
• Application open and close dates:
  • Applications are accepted on a rolling basis; no fixed closing dates
• Eligible industries and business types:
  • Australian medical device companies, startups, researchers, and health technology innovators
  • Industry partners, research organisations, and government entities involved in medical technology development
• Co-contribution or matching fund requirements:
  • No formal co-contribution is required; however, active participation and commitment to collaboration are expected
• Location/state/territory applicability:
  • Available to businesses and organisations across all Australian states and territories

Eligibility Criteria

• Must be an Australian-based business, research organisation, or consortium involved in medical device innovation
• The project must focus on the development of medical technologies with clear commercial and health impact potential
• Demonstrate readiness to engage in collaborative development and mentoring activities
• Commitment to working with MDPP facilitators and stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle
• Ability to provide relevant project documentation and participate in progress reporting

Eligible Activities and Expenses

• Mentoring and coaching on medical device development, regulatory pathways, and commercialisation strategies
• Facilitation of partnerships between researchers, industry, end-users, and government
• Support for prototype development, validation, and testing activities
• Assistance with market analysis, intellectual property management, and funding strategy
• Engagement with clinical and consumer end-users to inform product design and usability
• Note: MDPP does not provide direct funding for capital costs, marketing, or export development

Assessment Process

• The program operates on a non-competitive, entitlement-based model where applications are reviewed for alignment with MDPP objectives
• Assessment focuses on project innovation, commercial potential, and collaboration readiness
• Selection prioritises projects with strong potential for health impact and global market scalability
• Ongoing monitoring and evaluation occur through regular engagement with MDPP facilitators

Application Tips

• Clearly articulate the innovation’s medical and commercial value proposition
• Demonstrate commitment to collaborative development and stakeholder engagement
• Provide detailed project plans, including milestones, timelines, and expected outcomes
• Highlight existing partnerships or networks supporting the project
• Prepare to engage actively with MDPP mentors and participate in all program activities
• Submit complete documentation to facilitate timely assessment and onboarding

Further Support

To maximise the benefits of the Medical Device Partnering Program, businesses are encouraged to seek professional grant and commercialisation advice. With 30 years of experience assisting Australian businesses in securing grants and navigating innovation programs, Pattens Group offers expert guidance to strengthen applications and manage compliance. Consulting with Pattens ensures strategic alignment and enhances your project’s prospects for success. Contact us to leverage our expertise and advance your medical device innovation.