RNA Pipeline Grants (RPG)

Purpose and Program Overview

The RNA Pipeline Grants (RPG) program, a competitive $6 million initiative by the NSW Government, is strategically designed to support the development and commercialisation of RNA therapeutics, vaccines, and related technologies within Australia. The program’s core purpose is to advance innovative RNA technologies towards commercialisation in New South Wales (NSW), underscoring the strategic importance of your potential projects.

This grant is not just about supporting individual projects but about fostering a globally competitive RNA ecosystem. It aims to support the development of products for manufacturing at the NSW RNA Research and Manufacturing Facility, enhance commercialisation opportunities for NSW-based startups and businesses, and advance RNA-related research. The program also facilitates project progress along the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) scale and helps recipients attract investment and expand their workforce.

The expected outcomes of the RNA Pipeline Grants program include supporting manufacturing and commercialisation within NSW, as well as fostering a mature and sustainable RNA industry. More importantly, the program plays a significant role in driving innovation in Australia’s life sciences and biotechnology sectors, offering the potential for groundbreaking work in your field.

RNA Pipeline Grants: Key Details

• Grant Amount or Funding Range: Grants range from $200,000 to $3,000,000 per project.
• Application Open and Close Dates: Applications opened at 1:00 PM AEST on 21 July 2025 and closed at 1:00 PM AEDT on 16 September 2025.
• Eligible Industries or Business Types: Companies incorporated under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Corporations, individuals or partnerships agreeing to form a company, and NSW public research organisations or medical research institutes applying through their technology transfer office or CEO, who will create a separate entity.
• Required Co-contributions: Not specified as a mandatory percentage, but budget and value for money are assessment criteria.
• Location/State/Territory Applicability: Projects must be headquartered in NSW, with the majority of activities based in NSW.

Priority Sectors

The program specifically targets the life sciences and biotechnology sectors, with a focus on RNA therapeutics, vaccines, and related technologies.

Funding Scope

• Minimum Grant Amount per project: $200,000.
• Maximum Grant Amount per project: $3,000,000.
• Categories of Funding: Support is for projects involving the development and commercialisation of RNA therapeutics, vaccines, and related technologies.
• Project Timeline or Eligible Funding Duration: Projects must be completed within two years, unless exceptional circumstances are approved.

Eligibility Criteria

• ABN and GST: Applicants must have an Australian Business Number (ABN) and be registered for GST.
• Headquarters and Operations: Must be headquartered in NSW, with the majority of project activities based in NSW.
• Business Structure: Must be a company incorporated under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Corporation, an individual or partnership agreeing to form a company, or a NSW public research organisation or medical research institute applying through its technology transfer office or CEO who will create a separate entity.
• Intellectual Property (IP): Applicants must hold the IP or have commercialisation rights in Australia and major international markets.
• Joint Applications: Joint applications between business entities and research organisations are encouraged, with the business entity leading the project.
• Project Readiness: Projects must have an existing proof of concept (demonstrated in vitro) and be at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3-6 at the time of application, showing a clear need for government support.
• Producibility: The product must be capable of production at the NSW RNA Research and Manufacturing Facility.

Eligible Activities and Expenses

The grant supports activities related to advancing RNA technologies towards commercialisation. This includes:

• Development and commercialisation of RNA therapeutics, vaccines, and related technologies.
• Activities designed to progress projects along the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) scale.
• Project activities primarily occur in NSW.
• Work that helps secure investment and workforce expansion.
• Development of products suitable for manufacturing at the NSW RNA Research and Manufacturing Facility.

Assessment Process

• Nature of the Grant: Competitive.

Key Evaluation Criteria:

• Strategic Alignment and Impact: 30% weighting.
• Commercial Potential: 25% weighting.
• Technical Merit and Feasibility: 25% weighting.
• Capability and Track Record: 10% weighting.
• Budget and Value for Money: 10% weighting.

An Expert Panel assesses eligible applications. Shortlisted applicants may be invited for interviews. The Secretary of the Premier’s Department makes the final decision based on the panel’s recommendations.

Recent Updates of RNA Pipeline Grants (RPG)

The RNA Pipeline Grants program is not just a standalone initiative. It’s part of broader government efforts to establish Australia as a leader in RNA technology. This $6 million competitive program from the NSW Government, with its first round opening in July 2025, is designed to support the development of the RNA sector in NSW and Australia.

Application Tips

• Ensure your project and organisation meet all specific eligibility criteria, especially regarding the NSW headquarters and operational location.
• Demonstrate the project’s TRL level and existing proof-of-concept.
• Highlight the commercial potential and strategic alignment of your project with the NSW RNA Research and Manufacturing Facility.
• Prepare a detailed budget that demonstrates value for money.
• If applicable, consider a joint application with a research organisation, led by the business entity.

Where to Get Help for RPG

Consider consulting with a professional grant specialist, such as Pattens Group. We offer initial assessments to review your business’s eligibility and evaluate how well your project aligns with the grant’s objectives. You can also visit relevant government websites for application templates and further guidance.