Funding to develop solutions for market-led challenges using quantum technologies (closing date 2 July 2024)

The Critical Technologies Challenge Program (Round 1) will provide joint collaborations with funding to develop quantum technology solutions (or components contributing to solutions) for market-led challenges of national significance.

Grants of up to $500,000 are available for Stage 1 feasibility projects. For successful Stage 1 feasibility projects, grants of up to $5 million will be available for Stage 2 demonstrator projects.

Demand for the program is likely to be strong, with applications needing to score highly to be competitive. Since the time available to prepare a submission is limited, we recommend giving this opportunity consideration immediately.

How it works

• Stage 1 grants are available for feasibility projects that investigate and test the technical viability of potential quantum technology solutions (or components contributing to solutions).
• Applicants who successfully complete their feasibility projects will then be invited to apply Stage 2 grants for demonstrator projects to build on the Stage 1 outcomes and produce working prototypes (or similar).

Challenges to be addressed (at least one)

• Optimise the performance, sustainability and security of energy networks.
• Improve medical imaging and medical sensors to support diagnosis, treatment of disease and monitoring activities inside the human body.
• Enhance communication with autonomous systems in varying environments.
• Optimise and reduce the impact of resource exploration, extraction and mineral processing.

Eligible applicants

• Consortia involving at least one Australian business (which can be the lead applicant) and at least one Australian research organisation (e.g., a university).
• For interested parties lacking the connections needed to form consortia, a contacts directory will soon be launched to match businesses and research organisations.

Grant details

• Stage 1: Grants of $100,000-$500,000 for up to 100 per cent of the total Stage 1 project expenditure.
• Stage 2: Grants of $1 million-$5 million, capped at 80 per cent of the total Stage 2 project expenditure.
• Application forms will need to be completed at both stages, along with several mandatory attachments.

Key dates

• Applications for Stage 1 grants must be submitted by 2 July 2024.
• The funding round for Stage 2 applications will occur in 2025.
• Stage 1 feasibility projects can take no longer than six months and must be completed by 9 May 2025, with Stage 2 projects to be completed subsequently.

Our team is skilled at preparing competitive applications and strategically positioning projects to align with program objectives and the factors that drive funding decisions. We have also developed processes and templates to ensure maximum efficiency.

Please reach out if you would like to discuss any of the above.