Economic Accelerator funding for research into Artificial Intelligence, renewables and critical minerals
17 July 2024
The Australian Technology Network of Universities (ATN Universities) welcomes today’s launch of the first round of grants by Australia’s Economic Accelerator (AEA), in which university-based applicants can apply for funding to help drive research in key areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), critical minerals, renewables and green metals.
The AEA grants support economic priorities, outlined in the National Reconstruction Fund and Future Made in Australia policy, and allow researchers and industry partners to apply for an allocation from $180 million in funding, aimed at commercialising research.
Two streams are available for researchers, with $500,000 for proof-of-concept Ignite grants and up to $5 million for proof-of-scale Innovate grants.
ATN Universities Executive Director, Dr Ant Bagshaw, said ATN member universities are at the forefront of game-changing research, innovation and commercialisation.
“We have a world-class system of research, and the best and brightest minds are at work each day trying to find solutions to some of the biggest challenges our society faces through applied uses of that research,” he said.
The first round of grants will prioritise projects which align with the following focus areas:
- critical and strategic minerals processing
- sustainable fuels
- digital agriculture
- quantum
- artificial intelligence (AI); and
- advanced manufacturing
“These funding opportunities mean that our universities and our researchers can continue to deliver what Australia needs in terms of translating research into impactful innovation,” Dr Bagshaw added.
Media Contact (not for publication)
Frank Coletta (Director of Public Affairs) m 0468 987 295 e frank.coletta@atn.edu.au