The grant round for National Science Week 2014 is about to open.

The round has a total value of $500 000. There are already two grants of $10 000 each (they are 3-year grants from 2012) so there is a total of $480 000 still available. Grants may be awarded between $2000 and $25 000.

The grant selection committee will be looking for innovative ideas that help engage new audiences in a wide range of locations in different facets of science, technology, maths and engineering. Partnerships are held in high regard, as is co-investment that leverages the value of the grant funds.

The 2014 Grant Guidelines have the same eligibility, criteria and funding restrictions as this year. Among other things, projects must be science engagement events, be held in National Science Week and must not include requests for the grant to fund internal salary, project management, capital items or catering.

Here is a sample grant funding agreement – your organisation needs to be comfortable with the standard clauses in the agreement before you apply. We also have a sample application for a simple National Science Week project, as well as FAQs.

Last year we put together some tips for applicants – they are still relevant now and will help you write a better application. The key message is that each year about 10% of the applications are ineligble, and only about half of the eligible ones receive any funding.

The round will be open for applications from 0900 AEST, Tuesday 1 October to 1600 AEDT, Thursday 24 October.

Good luck!