2016 NSW Regional Science Grants program now open
Funded by the NSW Department of Industry and the Commonwealth Department of Industry, Innovation and Science, the NSW Regional Science Grants program aims to further develop the network of NSW Regional Science Hubs, local partnerships that bring together multidisciplinary teams to develop and deliver high-profile science events in NSW.
See the NSW Regional Science Hubs Terms of Reference for more information.
Eligibility
Grants are available to initiatives that bring together at least three of the following types of individuals and organisations to create a NSW Regional Science Hub:
- Local scientists
- Local government agencies (e.g. councils, National Parks and Wildlife Service, youth and family services)
- Business associations and chambers of commerce
- Schools, universities and TAFE colleges
- Arts and community organisations
- Local clubs and societies.
First time applicants are advised to check whether there is an existing NSW Regional Science Hub in their region and to make contact with the lead organisation. See the list of current Science Hubs.
All applicants must be committed to either founding or joining their region’s Science Hub. One off events from groups that do not have an intention of continuing to work together in the longer term will not be considered. Initiatives that are collaborative, involve multiple partnerships and can show evidence of other sources of funding towards program of activity will be highly regarded.
Inspiring Australia’s long-term vision for NSW Regional Science Hubs is to build enduring partnerships that in time can become self-sustaining. All grant applicants will therefore be asked to consider how they intend to become self-supporting in the longer term.
Selection criteria
Applicants are encourage to deliver specific initiatives during National Science Week (11-23 August 2016) and also to present ongoing opportunities for science community engagement in their region at other times of the year.
Events and activities run by NSW Regional Science Hubs should have enduring benefits and must meet at least two of the following criteria:
- Inspiring young people to pursue an interest or aptitude in science
- Extending networks and partnership opportunities in the region
- Encouraging community participation and feedback
- Sharing science achievements and knowledge within the local community
- Sustaining science activity without significant future grant funding.
Funding allocations will be decided on merit and the applicant’s ability to meet the selection criteria. First time applicants are encouraged to apply.
Funding amounts
Applicants that meet the selection criteria can apply for funds of $2000 to $10 000 to support the delivery of public science engagement activities in their community.
Download the application form
Applicants seeking funding towards events to be held as part of National Science Week (11-23 August 2016) should complete this application form:
Download form in Word Download form as a PDF
Applicants seeking funding towards events that are NOT part of National Science Week should complete this application form:
Download form in Word Download form as a PDF
Note that applicants applying for funding to support events to be held during National Science Week and additional events to be held at other times of the year should complete two forms. It is possible for applicants to receive funding from both grant pools.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 5:00 PM Monday 4 April 2016
Previous grant recipients
In 2015, grants of just under $80 000 were made to NSW Regional Science Hubs to support science engagement initiatives. Find out more about the 2015 grant recipients.
Further funds of $40 000 have been provided to support 2016 science engagement initiatives that target those aged 18-35. Find out more about the 2016 year round engagement grant recipients.
For further information, please contact Jackie Randles, Manager Inspiring Australia (NSW), on 02 9351 5198 or by email to jackie.randles@sydney.edu.au
