South Australian Space Collaboration and Innovation Fund

The South Australian Space Industry Centre, in collaboration with the Defence Innovation Partnership, has launched a new grant fund to support the development of innovative South Australian space capability.

The South Australian Space Collaboration and Innovation Fund aims to support the rapid transition of space technology to operational use while growing the South Australian space ecosystem through international collaboration.

Two grants of up to $100,000 each, will be available for the first round of the Fund, matched by a co-contribution from applicants, to support projects that focus on proof-of-concept or delivery of space capability and have a clear commercial pathway.

We are seeking applications from South Australian-based start-ups or SMEs in collaboration with at least one international partner organisation, with an emphasis on NewSpace technology.

Minimum requirements:

  • at least one South Australian-based industry organisation (start-up or SME)
  • at least one international Partner Organisation.

The Lead Organisation must be a South Australian-based start-up or SME.

Minimum requirements for matched funding:

  • 1:1 matched funding (cash or in-kind). ie. applicants must contribute at least $1 for every $1 funded.
  • comprise a minimum 10% cash (the International Partner Organisation is required to contribute to the matched funding element (financial or in-kind).

Co-contributions from applicants may be used to fund work outside of South Australia, however the majority of the overall project effort must take place in South Australia.

Applications for the South Australian Space Collaboration and Innovation Fund are now open and will close at 5.00pm ACST on 17 May 2024.

Application forms must be submitted via the online form Late submissions will not be accepted.

For detailed information on the fund assessment and application process:

To submit your application:

  • 4 April 2024 – Grant fund announced
  • 15 April 2024 – Application portal opens
  • 23 April 2024 – Online information session
  • 17 May 2024 – Applications close
  • May – June 2024 – Assessment period
  • June 2024 – Applicants notified of outcome

What is the maximum number of participants a proposal can have?
There is no maximum number of organisations that can partner in a project application. However, the lead applicant must be a South Australian small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) or start-up and there must be at least one international partner.

Can lead applicants partner with interstate organisations and universities?
Yes, the lead applicant can partner with industry and/or universities in other Australian states or territories. Minimum eligibility requirements are for one international partner organisation and the lead applicant must be South Australian-based.

What types or organisations are eligible to participate as the international partner?
International Partner Organisations can be from government, industry or academia.

What is the matched funding requirement?
Matched 1:1 funding is required of up to $100,000 per application. A minimum of 10% must be contributed as cash. Examples of in-kind contributions include staff time, use of specialised equipment and resources.

Does the total Fund amount include GST?
No, the Funding amount is exclusive of GST.

Who owns the IP generated?
Ownership of the Intellectual Property (IP) developed using the funds will be retained by the successful applicants. Project team partners are encouraged to discuss background and foreground IP arrangements early in the proposal development process.

How is an SME defined for this Fund?
For the purpose of this Fund, an SME is defined in accordance with the Australian Bureau of Statistics definition. This defines an SME as an organisation with less than 200 full-time equivalent employees.

Can I speak to someone about my proposal?
Queries about the Fund can be emailed to spaceoffice@sa.gov.au at any time.

Applicants can also request to speak with a representative of the Fund team to discuss their proposals and ask specific questions. This option is available to anyone interested in applying for the Fund.

Please include ‘South Australian Space Collaboration and Innovation Fund – (nature of the enquiry)’ in the subject line. A response will be provided within three business days.

What types of projects are eligible for funding eg. products or services?
Both product and service innovations are applicable for this Fund.

The South Australian Space Collaboration and Innovation Fund aims to support the rapid transition of space technology to operational use while growing the South Australian space ecosystem through international collaboration.

Can my organisation be involved in multiple proposals?
Yes, organisations can be involved in multiple proposals. However, individual organisations can only be the lead applicant on one proposal. They can participate as a partner in additional applications.

For any queries, email spaceoffice@sa.gov.au.

Please include ‘South Australian Space Collaboration and Innovation Fund – (nature of the enquiry)’ in the subject line. A response will be provided within three business days.