Grants up to $300,000 to support collaborative research projects that address challenges or opportunities of relevance to research end-users, including industry, government, and non-profit organisations.
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What is the ARC Linkage Projects Grant?
The Linkage Projects Grant (LPG) is an initiative under the Australian Research Council’s (ARC) Linkage Program. It aims to support collaborative research projects that address challenges or opportunities of relevance to research end-users, including industry, government, and non-profit organisations. The grant encourages partnerships between higher education institutions and these end-users to generate new knowledge and innovations that benefit Australia economically, socially, and culturally.
ARC Linkage Projects Grants level of support
The Linkage Projects Grant provides funding ranging from $50,000 to $300,000 per year, with the duration of funding spanning from two to five consecutive years.
This level of support is designed to enhance the scale and focus of research efforts, especially in areas aligned with the Australian Government’s priority sectors.
ARC Linkage Projects Grants important dates
- Round 1 closing date: 26 March 2025
- Round 2 opening date: 27 March 2025
- Round 2 closing date: 25 June 2025
- Register your interest
ARC Linkage Projects Grants objectives and outcomes
The primary objectives of the Linkage Projects scheme are to:
- Support internationally competitive research projects that address challenges or opportunities relevant to research end-users.
- Foster the establishment and strengthening of research alliances between higher education institutions and research end-users.
- Enhance the scale and focus of research, particularly in Australian Government priority areas.
Activities and expenditure eligible for ARC Linkage Projects Grants support
Projects eligible for the Linkage Projects Grant must involve collaboration between an Eligible Organisation (typically a higher education institution) and at least one Partner Organisation, which can be an industry, government, or non-profit entity. The project should aim to produce significant outcomes in terms of new knowledge, innovations, or practical applications that benefit the end-users and Australia as a whole.
Grant funds can be used for: salaries for research personnel, stipends for Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students, equipment, travel costs essential to the project, and other eligible expenditures directly supporting the project.
Grant funds cannot be used for: medical research (as defined by the ARC), infrastructure or projects already funded by other Commonwealth grants, and basic facilities like office space and standard computer equipment.
Applications must include at least one Partner Organisation that matches the total funding requested with cash and/or in-kind contributions.
See the guidelines for full details of eligible activities and expenditure.
Other ARC Linkage Projects Grants important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for ARC Linkage Projects Grants support
Eligible Organisations are primarily higher education institutions listed in the ARC guidelines. Partner Organisations can be Australian or overseas entities, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria and contribute significantly to the project.
ARC Linkage Projects Grants asessment criteria
Applications for the Linkage Projects Grant are assessed based on four weighted criteria:
- Project Quality and Innovation (30%)
- Impact (20%)
- Investigator(s’) Capability and Quality of Team (20%)
- Strength of the Proposed Research Alliance (30%)
These criteria evaluate the significance of the research, the potential benefits to Australia, the capability of the research team, and the strength of the collaboration.
How do I get the ARC Linkage Projects Grants?
The application process involves completing the necessary forms, addressing the assessment criteria, and ensuring that all eligibility requirements are met.
Applicants must:
- Read and understand the guidelines.
- Ensure eligibility for the funding. Applicants that do not meet all the eligibility criteria will not be considered.
- Deliver the project as outlined in the application.
- Provide complete information requirements.
Information to prepare for the ARC Linkage Projects Grants application
The application form consists of seven parts:
- Administrative Summary
- Classifications and Other Statistical Information
- Project Eligibility
- Project Description
- Participant Details including ROPE
- Project Cost
- Partner Organisation Details
See the guidelines for full details of information requirements.
Applying for the ARC Linkage Projects Grants
Applications are submitted via the ARC’s Research Management System (RMS).
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
ARC Linkage Projects Grants resources
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