Up to $1 million available to help SMEs address cybersecurity issues, focusing on verifying Australian Government information amid challenges from generative AI and misinformation threats.
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What is the Business Research and Innovation Initiative (BRII) – Australian Cyber Security Strategy Challenge
The Business Research and Innovation Initiative (BRII) – Australian Cyber Security Strategy Challenge offers small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) the opportunity to innovate solutions to pressing government challenges. This round focuses on addressing cybersecurity concerns, particularly validating the authenticity of Australian Government information in an era of generative AI and misinformation.
There will be two grant opportunities as part of this program:
- Stage 1 – Feasibility grant opportunity: The purpose of the Feasibility grant is to test the technical and commercial viability of your proposed solutions to the challenge.
- Stage 2 – Proof of Concept grant opportunity: The purpose of the Proof of Concept grant is to support you to build on your Feasibility project and produce working prototypes or demonstrations.
BRII-Australian Cyber Security Strategy Challenge level of support
Stage 1: Feasibility Grants
- Minimum Funding: $50,000
- Maximum Funding: $100,000
- Co-Contribution Required: Applicants are responsible for any remaining eligible or ineligible project costs beyond the grant funding provided.
Stage 2: Proof of Concept Grants
- Minimum Funding: $250,000
- Maximum Funding: $1,000,000
- Co-Contribution Required: As with Stage 1, any additional project costs not covered by the grant must be borne by the applicant.
BRII-Australian Cyber Security Strategy Challenge important dates
- Stage 1 Applications Close: 5:00 PM AEDT, 18 December 2024
- Stage 2 Opening Date: 13 November 2025
- Stage 2 Closing Date: 8 January 2026
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
BRII-Australian Cyber Security Strategy Challenge objectives
- Strengthen public trust in government information.
- Improve detection and mitigation of AI-driven misinformation.
- Enhance cybersecurity strategies for generative AI environments.
Projects eligible for BRII-Australian Cyber Security Strategy Challenge support
Eligible Expenditures
- Testing technical and commercial feasibility (Stage 1).
- Developing working prototypes and demonstrations (Stage 2).
- Labour costs directly related to the project.
- Contracting external expertise.
- Travel costs, up to 10% of the total budget, where necessary for project activities.
Ineligible Expenditures
- Routine operating costs, such as utilities and office supplies.
- Costs incurred before grant approval.
- Interest and other financing costs.
- Capital purchases such as furniture or vehicles.
- Non-project-specific staff training or professional development.
Other BRII-Australian Cyber Security Strategy Challenge important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for BRII-Australian Cyber Security Strategy Challenge support
- Australian SMEs with an annual turnover below $20 million.
- Applicants must have an Australian Business Number (ABN).
- Stage 2 applicants must successfully complete Stage 1 Feasibility.
BRII-Australian Cyber Security Strategy Challenge assessment criteria
Stage 1: Feasibility Grants
1. Extent to which the solution meets the challenge (30 points):
- Demonstrate innovation and alignment with the problem.
- Highlight differentiation from existing market solutions.
2. Market Opportunity (30 points):
- Outline commercial potential and a delivery plan.
- Provide a preliminary market analysis.
3. Capacity, Capability, and Resources (40 points):
- Detail past project experience and expertise.
- Address risk management, including cybersecurity risks.
Stage 2: Proof of Concept Grants
1. Extent to which the solution meets the challenge (30 points):
- Address findings from Stage 1 and further refine the solution.
- Include social, environmental, and economic benefits.
2. Market Opportunity (30 points):
- Provide a detailed commercialisation plan, including market size, customer types, and intellectual property strategy.
3. Capacity, Capability, and Resources (40 points):
- Highlight team expertise, project infrastructure, and risk management strategies.
Applicants must achieve at least 50% for each criterion to be eligible for funding.
How do I get the BRII-Australian Cyber Security Strategy Challenge?
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 BRII-Australian Cyber Security Strategy Challenge application
1. Mandatory Attachments:
- Project Plan (max. 10 pages for Stage 1; 15 for Stage 2).
- Risk Strategy Document.
- Financial Turnover Declaration.
- Feasibility Report (for Stage 2 only).
2. Additional Documents:
- Commercialisation Plan (Stage 2).
- Letters of Support for consortia applications.
Applying for the BRII-Australian Cyber Security Strategy Challenge
Applications must be submitted through the BRII portal.
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
BRII-Australian Cyber Security Strategy Challenge resources
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