Up to $500,000 for Victorian-based projects to develop innovative mRNA-based medicines, enhancing both health and economic outcomes, while building mRNA research capabilities in the state.
On this page you will find
What is the mRNA Victoria Research Acceleration Fund?
The mRNA Victoria Research Acceleration Fund (mVRAF) Round 4 is designed to support and accelerate mRNA-based therapeutics research. Administered by mRNA Victoria and the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions, the program offers funding to Victorian-based projects aiming to develop innovative mRNA-based medicines, enhancing both health and economic outcomes. This fund is part of the Victorian Government’s ongoing investment to build mRNA research capabilities in the state.
mVRAF level of support
The mVRAF Round 4 will offer up to a maximum of $500,000 per project. The total funding available for this round is $1.7 million.
Co-contribution Requirement:
- This grant operates on a 1:1 funding ratio, meaning that for every dollar provided by the grant, the applicant must contribute an equivalent amount, either financially or through in-kind support.
- Co-contributions can come from other Commonwealth Government grants, but not from Victorian Government programs.
For example:
- If the total project cost is $82,000, the grant will cover up to $41,000, and the applicant must provide the remaining $41,000.
- For larger projects, such as one costing $1.2 million, the maximum grant funding would be $500,000, and the applicant would need to contribute $700,000.
mVRAF important dates
- Closing date: 1 November 2024
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
mVRAF objectives
The mVRAF seeks to:
- Support early-stage mRNA-based therapeutics research and advance projects to the proof-of-concept stage faster.
- Increase Victoria’s mRNA-based therapeutic and vaccine candidate pipeline.
- Foster collaboration between universities, research institutes, and industry to translate research into commercially viable products.
Projects and expenditure eligible for mVRAF support
Projects aiming to develop mRNA-based medicines for human use (prophylactic or treatment) are eligible for support. The projects should have a clear pathway for translating research into practical, clinical, or commercial applications.
Ineligible expenditures include:
- Routine operational expenses such as existing staff costs, communication, and office equipment.
- Retrospective funding for activities that have already commenced.
- Legal, accounting fees, and promotional activities like building websites.
- Travel, accommodation, and general consumables.
Please note that projects utilising synthetic RNA approaches are not eligible for funding.
See the guidelines for full details of projects and expenditure eligible for mVRAF support.
Other mRNA Victoria Research Acceleration Fund (mVRAF) important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for mVRAF support
Eligible applicants must:
- Hold an active Australian Business Number (ABN).
- Be an eligible legal entity type such as a company, incorporated association, or a public health service.
- Have relevant insurance policies, including public liability and project insurance.
Ineligible entities include government bodies, unincorporated associations, and individuals.
See the guidelines for full details of organisational requirements.
mVRAF assessment criteria
Applications will be assessed on the following criteria:
1. Research Quality (30%):
- Demonstrates innovative early-stage mRNA research.
- Shows clear benefits for Victoria’s mRNA pipeline and meets unmet medical needs.
- Strong collaboration to progress research towards investment readiness and translational activities.
2. Project Outcomes (25%):
- Defines the impact of the proposed research on Victoria’s mRNA ecosystem.
- Outlines potential pathways to commercialisation or clinical use.
3. Project Feasibility and Delivery (25%):
- Clear project plan, appropriate resources, and co-contribution commitment.
- Strong collaboration with industry or research institutes, and identified risks with mitigation strategies.
4. Ability to Deliver on Time (10%):
- Demonstrates the capability to complete the project within the proposed timeframe.
- Establishes the need for government support to mitigate risks or accelerate timelines.
5. Priority Partners (5%):
- Collaborating with international partners from South Korea, South Africa, or Abu Dhabi will earn additional assessment weight.
6. Promotion of Gender Equality (5%):
- Applicants with project teams consisting of at least 50% women or those led by a woman as Chief Investigator will receive a 5% assessment weighting advantage.
See the guidelines for full details of the assessment criteria.
How do I get the mVRAF?
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.
- Demonstrate a strong alignment with the fund’s objectives
- Provide complete information requirements.
See the guidelines for full details of other requirements.
Information to prepare for the mVRAF application
Applicants should prepare the following documentation:
- Evidence of co-contributions (e.g., bank statements or loan approvals).
- Financial records (audited reports from the past three years or financial projections if less).
- Proof of collaborative partner agreements or letters of support.
See the guidelines for full details of information requirements.
Applying for the mVRAF
Applications are submitted online through the Business Victoria website.
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
mVRAF resources
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