Funding of up to $250,000 is available to support trade-exposed industries to strengthen Australia’s economic engagements by modernising Free Trade Agreements with Southeast Asian nations.
Current status of program
CLOSED
To register your interest in future rounds or discuss alternative grant opportunities please contact us here.
On this page you will find
What is the Southeast Asia FTAs Modernisation Grant?
The Southeast Asia FTAs Modernisation Grant Program, administered by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, is a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing Australia’s economic engagements through the modernisation of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with Southeast Asian nations.
This program supports Australian industries exposed to trade by providing funding to identify opportunities and recommend enhancements for Australia’s network of FTAs, facilitating greater economic integration and cooperation in the region.
Southeast Asia FTAs Modernisation Grant level of support
The Australian Government has committed a total of $1,750,000 over two years to fund this grant program.
- Minimum funding amount: $100,000
- Maximum funding amount: $250,000
- Notably, co-contributions from organisations are strongly encouraged and generally expected to comprise between 25% to 50% of the project costs, ensuring commitment and alignment with the objectives of the grant.
Southeast Asia FTAs Modernisation Grant important dates
- This program is currently closed
- Register your interest with GrantHelper
Southeast Asia FTAs Modernisation Grant objectives
The program aims to:
- Inform the Australian government’s trade and investment strategies towards Southeast Asia up to 2040.
- Prioritise the modernisation and enhancement of FTAs, addressing current and potential trade and investment barriers.
- Facilitate the liberalisation of trade and investment policies to boost economic ties within the region.
Projects and expenditure eligible for Southeast Asia FTAs Modernisation Grant support
Eligible activities must directly relate to the outcomes intended by the grant and may include:
- Quantitative and qualitative research.
- Stakeholder engagement and strategy development.
- Creation of informational products to aid government decisions.
Ineligible Expenditures:
- Costs not directly related to the program’s execution, such as capital expenditures, business-as-usual salaries, and overhead costs are not supported.
See the guidelines for full details of projects and expenditure eligible for funding.
Other Southeast Asia FTAs Modernisation Grant important details that you will need to know
Organisations eligible for Southeast Asia FTAs Modernisation Grant support
Eligible applicants include:
- Australian incorporated entities
- Publicly funded research organisations
- Not-for-profits and charities
- Industry bodies and associations
Entities must have an ABN, be registered for GST, and hold an account with an Australian financial institution.
See the guidelines for full details of organisational requirements.
Southeast Asia FTAs Modernisation Grant assessment criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Alignment with the modernisation of in-force FTAs (20%)
- Relevance to the export of goods, services, or investment (20%)
- Potential to enhance FTAs and identify trade barriers (40%)
- Strategic foresight towards 2040 trade priorities (20%)
See the guidelines for full details of the assessment criteria.
How do I get the Southeast Asia FTAs Modernisation Grant?
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.
Information to prepare for the Southeast Asia FTAs Modernisation Grant application
Prepare the following:
- Business case
- Project management plan
- Indicative budget
- Evidence of board or executive support
See the guidelines for full details of information requirements.
Applying for the Southeast Asia FTAs Modernisation Grant
Applications can be submitted through the SmartyGrants platform.
Register your interest with GrantHelper to explore your alignment with this grant and how we can assist you to increase your chances of success.
Southeast Asia FTAs Modernisation Grant resources
Is Your Business Eligible for This Government Grant?
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