Science engagement grants

NSW Regional Science Grants program

Each year, Inspiring Australia (NSW) offers funding to NSW stakeholders to deliver high- profile community events during National Science Week and at other times of the year.

These grants have enabled NSW to grow its statewide National Science week offering while also allowing NSW Regional Science Hubs to deliver entertaining programing throughout the year.

The NSW Science Grants program is funded by the NSW Department of Industry and the Commonwealth Department of Industry, Innovation and Science. It aims to develop the network of NSW Regional Science Hubs – local partnerships that bring together multidisciplinary teams to develop and deliver high-profile STEM engagement programs in NSW.

Download the NSW Regional Science Hubs Terms of Reference

2018 NSW Science Grants now open

Inspiring Australia (NSW) seeks expressions of interest for community proposals that inspire youth, extend networks, encourage public participation and share scientific achievements with the community. Note that these grants are NOT to support programs delivered by schools.

Four types of funding are now on offer as set out below. Please be sure to read the program guidelines before submitting an application.

All applicants must demonstrate how they intend to measure the success of their event.

1. Sydney Science Festival

Expressions of interest are invited from large scale presenters to apply for up to $20,000 towards events presented as part of Sydney Science Festival (9-19 August 2018) that have the potential to attract at least 3,000 people.

The purpose of this funding is to increase participation in Sydney Science Festival and attract new audiences by providing free, family-friendly events in the Greater Sydney region.

Applicants must demonstrate sound experience in delivering large, free events, have access to public transort and/or adequate car parking space and amenities and proven ability to cater to large crowds.

Presenters intending to apply for this funding are strongly encouraged to attend a Sydney Science Festival event presenter briefing on Monday 12 March 2018.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 5:00PM Wednesday 18 April 2018

2. National Science Week

Expressions of interest are invited from NSW-based organisations requesting support of up to $10,000 for National Science Week events delivered in partnership with Science Hubs in Sydney and in regional communities.

The purpose of this funding is to increase participation in National Science Week and sustain the network of NSW Regional Science Hubs.

All applicants must be willing to join an established Science Hub or establish a new Science Hub in their region. Ony one grant per region will be allocated and one-off events will not be considered. See Sponsorship Grants below for information about how to request funding to support one-off events.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 5:00PM Wednesday 18 April 2018

3. Events outside Science Week

Expressions of interest are invited from NSW-based organisations requesting support of up to $10,000 for events delivered by Science Hubs in Sydney and in regional communities outside of the Science Week period.

All applicants must be willing to join an established Science Hub or establish a new Science Hub in their region. Ony one grant per region will be allocated and one-off events will not be considered. See Sponsorship Grants below for information about how to request funding to support one-off events.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 5:00PM Wednesday 18 April 2018

4. Sponsorship of one-off events

Expressions of interest are invited from NSW-based organisations for sponsorship of up to $10,000 for one-off events delivered by high-profile presenters that have the potential to attract large audiences.

Applications are subject to Inspiring Australia’s NSW Sponsorship Guidelines.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 5:00PM Wednesday 18 April 2018

Previous NSW grant recipients

Find out about the 2017 science grant recipients.
Find out about the 2017 year round grant recipients.
Find out about the 2016 science grant recipients
Find out about the 2015 science grant recipients.

National Science Week 2018

National Science Week 2018 runs from 11–19 August and the Australian Government is offers Inspiring Australia grants of up to $20,000 for individuals, community groups, universities, research institutions and other organisations interested in holding events. National Science Week grants also provide $500 to schools to conduct activities.

Read about the 2018 grant recipients

Inspiring Australia Science Engagement Program

Funded by the Commonwealth Department of Industry, Innovation and Science, the Inspiring Australia Science Engagement Program supports a range of science  engagement activities to inspire, motivate and cultivate a scientifically engaged community across Australia.

It includes:

For more information read the  Program Guidelines (PDF; 276.32 KB).