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NSW Space+ program

The NSW Space+ Program is designed to boost the space industry ecosystem within New South Wales (NSW), creating opportunities for industry, research organisations, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), researchers, and students. The program seeks to drive innovation and business development in emerging, high-value sectors where NSW holds a competitive edge.

Key Dates and Deadlines

  • Application Period: The program is currently open for applications, which must be submitted by 12 PM AEST on August 30, 2024.
  • Project Timeline: Successful projects are expected to begin by November 4, 2024, and must be completed by September 30, 2025.
  • Project Readiness: All funded projects are required to commence within two months of proposal submission to SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) and must be completed within an eleven-month window from the start date.

Program Overview and Grant Amount

Investment NSW has partnered with the SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre to manage this call for project proposals, focusing on fostering the creation, development, and commercialisation of space-related technologies and innovations. The program aims to achieve several objectives:

  • Enhance NSW’s Space Industry Capabilities: By supporting industry growth, the program ensures that NSW remains competitive and innovative in space technology.
  • Foster Integration into Supply Chains: The program seeks to facilitate the development of space technologies that can integrate into both national and international supply chains, providing tangible benefits to end-users.
  • Encourage Scalability and Partnerships: It supports the scalability and growth of NSW’s space industry through national and international collaborations.
  • Broader Societal Contributions: The program also seeks to advance space capabilities that contribute to broader economic, environmental, and social benefits within NSW.

The minimum grant awarded under the program is $250,000 (excluding GST), and the maximum grant amount is $500,000 (excluding GST).

Eligibility Criteria

The NSW Space+ Program is open to both public and private sector organisations, with consortia bids highly encouraged. To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Business Registration: The lead organisation must have an Australian Business Number (ABN), be registered in NSW, and have its headquarters or significant operations within NSW.
  • Non-Tax Exempt: The applying organisation must not be tax-exempt.
  • Australian Financial Institution: The applicant must have an active account with an Australian financial institution.
  • Intellectual Property: Applicants must own the intellectual property (IP) or hold the rights to commercialise the technology proposed in the project.
  • Non-Duplication of Funds: Applicants must demonstrate that no other NSW, state, or federal grants duplicate the activities proposed in the project. The application must show how the grant will provide additional benefits to the proposed activities.
  • Board Support: A letter from the board, chief executive officer, or an equivalent authority must be provided to confirm that the project is supported, that the organisation can complete the project, and that it will cover any costs not funded by the grant.

While contributions from both lead and partner organisations may be used to fund work outside of NSW, the majority of the project’s activities must be carried out within the state. Importantly, applicants do not need to be a SmartSat Partner to apply.

This call is open to a variety of space-related projects, including space products, services, infrastructure development, and projects related to providing a ride to space.

Eligible Costs

Program funding can only be applied to eligible activities or agreed-upon program activities. Costs must:

  • Be directly tied to the funded activities.
  • Be incurred within the project period.
  • Reflect competitive market rates.
  • Provide a true and accurate reflection of the costs required to complete the activity.

Examples of eligible costs include:

  • Base Salaries and On-Costs: This includes salaries for project staff, allowing for superannuation and other direct employment costs.
  • Travel and Transport: Costs for necessary travel, accommodation, meals, and ground transport, provided it is in line with Australian Tax Office (ATO) rates. Travel expenses cannot exceed 10% of the total project costs.
  • Project-Specific Equipment and Software: This covers the purchase and maintenance of equipment, hardware, and software directly related to the project.
  • Staff Training: Training that directly supports the achievement of the project’s outcomes is eligible.
  • Access to Facilities and Data: Costs associated with accessing and maintaining project-specific facilities and data are covered.
  • Workshops and Meetings: Costs for running project-related workshops and meetings are eligible.
  • Contingency Costs: Up to 5% of the project’s total eligible costs can be allocated as contingency.

All applicants are encouraged to thoroughly review the program guidelines to ensure they meet the funding requirements. Proposals must be submitted via email to research.projects@smartsatcrc.com in Word or PDF format.

When you work with us, you minimise risk and effort while receiving the maximum funding. Our areas of expertise with RD grants like the above and the R&D tax incentive are exceptional – request an initial discussion today.

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Stuart Reynolds is the founder of Fullstack Advisory, an award-winning accounting firm for businesses leading the future. He is a 3rd generation accountant who specialises in tech & online companies.

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