4 March 2015: Researchers from the University of Canberra and The Australian National University (ANU) will have access to additional funding to assist them in turning their discoveries into real-world applications.
The Discovery Translation Fund (DTF) offers researchers whose work shows great potential for commercialisation, access up to $50,000 in support funding out of a total pool of $3 million over three years, to take their discovery to the marketplace.
The jointly funded program DTF2.0 will be launched at the University of Canberra TOMORROW with researchers invited to submit expressions of interest from launch.
Since 2011, DTF has assisted more than 30 projects take work from the lab to the world.
Previous projects have included water and energy conservation in domestic settings, miniaturisation of dielectric materials for use in supercapacitors and work on therapeutics targeting breast cancer recurrence.
The new program will be managed by ANU Connect Ventures and will grow innovation and enterprise within the Canberra region.
University of Canberra Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Frances Shannon said the program is a great opportunity for those who are thinking about making the most of their research through a commercial venture.
"Many researchers reach a point after making their discovery where they need some assistance in taking the next big step. DTF2.0 will set them on the right path, giving them some much needed financial assistance and hopefully making all the difference between great research and a viable business venture," Professor Shannon said.
ANU Pro-Vice Chancellor (Innovation) Professor Mick Cardew-Hall said the program would help turn innovative ideas into reality, and will continue to be a key contributor to demonstrating the commercial impact of research.
"Proof of concept funding is essential for bridging the gap between a discovery and its application, but a program such as DTF 2.0 also establishes a targeted focus for project development, ensuring research is applied where the market and community will see greatest value," Professor Cardew-Hall said.
DTF2.0 funding grants are awarded competitively, must have identifiable commercial potential and be completed within 12 to 18 months.
WHAT: Discovery Translation Fund 2.0 Launch
WHEN: Thursday 5 March, 9:30am
WHERE: University of Canberra Sporting Commons, Building 29, University Drive North, University of Canberra (campus map)
MEDIA PLEASE NOTE: Past recipients of DTF assistance will share their stories during the launch.
Media Contact
University of Canberra – Marcus Butler – T: 02 6206 2519 or Claudia Doman - T: 02 6206 8677 M: 0408 826 362
The Australian National University – James Grubel - T: 02 6125 7979