iLaunch Trailblazer’s fast track commercialisation grants

In a boost for the Australian space industry, the iLAuNCH Trailblazer has announced a further $1 million in funding to accelerate university research towards commercialisation.

Part of the $180 million Trailblazer program, the iLAuNCH Accelerator’s Fast Track fund provides seed funding for proof-of-concept demonstrator technologies with long-term commercial prospects.

Fast Track will provide funding pathways for early-stage (TRL 3-4) commercialisation activities with the University of Southern Queensland, The Australian National University and the University of South Australia to demonstrate the concept and market needs for space developments.

Fast track was announced at the 17th Andy Thomas Australian Space Forum in Adelaide.

The Executive Director of iLAuNCH Trailblazer Darin Lovett said: “We have a mandate under Trailblazer to commercialise Australian R&D and promote industry collaboration.

“Together with our three universities, we will showcase world-class Australian research and capacity adding to the over $100 million already committed in projects over the last year.”

Fast Track is designed to bridge the funding gap for effective translation and commercialisation of intellectual property, according to iLauNCH.

Through industry partnerships, iLAuNCH will help secure follow-on funding and licencing opportunities.

Grants of up to $100,000 for each project will be awarded to game-changing ideas, proposals and activities with a space technology that demonstrates commercial potential.

In addition to funding, successful applicants will also be enrolled in the iLAuNCH ON Prime programme run twice yearly by CSIRO, and have access to mentoring by space industry experts.

All proposals must demonstrate a clear roadmap for growing space research capabilities, aligning with national and international priorities, and meeting the space industry’s future needs.

The first round of Fast Track applications is now open until 30 November 2024.

Picture: iLauNCH Trailblazer