CFAs: Reconciliation Science Engagement Program (Australia)

The Reconciliation Science Engagement grant supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led projects that share STEM knowledge and culture with South Australian audiences. Grants of up to $4,000 in metropolitan Adelaide and $5,000 in regional/remote areas fund one-off or multi-activity projects that inspire public interest in science, celebrate contributions of Australian scientists, and promote inclusive, culturally meaningful engagement.

What is the Reconciliation Science Engagement Grant?

This program provides financial support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led businesses, organisations, or communities to develop and deliver STEM-focused engagement projects.

The goal is to celebrate First Nations STEM knowledge, inspire public interest in science, and foster diversity and inclusion in STEM engagement across South Australia.

The program encourages innovative, culturally meaningful approaches that connect communities with STEM topics, celebrate Australian scientists’ contributions, and engage younger generations.

Key Objectives

Projects funded by this program aim to:

• Provide South Australians with opportunities to learn about STEM

• Celebrate the contributions of Australian scientists

• Inspire youth to explore STEM fields

• Promote innovative engagement methods

• Encourage diversity, inclusion, and First Nations perspectives in STEM

• Share culturally meaningful science knowledge through community-led initiatives

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount:

  • $4,000 for metropolitan Adelaide projects

  • $5,000 for regional and remote South Australia

• Projects can be one-off events or a series of activities

• Multiple applications are allowed for different projects

• Projects previously submitted to the 2026 Inspiring SA grant round are not eligible

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include:

• First Nations-led businesses, organisations, or communities

• Scientists and researchers from universities or industry

• University groups and clubs

• Science communicators and event producers

• Artists and arts organisations

• Community and cultural institutions

• Landcare and citizen science groups

• Local government entities, including libraries

• Schools targeting the general public

• Sole traders

First Nations Requirement

Projects must be designed and delivered with a First Nations person or organisation as a key contributor.

Ineligible Projects

Projects will not be funded if they:

• Are not First Nations-led

• Are part of National Science Week 2026

• Are solely for school students

• Take place outside South Australia

• Request reimbursement for expenses already incurred

Why This Grant Matters

The Reconciliation Science Engagement program:

• Celebrates First Nations STEM knowledge and culture

• Inspires broader community engagement with science

• Promotes inclusive and culturally meaningful STEM experiences

• Encourages innovative approaches to STEM education and outreach

• Supports youth engagement and pathways into STEM careers

How to Apply

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Ensure your project is:

• First Nations-led

• Based in South Australia

• Targeted at the general public

• Not already funded through National Science Week 2026

Step 2: Plan Your Project

Define your project objectives, activities, and outcomes, ensuring they:

• Engage the community with STEM topics

• Include culturally relevant content

• Demonstrate innovation and inclusivity

Step 3: Prepare a Budget

Include all project costs, ensuring they do not exceed:

• $4,000 for metropolitan Adelaide

• $5,000 for regional/remote areas

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Applications are submitted through the official grant platform. Multiple projects may be submitted separately if they meet eligibility criteria.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Clearly highlight First Nations leadership and contribution

• Demonstrate cultural relevance and community impact

• Show innovation in STEM engagement methods

• Include measurable objectives and outcomes

• Prepare a realistic, detailed budget

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting projects not First Nations-led

• Targeting only school students

• Proposing activities outside South Australia

• Requesting funding for already spent costs

• Overlooking cultural relevance or community engagement

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can lead a project for this grant?

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led businesses, organisations, or communities must be key contributors to the project.

2. What types of projects are eligible?

One-off events or a series of activities that engage the public with STEM topics, celebrate scientists, and share First Nations knowledge.

3. What funding amounts are available?

Up to $4,000 for metropolitan Adelaide projects and $5,000 for regional/remote projects.

4. Can projects be submitted more than once?

Yes, multiple applications are allowed for different projects, but projects previously submitted to the 2026 Inspiring SA grant round are ineligible.

5. Are school-focused projects eligible?

No, projects must engage the general public, not solely school students.

6. Can I request reimbursement for past expenses?

No, funding is only available for new project activities, not costs already incurred.

7. Does the project need to occur in South Australia?

Yes, projects must take place within South Australia to qualify.

Conclusion

The Reconciliation Science Engagement grant empowers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to share STEM knowledge with South Australians through culturally meaningful and inclusive projects. By funding innovative engagement activities, the program celebrates First Nations contributions to science, inspires communities, and fosters diversity in STEM.