Request for Proposals: MS Australia Incubator Grant Program (New Zealand)

The MS Australia Incubator Grant Program provides up to $25,000 in seed funding for early-stage innovative research on multiple sclerosis (MS). The grants support preliminary data collection to strengthen future research proposals, with projects expected to be completed within one year.

Program Overview

The Incubator Grant is designed to accelerate early-stage, innovative research by providing seed funding to generate preliminary data that can underpin larger future grants. It enables researchers to test novel ideas, collect initial findings, and establish feasibility for subsequent studies.

Key Objectives

• Support early-stage, innovative research on MS

• Generate preliminary data for future grant applications

• Complete proposed research within one year of funding

Grant Amount & Use

• Maximum Funding: $25,000 per project

• Duration: 1 year

• Eligible Costs:

  • Project-related expenses

  • Consumables and materials

  • Personnel essential to the research

• Excluded Costs:

  • Travel

  • Conference attendance

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident (permanent residency must be confirmed by grant start)

• Conduct research at an Australian research institution

• Demonstrate relevant research experience

• Commit to completing the project within one year

Application Process & Timeline

• Round 1 Applications Open: Until 6 March 2026

• Round 1 Funding Start: August or September 2026

• Round 2 Funding Start: January 2027 (applications follow separate timeline)

Applicants must submit a detailed research proposal demonstrating the innovative nature, feasibility, and potential impact of their project.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Clearly articulate the novelty and innovation of the research

• Provide a realistic plan for generating preliminary data within one year

• Include a detailed budget specifying how funds will support essential project components

• Demonstrate the project’s relevance to MS research and potential for future funding

Conclusion

The MS Australia Incubator Grant is an ideal opportunity for researchers at early stages of innovative MS studies to obtain seed funding, establish preliminary results, and strengthen their potential for larger-scale research funding. Completing a high-quality, data-driven project within the one-year timeframe can significantly enhance future grant competitiveness.