Supported by the Australian Government, Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) Grants are designed to fund collaborations that address problems identified by industry, and support medium- to long-term, industry-led collaborative research for up to 10 years. While there is no fixed funding cap for each CRC, the typical value pool ranges between $30 and $40 million. The number of CRC Grants awarded in each selection round is determined by the applications received and the funding available.
The aim is to enable industry players to collaborate with universities, researchers, and other organisations to tackle significant industry issues and develop practical, impactful solutions.
While grant applications are open to all industry sectors, research disciplines and community sectors, there are eligibility requirements to keep in mind, such as being able to at least match the grant funding and for the collaboration to include an industry-focused education and training program element.
Round 26 of the CRC Grants is now open, offering businesses the chance to secure funding for medium to long-term, industry-led research collaborations. Applications close on 29 April 2025. Find out more on the Cooperative Research Centre website or contact La Trobe Enterprise.
If you're bidding, considering a bid, or simply curious about the CRC opportunities, here's a quick reminder of the ways your business can gain from this partnership:
- Tailor-made solutions for business needs: CRCs are designed to industry-led and address industry-driven challenges. By collaborating with a university, your business can co-create targeted, practical solutions that directly enhance your operations, improve efficiency, and explore new market opportunities
- Unlock access to top-tier talent and expertise: Universities are home to some of the brightest minds in research and innovation. Partnering with a university through a CRC connects your business with leading researchers and experts, enabling you to harness their knowledge to address your specific challenges and opportunities
- Maximise ROI with shared costs: CRC projects involve shared funding and resources among participants, including government support. This cost-sharing approach helps businesses achieve substantial outcomes while optimising their investment in research and development
- Leverage cutting-edge research facilities: Universities often boast state-of-the-art facilities – such as La Trobe’s Bio Innovation Hub and Digital Innovation Hub – and resources that may not be accessible to many businesses. A CRC partnership allows your company to utilise these advanced tools and technologies without incurring the high cost of establishing them in-house
- Access government support and incentives: CRCs benefit from significant Australian Government funding, providing a valuable opportunity for your business to amplify its research initiatives while benefiting from public investment
- Increase your competitive advantage through innovation: Universities are at the forefront of innovation, and a CRC partnership can fast-track your access to emerging technologies, breakthrough methodologies, and innovative strategies. This can position your business as a leader in your field
- Future-proof your workforce: Through collaboration with a university, your business can tap into opportunities for workforce development. This includes access to training and upskilling programmes such as La Trobe’s short courses and microcredentials, as well as building a pipeline of talented graduates through initiatives like La Trobe Talent, ready to bring fresh perspectives to your organisation
- Strengthen your brand and build long-term relationships: Collaborating with a university enhances your business’ reputation as an innovator and a leader in your industry. It also fosters lasting partnerships with other organisations, ensuring ongoing collaboration, knowledge exchange, and sustained growth.
These grants are part of the CRC Program, which works to support industry, research and the community in two ways:
- CRC Grants, as outlined above – support medium to long term industry-led collaborative research, for up to 10 years
- CRC Projects (CRC-P) grants – support short-term, industry-led collaborative research, for up to 3 years. Find out more about CRC-Ps here or contact La Trobe Enterprise Development.
To discuss potential grant opportunities with La Trobe University, please get in touch with the University’s Enterprise Development team at enterprise.dev@latrobe.edu.au
For general enquiries or more information, please contact industry.engagement@latrobe.edu.au
