The COVID-19 TechVoucher program provides support funding for technology-rich startups, scaleups or SMEs to collaborate with Publicly Funded Research Organisations (PFRO) to accelerate the commercialisation of innovative R&D products and services that address ongoing disruptions.
Eligible businesses
The program is available to incorporated entities that are start-ups, scaleups or SMEs and have:
- an ABN registered in NSW and are based in NSW
- fewer than 200 employees
- operated for at least 12 months, based on date of ABN registration
- at least $150,000 in sales revenue or operating expenditure within the last 12 months
- at least 75% Australian ownership (and not more than 50% owned by another business)
- propose a technology-based product or service that addresses the impacts of COVID-19
- provide evidence of the ability to co-invest at least 50 per cent of eligible project budget
- demonstrate capability and capacity to complete the TechVoucher project within six months (Stream 1) or 12 months (Stream 2)
- be engaged with an eligible PFRO for R&D collaboration and have obtained a quote
- confirmation that the business holds the rights to commercialise the IP from the project.
Eligible activities
Activities funded by the program include:
- access to research facilities and equipment such as electron microscopes, medical imaging, and other PRFO delivery partner facilities
- product or process design, such as engineering or technical design expertise to determine prototype structure, function or materials
- validating or demonstrating technical capabilities of a product, process or technology including clinical trials and in-market validation
- funding toxicology studies on materials that could be incorporated into a new product
- testing and certification for supply of products
- enhancing existing product capabilities or enabling entry to international markets.
Funding
Funding is available in two streams depending on the size of the R&D project and is matched by the government up to a certain amount.
| Total projected budget | Intended project duration | Matched government contribution | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stream 1: Smaller R & D projects |
$30,000 to $50,000 | Up to six months | Maximum $25,000 |
| Stream 2: Larger R & D projects |
$50,001 to $100,000+ | Up to 12 months | Maximum $50,000 |
A TechVoucher will fund up to 50 per cent of all invoices issued by a PFRO partner to the maximum value of the voucher for each stream.
Funding will be provided for approved projects until the available funding is exhausted or the final deadline for applications.
Status
Applications close on 29 October 2021.
The material contained in this publication is in the nature of general comment and information only and is not advice. The material should not be relied upon. Please contact your local Moore Australia office to discuss your specific circumstances or case. Moore Australia, any Australian Member, any related entity of those persons, or any of their officers employees or representatives, will not be liable for any loss or damage arising out of or in connection with the material contained in this publication.
