Proof of Concept Funding

The GRDC Proof of Concept Funding program focusses on research activities that provide critical information to give confidence in the potential concept or innovation and facilitates the scoping of future research and development.

Proof of concept activities are a critical step in the development of any innovation. It is at this stage that evidence demonstrating the feasibility of an innovative concept is generated, typically through experimentation or pilot projects. Proof of concept investments are usually time-sensitive, relatively low in capital and set the scene for future development plans, typically involving a significant increase in the financial resources as well as technical sophistication required to take the innovation all the way to adoption and impact.

Example eligible activities include:

· in planta proof of concept studies in relevant models;

· controlled environment trials, in-silico modelling;

· pest management methods/technology in situ; and

· analysis to support future investment decisions such as use-case analysis, and feasibility studies.

The Proof of Concept Funding will also seek to support cross industry/discipline technology translation activities to encourage the application of existing research and development from adjacent industries, within the grains industry.

Strategic Alignment

GRDC welcomes proposals in all Focus Areas identified in GRDC’s Research, Development & Extension Plan 2023-28. The alignment with GRDC’s strategy will be considered as part of the evaluation criteria.

Activities must be supported by a plan for research and development activities to realise the concept and deliver the benefits to Australian grain growers.