Through its Research Strategy, UTS is committed to driving impactful research that addresses global challenges. A powerful way we achieve this is through our participation in Australia's Cooperative Research Centres (CRC) program.
Cooperative Research Centre – Project (CRC-P) funding
While CRCs are typically funded for ten years, Cooperative Research Centres Project (CRC-P) grants provide funding for short-term research collaborations to develop a new technology, product or service. Industry-led research collaborations can apply for matched funding between $100,000 and $3 million for up to three years.
Apply for CRC-P Round 17
Round 17 of the CRC-P funding scheme is now open, with applications due by 20 March 2025. Supporting industry-led research projects for up to three years, the scheme requires that:
- Project goals are short-term, clear and address an industry problem
- Project is led by an industry partner rather than UTS
- Project partners must each contribute, including at least one small-to-medium enterprise
- Industry cash support is available to match Commonwealth funding of between $100K and $3M.
Projects must also align to one, or both, of these national priorities:
- National Reconstruction Fund priorities, providing a clear value-add in resources, agriculture, forestry and fisheries, transport, medical science, renewables and low emission technologies defence and enabling capabilities.
- National Science & Research priorities, transitioning to a net zero future, supporting healthy and thriving communities, elevating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders knowledge systems, protecting and restoring Australia’s environment and building a secure and resilient nation.
Learn more about the CRC-P scheme.
Taking new products to market
“The CRC-P provided a unique opportunity to see what it would take to translate our research into real-world applications,” said Associate Professor Alireza Fini from the UTS School of Built Environment.
Alireza, with his cofounder Soroush Maghsoudi of OZ Build Construction, invented a new type of dowel-laminated timber (DLT) panelling that can withstand the structural load of a building. This partnership has now extended to another three companies and attracted $7.5 million over four years in CRC-P funding to establish an advanced manufacturing facility to produce the products.
The team are also looking at using robotics and automation in innovative ways by working as part of the ARC Research Hub for Human-Robot Teaming for Sustainable and Resilient Construction.
Alireza said that it can sometimes be a challenge to move hand in hand with industry partners to reach objectives set at the outset.
“It takes many people to commercialise a research idea, and you need help from both academic and research office colleagues to assist you in getting there,” he said. “Despite challenges, the entire process from application until now has been enjoyable.”
It’s the shared vision between Alireza and Soroush that continues to drive their innovation forward. Read more about their collaboration that led to CRC-P funding.
Interested in applying?
Attend the CRC-P Information Session from 3.30pm - 5.00pm on Thursday 27 February 2025.
If this opportunity sounds interesting, ask your Faculty Research Manager for support to create a Notice of Intent. You should also connect with Business Research Engagement Manager Peter Loneragan.
To be competitive in this round you must:
- Develop a clear and well-articulated ‘elevator pitch’ that explains the industry problem and your proposed solutions.
- Follow the application guidelines and criteria, avoid repetition and provide sufficient detail/clarity against all criteria. Don’t leave gaps for assumptions.
- Outline essential activities to be undertaken clearly. Details such as IP and governance need identification prior to application.
- Check the application before submission allowing enough time for corrections and form validation.
UTS teams are advised to submit applications to the Research Office as early as possible to allow for feedback.
Key dates
27 February 2025 | Notice of intent. Contact Research Office or your Faculty Research Manager for support |
14 March 2025 | MyProjects deadline. Full Proposal sent to Research Office |
20 March 2025, 5pm | Submissions due |
What’s next?
Learn about UTS and the Cooperative Research Centre Program.
Feature images shows Associate Professor Alireza Fini from the UTS School of Built Environment whose research is making timber products more affordable and environmentally friendly.