GCI Proof-of-concept Funding Scheme

Turning groundbreaking ideas into real-world impact.

This scheme is to support researchers within the medtech field who are employed by the University of Melbourne across different faculties to translate their research into viable commercialisation projects or start-ups. It is intended to help cover the gap between intellectual property disclosures and spin-out or licensing, where there is a compelling case for enhancing the commercial potential of a foreseeable product or service. The Graeme Clark Institute POC Fund can also be utilised to secure matching funds against appropriate grant funding schemes.

Funding: $10,000 - $60,000

Guidelines

For more information, please refer to the Information Sheet on the scholarship scheme.

Guidelines

Further general guidelines with eligibility criteria can be found at: https://research.unimelb.edu.au/commercialisation/researchers/explore-funding-to-develop-your-idea/proof-of-concept-fund.

Apply

This scheme is currently closed to 2025 Applications.
Please refer to Critical Dates for approximate 2026 dates for this scheme.

Critical Dates

7 April 2026

ROUND 1
Expression of Interest (EOI) Applications Open

4 May 2026
5pm

ROUND 1
Expression of Interest (EOI) Applications Close

Late May 2026

ROUND 1
Expression of Interest (EOI) Outcome Announced

Late May - Mid June 2026

ROUND 2
Full Application Open

Early July 2026

ROUND 2
Full Application Outcome Announced

Enquiries:

Enquiries and EOIs to be sent to Minh Nguyen, Institute Centre Manager at nguyen.m@unimelb.edu.au.