MS Australia is accepting applications for Round 2 of its 2026 Incubator Grant Program, offering seed funding to researchers at the early stages of innovative multiple sclerosis research. The programme is designed to help investigators generate the preliminary data needed to compete for larger, future grant opportunities.
About the MS Australia Incubator Grant
MS Australia administers this grant to advance scientific knowledge around multiple sclerosis by supporting feasibility studies and proof-of-concept research. The programme runs up to two funding rounds per calendar year, with each round assessed by Australia’s Research Management Council or qualified reviewers nominated by the Council. Grants are awarded based on scientific merit, feasibility, and the strength of the preliminary data strategy.
Funding Size
- Up to AUD 25,000 per project
- Duration: one year from grant commencement date
- Covers consumables, materials, and personnel directly supporting the project
- Travel and conference attendance are not covered
Who Can Apply
- Australian or New Zealand citizens or permanent residents, with permanent residency confirmed by the time the grant commences
- Researchers must be undertaking work at an Australian research institution
- Applicants must have demonstrated research experience
- Individual researchers apply, not institutions
Geographic Eligibility
- Australia and New Zealand
Read Also: Global Good Fund Fellowship Program 2027 – Apply Now
Sector or Thematic Focus
- Multiple sclerosis research
- Early-stage and exploratory MS science
- Feasibility studies and proof-of-concept investigations
- Projects generating preliminary data to support future competitive grant applications
Application Process
Applications are submitted through the MS Australia Grant Application Portal. Applicants must complete the online form, upload a research plan using the provided template, and attach an abbreviated CV of up to four pages for the chief investigator. Co-applicants may submit up to two pages each. Once a Grant Officer has approved the submission, it is automatically lodged. All received applications are acknowledged, then assigned to a reviewer who provides comments, a funding recommendation, and an overall score.
Read Also: Global South AI Safety Hackathon 2026 – Apply Now
Required Materials
- Completed online application form via the MS Australia Grant Portal
- Research plan using the official MS Australia template
- Abbreviated CV of up to four pages for the chief investigator
- Co-applicant CVs of up to two pages each
Key Dates
- Round 2 applications open: 1 June 2026
- Round 2 applications close: 3 July 2026 at 11:59 pm AEST
- Round 2 outcomes announced: October to November 2026
Selection Notes
Each application is reviewed by a member of the Research Management Council or a nominated Australian-qualified reviewer. Reviewers assess strengths and weaknesses, make a funding recommendation, and assign an overall score. The number of grants awarded per round varies depending on available funding.