Some frequently asked questions about the voucher scheme are below. If you have any questions not covered below please contact us.
How many projects can you support in each round?
We expect to be able to support 5-7 screening centre access vouchers and ~10 core facility access vouchers, depending on application numbers, voucher size and available budget.
What is the success rate?
On average, we are able to award ouchers to ~40-50% of applications.
How frequent are the calls?
Calls for vouchers to access both core facilities and screening centres are held every six months, and are planned to close at end of each April and October
Why does the Provider facility get the funds and not the Applicant?
TIA has existing working and contractual relationships with Provider facilities, meaning that we can transfer funds quickly without waiting for a legal agreement between Applicants, Providers and TIA. For this reason, we do not seek agreements between Applicants and TIA, but rely on agreements betwen Applicants and Provider facilities.
How can I join this scheme as a Provider facility?
Adding a facility to the scheme is a strategic decision, as funding is limited. TIA facilities must have a strong customer service ethic, a clear and straighforward access model, demonstrated demand for services and some capacity to accommodate users from outside your host institution. Please contact us to discuss if your facility could be included in future schemes.
Can I receive two vouchers for the same project at different times?
Applicants may apply for multiple vouchers to support the same project in subsequent rounds, accessing the same or a different facility.
Is there anywhere I can get advice about which Provider Facility may best be able to assist me?
That is what we are here for. Please contact TIA directly and we will be happy to advise you which of our facilities may be able to assist you.
I was awarded a Pipeline Accelerator voucher before. Can I put in application again in the future rounds?
Yes, you can. We strongly encourage Pipeline Accelerator recipients to apply for voucher in the future rounds to access the same/different facilities for the same project.
How long is the application form?
The form is online and asks for answer of up to 400 words each for four questions. We also require a quote from the facility, a letter of support and (optionally) an A4 page of diagrams.
Who assesses the applications?
The applications are assessed by a panel made up of TIA staff and Directors plus independent scientific experts. This panel makes recommendations to the TIA Board, who ultimately approve the funding decisions. Facilities are not part of the assessment process.
What is the panel looking for?
The panel is generally loooking for:
- a clearly written application that focusses on development of a novel therapeutic
- a clearly itemised quote from the chosen facility
- a clear and logical development plan, ideally with GO/NO-GO milestones
This application is not a grant and should not be approached in the same way as an NHMRC or project grant.
Can I access two different facilities with the same voucher?
Absolutely, the guidelines and application form allow for this.
I am a Facility Director. Can I be named in a voucher application to my own facility?
You can be named in a project team but cannot be named as the lead applicant.
Do I need to contact the Provider facility before applying for a voucher?
Yes. It will be assumed that the application has been developed in close consultation with a Provider facility, and a quote for services a required part of the application. We expect a high level of alignment between the content, duration and timing detailed in your application with the quoted services from the Provider facility.
Can I apply for a voucher to access a facility that sits in my own University, Faculty or Institute?
Yes, but you will need to articulate why you require voucher support to access a facility within your own organisation, for example, if the facility has (or lacks) provisions for access for host-entity researchers. If you are seeking to access a facility within your own organisation, please ensure that you confirm that you do not receive preferential access or pricing from the facility
What level of co-investment is required?
The ideal level of coinvestment is 1:1, and Applicants should select a voucher value accordingly. There is no maximum level of co-investment, Applicants should bear in mind that more co-investment is not necessarily better, as for example, a $50,000 contribution to a $500,000 project is unlikely to be viewed by TIA as enabling.
Examples:
- A facility provides a quote according to TIA access and pricing policies of $60,000 (ex-GST). The voucher will be calculated to be $30,000. The cash co-investment will be considered to be $30,000, equal to the minimum ratio of 50:50.
- A facility provides a quote according to TIA access and pricing policies of $120,000 (ex-GST). The voucher will be the maximum value of $50,000. The cash co-investment will be considered to be $70,000, exceeding the minimum ratio of 50:50.
Does co-investment have to be cash?
The voucher scheme is intended to help projects cross the start line, but it is also meant to provide a subsidy – it is not intended to support activities in their entirety. For this reason, some “skin in the game” is required. And while in-kind support is appreciated, the total quoted cost of a service must be covered and this means a cash contribution is required.
Is the information in my application kept confidential?
Yes, information provided in every application (including unsuccessful applications) and report will be kept commercial-in-confidence by default. We will not publish the project outcomes without your consent.
Does TIA or the facility have a position in any resulting IP?
TIA does not seek any ownership or beneficial interest in IP resulting from voucher-supported projects. IP arrangements are set by agreements between Provider facilities and Applicants. TIA does not require sight of such agreements.
I received a voucher but due to changed circumstances I want to use it on a different project with the same Provider facility. Is this allowable?
No, vouchers are awarded to support specific projects and cannot be transferred. If this happens please contact us.
What if I can’t start within six months?
If the project is not ready to start, consider re-applying at the next round, which will be a mximum of six months away. If a project commences but does not start within six months without a reasonable explanation, TIA reserves the right to withdraw the offer after consultation with the Applicant and the Provider.
What if I can’t finish my project within 18 months from commencement ?
If the project can’t be completed within 18 months from commencement, please let us know as soon as possible. It is critical that completion reports are submitted jointly by Provider Facilities and Applicants in a reasonable time, or risk eligibility for future voucher schemes.
Need more help?
If you need help or advice on applying for a Pipeline Accelerator access voucher please contact us.
