Initiate Fellowships invest in the next generation of researchers to undertake a research project and develop the skills, experience and professional versatility required to build sustainable research careers that contribute to a high-performing research system, both inside and outside of academia. Fellows may undertake collaborative activities, placements, secondments, mentoring arrangements or other opportunities that strengthen their professional networks and career pathways. Initiate Fellowships is expected to open in Q2 2027 and will run annually. Duration Indicative funding amount Eligibility Up to 3 years Up to $50,000 per year in project funding (plus salary and on-costs) Early-career researchers within 5 years of PhD award (subject to allowable career interruptions) Indicative grant opportunity This information is indicative and is subject to consultation and information sessions which will inform design of the scheme in the final grant opportunity guidelines. The Initiate Fellowships grant opportunity supports early-career researchers to: pursue innovative research strengthen research capability and independence develop leadership skills and professional experience broaden collaboration and professional networks enhance employability through diverse career pathways, both within and beyond academia. Career-stage cohorts Applications will be assessed in two career-stage cohorts: Cohort 1: Up to 2 years since award of PhD Cohort 2: More than 2 years and up to 5 years since award of PhD This approach recognises the different career stages, including the types of opportunities available, for both cohorts. Career development plan Applications will require a career development plan outlining the candidate’s development goals and the support to be provided by the Administering Organisation to strengthen research capability, employability and adaptable skills. Fellowships may include engagement activities such as placements with Australian or international universities, industry or other research end-users. This will be assessed as part of the ‘WHO’ assessment criterion. Proposed additional limits ARC Research Points have been introduced to support broader participation in research projects and collaboration across grant opportunities, and these limits apply to this scheme. See the ARC Research Points page for specific details related to this scheme. NCGP legacy scheme grants will not count towards the ARC Research Points limit. Any additional limits will be subject to consultation and development of the final grant opportunity guidelines. Proposed objectives a. Excellence: Support excellent and innovative research that addresses a significant problem or advances knowledge. b. Benefit: Support research that provides value for money and serves the national interest in diverse ways, including fundamental knowledge creation; commercial, cultural, economic, environmental, or social benefits; and/or alignment with Australian government priority areas. c. Capacity: Support the development of the research workforce in Australia by providing opportunities for early-career researchers to strengthen their research and leadership experience and build transferable skills for career pathways within and beyond academia. d. Collaboration: Support the development of mutually beneficial collaboration between early-career researchers and local and/or international partners, where appropriate for an individual research project.