Annual Research Grants

All breakthroughs have beginnings, and we would love to help get yours started.

How to Apply

Grants Timeline

March
01
March

Expressions of interest open in early March.

April
02
April

Expressions of interest close in early April.

May
03
May

Full applications open (via invite only) where shortlisted applicants are invited to submit a full grant application.

July
04
July

Full applications closed for review. The selection process commences with peer reviews.

October
05
October

Full grant application outcome advised.

November
06
November

Grants awarded are formally announced at Firefly’s Annual Grant Awards Event.

Our Funding Focus

Early, mid, and senior career researchers are encouraged to apply for one of our grants.

You must share our vision to improve the lives of children through research.

Your project must seek to improve the health, education, and welfare outcomes for the next generation.

We support innovative research that strives to make a positive impact on children today and into the future. Whether that’s in basic science, clinical studies, or community-based research, we’d like to hear from you.

Funding is available for up to $100,000 per project, or up to $40,000 for Early Career Researchers for 1 – 2 year projects.

We aim to build research capability in South Australia by:

Fostering early career researchers

Funding ‘proof of concept’ research

Providing seed funding for early-stage research where other grant funding is unavailable

Supporting established researchers and retention of local research talent to deliver outcomes within South Australia

What We Fund

Health

We fund research that improves diagnosis, treatment and long-term outcomes for children. This includes:

  • Research into childhood illnesses and diseases
  • Early intervention and prevention programs
  • Clinical trials and innovative treatment approaches

Our goal is to advance medical knowledge and ensure children have access to the best possible healthcare and life-saving support.

Education

We support initiatives that enhance learning opportunities and developmental outcomes for children. Funding may assist:

  • Educational research focused on child development
  • Specialised learning programs for children with additional needs
  • Resources and tools that improve classroom engagement

Our goal is to give children strong foundations for lifelong learning and success.

Welfare

We fund research and programs that focus on the social, emotional, and psychological health of children. This includes funding for:

  • Mental health services and early intervention programs
  • Community-based programs that promote resilience and inclusion
  • Initiatives supporting vulnerable or disadvantaged children

By investing in welfare and wellbeing, we can help create supportive environments where children can thrive.

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