DIN Pilot Project funding scheme is an annual, competitive program that supports cross-discipline university collaboration in New South Wales and ACT.

The key objective of the DIN Pilot Projects is to conduct a rapid feasibility study on new ideas for Defence and develop these ideas into concepts or technology that can attract further investment from the government or industry. In addition, pilot projects should demonstrate high potential to satisfy an existing or emerging Defence capability need or an existing or emerging industry need.

Topics

Problem statements, which serve as a basis for a call-out for proposals, are sourced from Defence and the industry.

1. New Advanced Materials for Helmet Systems
2. Edge AI-Enabled UAVs with minimal communication
3. AI-Designed Camouflage System
4. Rapid Identification Tech for Pathogen Detection
5. Models for Hazard Prediction
6. Tool to detect Software Vulnerabilities

Selection process

• Sandpit Workshops

DIN Sandpit Workshops bring together researchers, Defence and industry to identify essential defence problems. During workshops, research problems are then pitched to the audience and challenged by experts. This allows attendees to understand the situation better and create new collaborations with like-minded people.

Problem statements from these events form the basis of the call for proposals.

• Application

Application for the DIN Pilot Project grant is a one-stage process. Proposals should be submitted to info@defenceinnovationnetwork.com within the published due date.

All applicants are expected to communicate with their DIN university coordinator and the problem originator to ensure clarity of the project objectives. DIN can make these introductions on request.

• Assessment

The DIN Technical Review Panel will assess all complete applications on a competitive basis relative to the criteria as outlined in the guidelines.

Anticipated timeline

30 Mar-23            Sandpit Workshops
17 Apr-23             Call for Proposals
25 May-23           Applications close
20 Jun-23             Technical Review Panel Assessment
26 Jun-23             Announcement of results
Jun-Sep-23          Contracting
01 Oct-23             Project start

Documents

01_DIN Pilot Project- Guidelines
02_ DIN Pilot Project-Application Form