MRFF - SCTM - 2025 Stem Cell Therapies Grant Opportunity

is a funding program administered by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) on behalf of the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. It aims to support world-leading translational stem cell research to develop and deliver innovative, safe, and effective stem cell medicines that improve health outcomes in partnership with patients and carers.

Objectives:

• Support early-stage clinical trials (Phase I/IIa) of new stem cell therapies, including exploratory pilot studies and clinical trials to evaluate safety and preliminary efficacy.
• Conduct research on priority areas such as ethical and regulatory frameworks, ownership and use of cells and cellular products, community understanding and expectations, and health economics assessments related to stem cell therapies.
• Improve health and wellbeing of Australians by generating evidence on safety and efficacy of stem cell treatments and building community trust and acceptance.

Target Beneficiaries:

• Approved MRFF Eligible Organisations in Australia.
• Researchers and institutions conducting stem cell therapy clinical trials and related research.

Key Features:

• Two funding streams: Stream 1 for early-stage clinical trials; Stream 2 for research on ethical, regulatory, community, and economic aspects.
• Total funding available: AUD 31.5 million.
• Individual grants range from AUD 0 to 5 million.
• Stream 1 projects funded for up to 5 years; Stream 2 projects for up to 3 years.
• Applications must be submitted electronically via NHMRC’s Sapphire system.
• Minimum data submission deadline: July 23, 2025; final application deadline: August 20, 2025.
• Questions accepted until August 13, 2025.

Application Process:

• Applicants must be from approved MRFF Eligible Organisations.
• Read and comply with the MRFF-SCTM 2025 Grant Opportunity Guidelines.
• Submit applications electronically through NHMRC’s online system.
• Liaise with the eligible organisation for any specific submission requirements.

This grant opportunity fosters innovation in stem cell therapies by supporting both clinical development and foundational research on ethical, regulatory, and societal aspects to ensure safe and accepted medical advancements.