Newcastle Permanent Innovators Program
Empowering HMRI researchers to drive real-world impact
The Newcastle Permanent Innovators Program is a six week initiative that supports HMRI Early and Mid Career Researchers (EMCRs) to strengthen research translation capability and accelerate their research concept towards real-world impact.
Created by the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) in partnership with Newcastle Permanent, the program is designed to support HMRI EMCR affiliate led ideas, across research, clinical practice, and health service delivery.
Grounded in community-connected research, the program focuses on translating evidence and insights into practical solutions that respond to real-world health needs, with an emphasis on implementation, impact, and measurable outcomes.
EMCRs will refine and progress their novel ideas and concepts along the translational pipeline, culminating in a Pitch Showcase event, with seed grant awards and the chance to secure one of two $100,000 Newcastle Permanent Innovator Fellowships.
Applications open now
How the Newcastle Permanent Innovators Program works
Six participants will be selected to engage in a 6-week bespoke program designed for EMCRs. Participants are supported to build upon their concepts with practical innovation and translation skills through workshops led by the Institute’s Research Development, Research Translation and Research Delivery teams.
Key program elements include:
- Tailored innovation modules – supporting skills and capability building across the research translation spectrum.
- Goal setting and roadmap development – participants receive strategic guidance on advancing their research, optimising translation and likelihood of impact.
- Seed funding – four participants will receive $20,000 seed grant awards to continue developing their project. Two participants will be awarded a $100,000 Newcastle Permanent Innovator Fellowship to further advance and fast-track their initiative.
- Pitch development – participants will be guided to develop and refine a pitch for their research project.
- Mentorship – Research translation and development mentors provide both personalised guidance throughout the program and opportunities for professional network expansion.
- Pitch showcase – Participation in a final showcase event where participants pitch their project to a panel of experts and decision makers.
Participants will receive $20,000 in seed funding to accelerate their research
Expert mentorship from research specialists
Specialist training delivered across key HMRI platforms
Support to develop, refine and present your pitch at a final expert showcase event
A chance to be awarded one of two $100,000 Newcastle Permanent Innovators Fellowships
Continued access to HMRI’s network and funding opportunities beyond the program
How to apply
Step 1: Check eligibility
Review Newcastle Permanent Innovators Program Guidelines to confirm your eligibility.
Download the Guidelines here
Step 2: Prepare your application
- Download the application form here
- Eligible researchers must self-nominate and complete one application form
- The response to assessment criteria must not exceed three (3) pages
- Save your application and all required attachments as a single PDF
- Use the following file name format: 2025_Full Name_NP Innovators Program
Step 3: Submit your application
- Email your completed application to [email protected]
- Use the subject line: 2026 NP Innovatiors Program
- Applications must be submitted by 11.59 pm (AEDT) on Sunday 10 May, 2026 (late applications will not be considered)
Key Program Dates
Applications open: Friday 17 April, 2026
Applications close: Sunday 10 May, 2026 (11:59 pm)
Program Commences: June 2026
Apply Now
Be part of the next cohort of the Newcastle Permanent Innovators.
Applications close 11.59 pm,
Sunday 10 May, 2026
Got Questions?
Reach out to
[email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions
General Eligibility
Who can apply?
The Program is open to early and mid-career researchers (ECR/MCR), clinician researchers, or research active health professionals affiliated with HMRI who have an innovative idea in health, research, or wellbeing.
Do I need a team to apply?
No, the Program is designed for you to apply as an individual. However, applicants should demonstrate the expertise and commitment to develop their idea and be open to collaboration. We acknowledge that research benefits from having a team to support you – this can be clinical or research collaborators and supports. This will be addressed in the workshop modules.
Do I need a fully developed project to be eligible?
No. Your idea should be well thought out, but it doesn’t need to be fully developed. The program is designed to help refine and advance promising translation projects that respond to priority needs.
Can I apply if I have already received funding for my research?
Yes, but you must demonstrate how you see the program developing your idea beyond existing funding sources.
Do I need to be working on my project full-time?
No, but applicants should be prepared to dedicate time towards the program. Participation in key activities, including workshops and mentoring sessions, is required and estimated at around 4-6 hours per week.
Application Process
What is the application assessment process?
Applications are reviewed by a panel, chaired by the HMRI Director or nominee, with a review panel comprising representatives from HMRI and partners. Applications will be assessed based on the assessment criteria, ensuring that selected participants are well aligned with the Program’s objectives and demonstrate strong potential for impact.
Can I apply if I have participated in a previous Newcastle Permanent??
No, previous Newcastle Permanent Program and Fellowship finalists are not eligible to participate in the 2026 Innovators Program. However, Newcastle Permanent Emerging Innovator Award winners are eligible to apply.
Can I reapply if I am not selected?
Yes, we encourage applicants to refine their ideas and apply for future rounds.
How will applicants be notified if they are selected?Applicants will be notified by email as soon as practicable after the assessment process as to whether they have progressed as a finalist in the Program or if their application is unsuccessful.
Program Structure & Expectation
What is the duration of the program?
The accelerator runs for 6 weeks, starting in June 2026.
How many researchers will be accepted in the initial intake?
The intake will include six researchers.
Will I receive funding?
Yes. Each participant receives funding to support their project. Innovator Program finalists will receive a minimum of $20,000 as part of the Program.
Is there an opportunity for further funding?
Yes. At the end of the program, the two top-performing participants will be awarded a $100,000 Newcastle Permanent Innovator Fellowship towards further development of their research.
What kind of support will I receive?
Participants will have access to:
- Research mentors
- Workshops and training
- Roadmap development support
- Pitch development training and support
What are the time commitments?
Participants should expect to attend regular workshops, mentoring sessions, and peer discussions, estimated at 4-6 hours per week. Time requirements vary but are structured to fit around existing commitments.
Will I need to attend sessions in person?
Yes, workshops and sessions, and peer discussions will be held in person at HMRI.
What happens at the Pitch Showcase Event?
At the end of the program, participants will pitch their projects to a panel of experts and an audience of researchers, community members and health professionals investors. This is a key opportunity to gain support and funding. The Fellowship winners will be selected at the Pitch Showcase Event.
What happens after the program ends?
Graduates will gain ongoing access to HMRI’s network, mentors, and funding opportunities. Finalists will continue to progress their work with their awarded funding.
Is the Pitch Showcase mandatory?
Yes. This is a core part of the Program and a chance to showcase your work to key decision-makers.
Who owns my idea after the program?
If a program participant is an employee or student of the University of Newcastle, they agree and acknowledge that intellectual property ownership will be in accordance with the University’s Intellectual Property Policy and Intellectual Property Procedure.
If a program participant is an employee of Hunter New England Local Health District, they agree and acknowledge that intellectual property ownership will be in accordance with the NSW Health Policy Directive: Intellectual Property arising from Health Research and NSW Health Commercialisation Framework. Learn more here
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