The Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) has launched the Newcastle Permanent Innovation Accelerator Program to empower early and mid-career researchers to turn novel ideas into community-improving solutions.  Accelerator participants will receive $20,000 in funding to fast-track their ideas, with the top-performing researcher awarded a prestigious $200,000 award.

Created by the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) in Partnership with the Newcastle Permanent and delivered in partnership with the University of Newcastle and John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct, the Newcastle Permanent Innovation Accelerator Program aims to grow new ideas that will help HMRI create the healthiest million people on the planet. 

Professor Frances Kay-Lambkin, HMRI Director and CEO, emphasised the significance of this initiative, stating, “This program is about backing HMRI affiliated researchers with the right support, mentorship, and industry connections to bring big ideas to life. Too often, great innovations get stuck in the lab. Thanks to Newcastle Permanent’s support we’re able to further help early and mid-career researchers break through these barriers and speed up their work so together we can transform the health and wellbeing of the Hunter New England community.”

The Accelerator program is the flagship initiative of the $2 million Newcastle Permanent Innovation Partnership, dedicated to advancing medical research, supporting local talent, and driving medical discoveries.

Paul Juergens, Chief Distribution Officer at Newcastle Permanent, highlighted his organisation’s commitment to the program, stating, “Through this partnership, we are investing in research that has the potential to change lives. By supporting HMRI researchers, we are helping create innovative healthcare solutions that will not only benefit the Hunter region but could have a far-reaching impact across Australia and beyond.” Mr Juergens said.

A program that takes healthy further

The Newcastle Permanent Innovation Accelerator Program aims to bridge the gap between research and practical application by guiding participants through the translational pipeline.

The program offers a two-stream approach:

• Translational research pathway – accelerating the implementation and large-scale uptake of healthcare ideas.
• Commercialisation pathway – providing mentorship and funding to help researchers bring commercially viable innovations to market.

Warrick Dawson, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Industry and Engagement, Research and Innovation at the University of Newcastle, reinforced the value of the Accelerator’s, stating, “This program builds a strong pipeline of researchers into later-stage programs. By working together, we can better support their translation journeys and connect them with the right mentors, industry partners, and investors to maximise impact. We are grateful to Newcastle Permanent for their support and welcome private investment that leads to community benefiting outcomes.”

How it works

Participants will engage in a 12-week curated program, tailored to their specific innovation needs. Key program elements include:

• Initial pitch assessment – participants present their innovation to a panel of experts. Mentorship – matched mentors provide strategic guidance throughout the process.
• Goal setting and roadmap development – participants receive personalised guidance on advancing their innovation.
• Networking opportunities – exposure to key industry players, funders, and investors.
• Tailored innovation modules – culminating in development of a business plan and refined pitch deck.
• Demo Day – A final showcase where participants present their progress and next steps.

Each successful participant will receive $20,000 in funding to support their idea development and following the Demo Day panel presentation, one participant will be selected and offered a further $200,000 award including continued structured mentorship.

Key dates

• EOI opens: 17 March
• EOI closes: 30 March
• Cohort announced: By 30 April
• Program commencement: May

Program benefits

Participants will gain:

• $20,000 in seed funding to accelerate their research.
• Expert mentorship from industry leaders and research specialists.
• Specialist training on business development and commercialisation.
• Networking opportunities with investors, policymakers, and key industry figures.
• A chance to compete for a $200,000 award to further develop their research.
• Continued access to HMRI’s network and funding opportunities beyond the program.

Who should apply?

This program is designed for early and mid-career researchers and clinicians within the HMRI ecosystem who are developing healthcare innovations with the potential for real-world impact.
Specifically, researchers whose novel idea aligns closely with HMRI research themes, addresses a defined need of the community or health system and where an Accelerator program has a clear role to play in the translation pathway, are encouraged to apply.

Frances Kay-Lambkin believes this is a genuine game-changer for researchers, “I urge researchers to apply because opportunities like this can be game-changers. This program is designed to give you the mentorship, industry connections, and financial support needed to take your research beyond the lab and into the real world. It is about accelerating your ideas, expanding your impact, and building the career that you want,” said Prof. Kay-Lambkin.

Lead the way as a first participant

Applications for the Newcastle Permanent Innovation Accelerator Program will open 17 March, with the program set to commence in May 2025.