Funding Opportunities

Launching Soon: Te Aka + CSAN Momentum Grant Round

Building on Cancer Society Auckland Northland’s (CSAN) longstanding relationship with the University of Auckland, we are excited to announce that Te Aka is partnering with CSAN to deliver The CSAN Momentum Grant Round – this is a significant grant opportunity, made possible by the support and generosity of CSAN and those who give to them.

 

What is the CSAN Momentum Grant Round?

A contestable grant round with the purpose of empowering teams to deliver cancer research initiatives demonstrating excellence and clear pathways to impact.

CSAN has committed a total of $1,000,000 for this opportunity, and Te Aka is committed to enabling the best use of the fund by delivering a comprehensive contestable fund process. The intent is to fund several grants, with a delivery window of two years starting from 1 July 2024.

This email is an early signal so we can give you as much lead time as possible. The CSAN Momentum Grant Round will formally open in early April with the provision of an Application Form and full Application Guidelines.

 

What kind of applications are sought?

These grants recognise that the best research is conducted by teams. We seek to support teams to deliver excellent and impactful work with longer-term partnering potential with CSAN.

These grants recognise that good research requires funding continuity. Therefore, applications will suit research teams that are on a journey with problems that need longer timeframes to solve.

Successful applications will convey a sense of momentum – compelling proposals will;

  • Illustrate what work underpins, or has brought you to the point of your proposal – show where you started
  • Convey how this grant will enable and accelerate the work you will deliver – show where you will be during the grant period
  • Show promise for what might follow – where will your vision take us?

 

Grants may comprise a mix of direct research costs (e.g. researcher time/salary) as well as those that enable and support research (e.g. technical and clinical resource, engagement, platform support).

Teams may be new or established, formal or informal – but must have the potential for genuine longevity. Subsequent grant opportunities may become available in the future.

Research excellence, vision and strategic connection will be a key factor, including alignment of the proposed work with CSAN and UoA goals (see the Cancer Society Strategic Plan and Research Strategy for related insights). Full and transparent assessment criteria will follow, but as a signal, this could include goals that support equity in cancer outcomes, Māori health, community impact, and that build meaningful partnerships (whether focussed on research, advocacy, community, clinical aspects).

 

What’s next?

You will receive another email in early April to signal the full opening of the CSAN Momentum Grant Round, including an application form and full information on processes, timelines, assessment, and eligibility criteria. In addition, Te Aka plans to innovate by providing a timeline of support and development activity parallel to the application period – more details to come!

For now, feel free to contact Travis McDonald if you have questions or would like to discuss this excellent opportunity.