Critical Technologies Challenge Program

Encouraging quantum solutions to Australia’s most significant national challenges.

The Critical Technologies Challenge Program (CTCP) invites solutions to market-led challenges of national significance using quantum technologies.

About the program

The program aims to drive greater awareness and uptake of quantum technologies in Australia in line with the National Quantum Strategy. It does this by creating stronger ties between quantum researchers, quantum businesses and technology end-users.

The program also aims to:

  • demonstrate Australian capability
  • drive private sector demand
  • de-risk adoption of quantum technology across the economy.

How the program works

The CTCP works in 2 stages:

  • Feasibility grants. Applicants propose a solution that contributes to solving a nationally significant challenge. They provide a detailed feasibility project that will test and demonstrate the technical viability of that solution.
  • Demonstrator grants. After completing the feasibility projects, we invite some applicants to apply for a stage 2 demonstrator grant. Demonstrator projects support applicants to build on their feasibility project and produce working prototypes or demonstrations.

To be eligible, applicants must form consortia. Together they apply for a funding round via an Australian lead applicant.

CTCP rounds

Funding closed

Critical Technologies Challenge Program (CTCP) round 1

The Australian Government is looking for quantum solutions to solve 4 of our most significant national challenges.

Challenge 1: Optimise the performance, sustainability, and security of energy networks.

Challenge 2: Improve medical imaging and medical sensors to support diagnosis, treatment of disease and monitoring activities inside the human body.

Challenge 3: Enhance communication with autonomous systems in varying environments.

Challenge 4: Optimise and reduce the impact of resource exploration, extraction, and mineral processing.

Latest news

May 2024

Critical tech funding to solve some of Australia’s most significant challenges

$36 million Critical Technologies Challenge Program (CTCP) invites solutions to market-led challenges in energy, medical, autonomous systems and resources. Applications close 2 July 2024.
May 2023

Investments to grow Australia’s critical technologies industries

As part of the 2023-24 May Budget, the Australian Government has announced $101.2 million to support businesses to integrate quantum and artificial intelligence technologies into their operations.

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