The International Space Investment India Projects Round 2 supports Australian organisations to conduct joint space projects and build valuable commercial links with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the broader Indian space sector. With grants of up to $2.69 million covering up to 100 per cent of eligible project costs, this is one of the most significant space sector funding opportunities currently available.

Applications close 16 March 2026 at 5:00pm AEDT. Note that the Project Plan Template was revised on 17 February 2026, so make sure you are using the latest version.

What the grant offers

• Up to $2.69 million per project
• Covers up to 100 per cent of eligible project costs
• Funding for joint space projects with Indian partners
• Support for building commercial relationships with ISRO and the broader Indian space sector

Who should apply

• Australian companies working in the space sector
• Publicly funded research organisations
• Organisations seeking to collaborate with Indian partners on space-related projects
• Must be an eligible entity with an eligible project and eligible expenditure as defined in the grant opportunity guidelines

What makes a strong application

This program is not just about space technology. It is about strategic bilateral collaboration between Australia and India. The strongest applications will demonstrate a genuine partnership with an Indian organisation, not just a supplier relationship or a loose memorandum of understanding. Assessors want to see that both sides bring something meaningful to the project and that the collaboration creates value that neither party could achieve alone.

The program has five core objectives, and your application should clearly address as many as possible. These are: unlocking international opportunities for joint projects with India, expanding Australian space sector capability and supporting job creation, demonstrating Australia's ability to deliver space products and services internationally, contributing to a diverse and inclusive space ecosystem, and increasing investment in the space sector aligned with the project focus areas in Appendix A of the guidelines.

Pay close attention to Appendix A. The project focus areas define what the program is actually looking to fund, and applications that sit outside those areas will struggle regardless of how strong the technology or partnership is.

At up to $2.69 million with 100 per cent cost coverage, the assessment bar will be high. Expect competition from well-resourced companies and research institutions. Your application needs to be detailed, evidence-based, and specific about deliverables, timelines, and how the project advances both Australian and Indian space capabilities.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a confirmed Indian partner before applying?

You should have a substantive partnership arrangement in place, not just an expression of interest. The program is specifically designed for joint projects, so a clearly defined collaboration with an Indian organisation is fundamental to eligibility and competitiveness.

Can startups apply or is this only for established space companies?

Australian companies of any size can apply, provided they meet the eligible entity criteria in the guidelines. However, given the scale of funding and the expectation of international project delivery, you will need to demonstrate organisational capacity. Partnering with a research organisation or more established company can help if you are earlier stage.

What counts as eligible expenditure?

The grant covers up to 100 per cent of eligible project costs, but what qualifies as eligible is defined in the grant opportunity guidelines. Review these carefully before building your budget. Ineligible costs in your application can undermine an otherwise strong proposal.

Can I apply if I already received funding in Round 1?

Check the guidelines for any restrictions on repeat applicants. Generally, there is no blanket prohibition, but your Round 1 project performance and acquittal status may be relevant to your eligibility and assessment.

Why it is worth your time

India's space sector is expanding rapidly. ISRO's launch capabilities, satellite programs, and growing commercial ecosystem make it one of the most significant international partners for Australian space companies. This grant provides a funded pathway into that market with government backing on both sides.

The 100 per cent cost coverage is rare for a program of this scale. Most grants require co-contributions of 50 per cent or more, so this represents an unusually favourable funding structure for eligible projects. If you have a viable collaboration concept with an Indian partner, the financial barrier to entry is essentially removed.

How Grant Savvy helps

We write it for you. Grant applications are time consuming and competitive. We handle the writing, positioning, and submission so you can focus on your project and partnerships.

We know what assessors look for. Our team has helped clients secure over $45 million in government funding. We understand how to frame international collaboration projects around program objectives and assessment criteria.

Strategic positioning. We help you connect your project to the program's five core objectives and the specific focus areas in Appendix A, so your application reads as a natural fit rather than a stretch.

Fixed pricing, no surprises. Our fees are transparent and structured so you know exactly what you are paying before we start.

Our process

• Initial consultation to understand your project and goals
• Eligibility confirmation and program fit assessment
• Drafting your application with supporting narrative
• Internal review against assessment criteria
• Final revisions with your input
• Submission before the deadline
• Post-submission support and follow-up

Standard turnaround: 3-4 weeks. Rush options available when capacity permits.