mRNA research in Victoria will benefit from a funding boost that will fast-track sovereign manufacturing and health-care breakthroughs.

mRNA Vaccine wooden block display

The $21 million mRNA Victoria Activation Program (mAP) will support bold ideas to grow Victoria’s RNA research, development and manufacturing capability.

The largest ever dedicated mRNA research grant program seen in Australia, mAP grants will provide broad-based support to grow the RNA ecosystem, including support for clinical research and projects to develop enabling technology such as artificial intelligence, next-generation manufacturing, safety testing and alternative vaccine delivery methods.

mAP will support Victorian businesses, universities and medical research institutes developing new technologies and therapies to produce better health outcomes, with the grants open to projects from early-stage research through to commercialisation.

The program is part of the Victorian Government’s $50 million commitment to mRNA Victoria, which is preparing the ground for large-scale mRNA manufacturing to secure the supply of vaccines for future pandemics and provide breakthroughs in treatment for conditions like heart disease, cancer and rare genetic disorders.

Last month, mRNA Victoria in partnership with Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MIPS), the Doherty Institute and IDT Australia announced clinical trials will commence next year for Australia’s first ever mRNA drug product.

Learn more about Victoria’s research and development capabilities or contact our team to explore available investment options.