NATIONAL SCIENCE WEEK 2008 GRANTS
National Science Week has barely finished, but its time to start thinking about the next one, which will be from 16-24 August 2008. The National Science Week has a reputation for having a lasting impact on perceptions of science and its applications, and is supported by the Australian Government in a variety of ways, including through the National Science Week Grants Programme. Australian Government funding is available on a competitive basis from the Science Connections Programme (SCOPE) for National Science Week projects. Funds available for National Science Week grants in 2008 total $500,000, and applicants can apply for between $2,000 and $40,000. This funding is available to finance projects addressing one or more of the following purposes: to celebrate Australian achievements and capabilities in science, engineering, technology and innovation; to provide an opportunity for all Australians to participate in events and activities that showcase science, engineering, technology and innovation, showing how sciences modern explorations and concerns are interesting, challenging, important, and of direct relevance to our daily lives, the well being of society and the environmentally sustainable growth of our economy; to encourage younger people to consider continuing studies in science; to assist in making the connection between science studies and science-based career opportunities; and to foster partnerships between the community, research organisations and industry. The 2008 National Science Week grants round opened on 17 September 2007, and will close at 17:00 AEST Friday 19 October 2007.