AgriFutures Australia Opens Grants for Beekeepers' Industry Development

AgriFutures Australia has announced the commencement of applications for the 2023-24 session of the Honey Bee & Pollination Program Industry Development Grants. These grants are designed to foster growth and innovation within the Australian honey bee and pollination industry, emphasizing a special focus on supporting Early Career Researchers (ECRs).

Annelies McGaw, Manager of Research at AgriFutures Australia, highlighted the critical need for these grants in light of recent challenges faced by the industry. "It’s been a tough few years for the industry," stated McGaw, referencing the Black Summer bushfires of 2019/20, the Northern NSW floods earlier this year, and biosecurity threats like the varroa mite, all of which have resulted in substantial hive losses with potentially severe implications for agricultural sectors and food security.

Acknowledging the pivotal role of research and development in revitalizing the industry, McGaw emphasized the importance of active participation and innovative approaches to ensure the industry's profitability and sustainability.

The grants, amounting to up to $7,000, are open to diverse focuses, including research funding for PhD top-ups, industry body development, personal growth, or travel opportunities. However, applicants are required to exhibit a clear and substantial benefit to the industry as a whole rather than just individual organizations or persons.

In line with the Strategic Plan, applicants must address specific strategies, including the identification and development of technology for improved hive performance, increasing capacity within the research community and future industry leaders, understanding nutrition best practices and disease interaction, exploring the benefits of honey with chain traceability, studying pollination strategies impacting crop yields and hive health, and evaluating floral resources as assets for the Australian honey bee industry.

The application deadline for these Industry Development Grants is set for Monday, 5 February 2024, at 12 noon (AEDT). More details on application requirements, evaluation criteria, and the Terms of Reference can be found here.

The initiative stands as a significant opportunity for beekeepers and researchers alike to contribute to the rejuvenation and sustainable growth of the Australian honey bee and pollination industry.