The grant guidelines provide information about eligibility and assessment criteria.
Applications must address one of the CAAR's current annual grant round priority areas. Information is available in the Strategic Framework.
Other key points:
Communication is key: The CAAR looks for projects that will generate positive media coverage and commentary on Australia-Middle East and North Africa relationships and will promote a contemporary and positive image of Australia. A robust and clear communication plan for your project is crucial for maximising the impact and reach of your project to a wide audience.
Project partners: The CAAR Board considers the capability and capacity of applicants and any project partners to deliver their proposed project. If you identify a project partner, you are required to show evidence that you have been in communication with and have an agreement with your proposed partner, preferably on letterhead from the partner organisation (to be included in your Smartygrants application under the title ‘project partners’). Information regarding your past achievements and successful partnerships should also be provided in support of your application.
Diversity of projects: We are interested in hearing from people and organisations in locations outside of large metropolitan areas. There is no quota for themes or types of projects that can be funded per year.
Non-commercial activities: We sometimes get applications to support routine business operations. Please refer to the CAAR Grant Guidelines for information on what we can and can’t fund.
Research projects: We receive a lot of very high-quality applications from universities and research institutes. While we are very interested in research, the objective of the CAAR is not to support the creation of research. We are interested in the dissemination stage and communication of research results, i.e. where the impact and the visibility of Australian, Middle Eastern and/or North African research capabilities can be demonstrated and shared with the wider community.
Tips on writing a strong application
- Have a good idea, work out how you are going to execute it and find an interested partner in Australia or the Middle East and/or North Africa.
- Read the grant guidelines and ensure your project outcomes are aligned with that year’s CAAR objectives and priority areas.
- Make the aim and impact of the project clear.
- Develop a robust communications plan.
- Demonstrate the viability of the project by making the co-sponsors and collaboration between Middle Eastern and North African and Australian partners clear. What will project partners bring to the table, either in cash or in-kind support?
- If your project proposal includes travel, articulate an alternative/virtual plan to deliver the project.
- Write the application for a non-specialist reader and have someone else read it before you submit.