Aspiring trailblazers invited to apply for Curtin’s annual innovation awards

Innovators from across Australia will now have the opportunity to showcase their ideas and projects at the 2020 Curtinnovation awards, which are open to the general public for the first time.

The Curtinnovation Awards recognise exceptional research outcomes that can translate into new products and services. Applicants who submit an idea are in the running to win a share of a prize pool valued at up to $100,000, and the opportunity to connect with Western Australia’s research, business and investor community.

Curtin University Director of Commercialisation Rohan McDougall said the current health crisis highlights the need for us to think innovatively about problem solving.

“Crises often drive innovation and the current COVID-19 pandemic has put the spotlight firmly on the need for agility and innovation in the search for solutions to everyday problems,” Mr McDougall said.

“The Curtinnovation Awards offer a fantastic opportunity for aspiring innovators to showcase their work alongside other industry professionals and researchers. This year we’re delighted to extend our search to the broader public and look forward to seeing new creative ideas that could one day be used in everyday applications.”

Mr McDougall said Curtin is looking for anyone who has a new idea for a product or service and thinks they can advance that idea towards market through research, study or collaboration with Curtin.

“Past winners include iCetana – a software tool able to improve effectiveness of video security systems; and Rex Orthapaedic Screw – an innovative orthopaedic screw that could help improve patient outcomes after complex trauma surgery,” Mr McDougall said.

“The Awards are just one way that Curtin is supporting the community to translate research and innovations into real world commercial opportunities, products and services.”

In addition to cash prizes, this year’s prize pool includes scholarships to the Curtin Ignition and Curtin Accelerate programs valued at up to $3,250 and $5,000 respectively.

Applications are open to Curtin staff, current and prospective students, as well as current and prospective industry collaborators and close on 12 June 2020. Winners will be announced in September.

Further information on the Curtinnovation Awards can be found online here.