Funding for 2026-27 Research and Development Scheme competitive grant round
Project eligibility
The 2026-27 competitive grant funding is for projects with innovative ideas and solutions addressing sector-wide issues for the benefit of SA councils and their communities.
Projects must also:
- align with the Annual Strategic Research Priorities, which will closely be linked to LGA's Strategic Plan (PDF 5.0 MB)
- demonstrate meaningful engagement and collaboration with the local government sector, emphasising the value of collective effort.
The Annual Strategic Research Priorities and the 2026-27 Grant Guidelines will be available on the website in early August.
Application process
The 2026-27 grant round will open on 5 August 2026 with an Expression of Interest (EIO) process.
EOIs must be submitted online and will be available via the SmartyGrants application portal.
Shortlisted applicants will then be invited to submit a full application for assessment. Projects approved for funding are expected to begin in early 2027.
EOIs will be shortlisted based on:
- engagement with the local government sector
- strategic alignment with Research and Development Scheme priorities
- potential benefit for local governments.
Full EOI criteria will be available to councils on Monday 3 August 2026.
Attend an information session on 10 August
Potential applications are encouraged to attend our information session on 10 August 2026. We'll explain the application process and eligibility criteria.
Join the session to make sure your project has the best chance at being successful.
Sign up for updates
Be the first to find out about key stages and updates for the 2026-27 R&D Scheme competitive grant round.
Find out more
If you have any questions, please contact:
Mathilde Thorsen, Projects and Grants Coordinator
Email: lgrds@lga.sa.gov.au
Phone: (08) 8224 2057