Creative investment approach facilitating innovative solutions

The Australian honey bee and pollination industry is reaping the rewards of an innovative development grants program that’s expanding understanding, knowledge and skills.

The AgriFutures Honey Bee & Pollination Program’s Industry Development Grants (IDGs) are playing a critical role in driving the industry into the future. In the past year, the initiative has had a particular focus on supporting early career researchers (ECR) on their research journeys.

IDGs (up to $5,000 in 2022/23) can be used for, but are not limited to, research funding including PhD top-ups, industry body development, personal development or travel.

“IDGs are fostering effective pilot work that is having a big impact in the Australian honey bee and pollination industry. In the past few years we have already seen two
pilot studies progress to substantial research projects for the Program,” AgriFutures Honey Bee & Pollination Program Manager Annelies McGaw said.

The work of four early-career researchers and students who are driving increased efficiencies and production in the Australian honey bee and pollination industry using an
IDG include:

• Development of an AFB-LAMP test – La Trobe University
• Development of 4G-connected weight stations for commercial beehives – University of New South Wales
• The Australian Propolis Project – Hive & Wellness Australia
• Neuroprotective compositions of eastern Australian monofloral honey – University of the Sunshine Coast

The AgriFutures Honey Bee & Pollination Program 2023/24 Industry Development Grants are now open. Apply now
Find out more about the AgriFutures Honey Bee & Pollination Program