[Programme 1] 2023
[Project name] from NUS [Faculty]
NUS [Faculty]
Short summary of what the project funded, what milestone the funding helped reach, and what came next (spinout, license, etc.).
Quick check
Four questions, ten seconds. We'll highlight programmes likely to fit your stage and situation.
Process
The application process is the same across all four programmes — only the timelines and review committees differ.
Confirm your IP status, role, and that the programme fits your stage. Your domain TTO can pre-screen if unsure.
2–5 page proposal describing the technology, commercial thesis, work plan, and budget. Templates provided.
Programme committee reviews. Shortlisted applicants present briefly. Decisions communicated within stated review window.
Award letter, agreement signing, kickoff with TTO and programme manager. Funds disbursed per milestone schedule.
Past awardees
A small selection of NUS research projects funded through these programmes that went on to license, spinout, or commercial pilot. All awardees →
NUS [Faculty]
Short summary of what the project funded, what milestone the funding helped reach, and what came next (spinout, license, etc.).
NUS [Faculty]
Short summary of what the project funded, what milestone the funding helped reach, and what came next.
NUS [Faculty]
Short summary of what the project funded, what milestone the funding helped reach, and what came next.
[CONFIRM all awardee examples with TTI team]
Programme-specific questions go on each programme's detail page. The questions below apply across all four programmes.
Can I apply to more than one programme at the same time?
Generally yes, if eligibility differs. Many researchers apply to a stage-appropriate programme and an industry-matched programme in parallel. Each programme has its own committee.
Do I need to have filed a patent already?
It depends on the programme. Earliest-stage funding may not require a filed patent — a disclosure is enough. Later-stage programmes (gap funding, pre-spinout) typically require patent filing or a clear path to it.
Who owns IP generated during a funded project?
Standard NUS IP policy applies. NUS holds title; revenue sharing per the policy in force at the time of the disclosure. Industry-matched programmes have specific IP carve-outs negotiated with the industry partner.
What can I spend the award on?
Materials, equipment, hired research staff, prototyping costs, IP filing fees, market validation work. Detailed allowable-cost lists are in each programme's terms. Founder salaries are not typically covered.
What happens if my project doesn't meet milestones?
Programmes have stage-gate reviews. Missing a milestone triggers a discussion with the programme manager — sometimes the project pivots, sometimes funding pauses or returns. Outright revocation is rare but possible.
Can I apply if I'm not the PI?
Most programmes require an NUS PI as principal applicant. Postdocs, PhDs, and research staff can be co-applicants and lead the work — but the PI remains the formal applicant for accountability.
Talk to your domain TTO before applying. Five minutes on the phone usually saves a week of writing the wrong proposal.