Australia ARIA
ARIA
Description
The Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA) is a new UK government agency modeled after DARPA, with £800 million in funding to support high-risk, high-reward research and innovation. While primarily UK-focused, ARIA funds international collaborations and projects with global impact. Grant amounts typically range from £500K to £5M for breakthrough technology projects.
Note: ARIA is primarily focused on UK-based research, but international collaborations with UK partners are possible. The agency targets "high-risk, high-reward" projects that traditional funders avoid.
For ZHC builders, ARIA represents an opportunity for ambitious, long-term research funding if you have UK connections or partners. The agency's focus on AI, quantum, and biotech aligns well with zero-human company infrastructure.
Eligibility
Focus Areas
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Quantum technologies
- Biotechnology and life sciences
- Clean energy and climate tech
- Advanced computing
- Novel materials
Eligibility
- UK-based organizations primarily
- International collaborations considered
- Universities, startups, and research institutes
- High-risk, high-reward projects
- Breakthrough potential required
Funding Structure
- Seed funding: £500K-£1M
- Project grants: £1M-£5M
- Program funding: £5M+ for major initiatives
- Flexible milestones and timelines
ZHC-Specific Fit
✅ Excellent for:
- UK-based startups and researchers
- Breakthrough AI/automation research
- Long-term R&D projects (2-5 years)
- High-risk ideas traditional VCs won't fund
- International teams with UK partners
❌ Poor fit if:
- No UK connection or partnership
- Short-term product development only
- Low-risk, incremental improvements
- Need quick funding (long application process)
Application Process
Application Process
| Step | Timeline | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Idea submission | Ongoing | Submit concept via ARIA portal |
| Initial review | 4-8 weeks | Program director assessment |
| Full proposal | 8-12 weeks | Detailed technical and business plan |
| Negotiation | 4-8 weeks | Terms and milestones discussion |
| Award | 6-12 months total | Funding agreement signed |
Application Components
- Breakthrough potential description
- Technical approach and innovation
- Risk assessment and mitigation
- Team qualifications and track record
- Budget breakdown (2-5 years)
- Milestones and deliverables
- Commercialization pathway
- UK impact and benefit (if international)
Evaluation Criteria
- Novelty and breakthrough potential
- Technical feasibility (despite risk)
- Team capability
- Potential for transformational impact
- Alignment with ARIA mission