Applications now open for SMA Research Impact Grants

Applications now open for SMA Research Impact Grants

May 16, 2026

SMA is now inviting applications for the new SMA Research Impact Grant Program.

Evolving from the former SMA Research Foundation Grants, the program expands SMA's commitment to supporting research that improves the health, safety and performance of athletes and active Australians.

Through targeted funding, the program aims to support research that advances knowledge in sports medicine and sports science while helping translate evidence into better injury prevention, treatment, recovery and performance outcomes across sport and physical activity.

In 2026, SMA will award up to six grants valued at $5,000 each.

Priority research themes include:

• Mental health in sport
• Overtraining and injury prevention in youth sport
• Female athlete health and performance
• Sleep and recovery in sport
• Concussion management

An open category is also available for innovative research outside the identified priority themes.

The program is open to current financial SMA members undertaking research relevant to sports medicine or sports science, including academic researchers and early to senior career researchers.

Applicants must be a current financial SMA member at the time of application and remain a financial member for the duration of the funded research project.

As part of the program, successful applicants may also have opportunities to present their research through SMA conferences, webinars and communication channels, helping strengthen knowledge translation across the sports medicine community.

Applications close Sunday 28 June 2026.

Find out more and apply here.