Grant Program

Supporting innovation in excellence in eye care

About the Grant Program

The Sydney Eye Hospital Foundation Grant Program supports initiatives that enhance patient care, advance eye health research, and strengthen the skills and wellbeing of our clinical teams. Through this program, we help fund projects that make a meaningful and lasting impact for patients, staff, and the wider eye health community.

For 45 years, Sydney Eye Hospital Foundation has been at the forefront of supporting vision-saving initiatives. 

Who Can Apply

Grants are open to staff at Sydney Eye Hospital (SEH). Research grants are also open to affiliated Ophthalmology Departments and Universities.

All submissions
are reviewed by the Foundation’s Grant Program Review Committee and shortlisted in consultation with the Sydney Eye Hospital Executive before being presented to the Board for approval.

To be successful, applications must demonstrate a clear benefit to Sydney Eye Hospital’s state-wide service delivery, or deliver national or global benefits for ophthalmic patients.

To apply for funding for accessibility projects, professional development programs, or technology and equipment, please complete the relevant form outlined below.

Key Dates

2026 Grants Open
  • Applications Open until: 15 February 2026
  • Funding Announced: End March 2026
  • Funding Commences: 2026 

2026 Grants Open

Grant Funding Categories

As we celebrate 45 years of giving, we continue to support groundbreaking research and innovation in eye health and vision care. To mark this milestone, we're increasing our level of investment and offerings, which include:  

  • Improving patient accessibility $20K to 100K 
  • Professional programs up to $25K
  • Technology and equipment up to $250K
  • Research projects total available $300K.


These grants will provide funding for up to 2 years, empowering SEH staff, researchers, clinicians, and innovators to transform the future of eye health. 

Research Grant

Funding available: up to $300K. Seed funding for translational research in prevention, early intervention or improved treatment outcomes for ophthalmology patients. Lead researcher must work in an Australian institution and project must be in collaboration with current Sydney Eye Hospital specialist.

Technology and Equipment Grant

Funding available: $250K. Investing in advancing technology and state-of-the-art equipment to enhance patient care at Sydney Eye Hospital. This funding will support innovations that improve diagnosis, treatment, and recovery for thousands of patients, ensuring they receive world-class eye health services.

Patient Accessibility Grant

Funding available: $20K-$100K. Providing safe, accessible and evidence-based care to improve patient outcomes.

Professional Development Grant

Funding available: up to $25K. Supporting staff wellbeing, leadership and professional development, to positively benefit the health and experience of our community.

Support our vision to save yours.