Q: Do we have to be associated with a university?  

A: No you do not.
If you have the appropriate expertise to conduct the research with out aligning to a university research group, then you do not need to collaborate. However, collaborations can strengthen your application.

Q: It appears from the description that two DHBs or PHO's much collaborate. Can an application be submitted that is primarily submitted by a single DHB but with university support?  

A: It is a requirement of the RFP that the application show a meaningful partnership between at least one other DHB and/or PHO.  Collaborations with university groups are encouraged, but the initial requirement of a partnership between at least two DHBs and/or PHOs must also be met.

Q: I would be grateful if you could clarify whether universities can apply for this research? The RFP indicates only DHBs or primary care organisations can lead the applications.  

A: You are correct in that they intent of the RFP is to have DHBs and PHOs lead the research.  If there is a particular reason as to why this cannot occur for a project then approval form the steering committee will have to be sought.  Collaborations with university researchers are encouraged to strengthen applications if necessary..

Q: With the possibility of up to 20 projects to be funded out of a funding pool of $1.5million, that only leaves $75,000 per project. Is this the budgetary limit?  

A: Proposals are not restricted to $75,000 only.  We anticipate that we will fund up to 20 projects, which will have a range of budgets.  The number of projects funded could be less depending on the amount of money required and the number of suitable proposal received.  Budgets need to be appropriate for the research proposed given the one year time frame.