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Connecting research with funding
We help researchers, universities and science teams craft compelling, high-impact communications to secure grants, build industry partnerships and get funding across the line.
LET'S WORK TOGETHERCOMMUNICATE IN CLEVER WAYS
Powerful science deserves powerful communication
At Straight Up, we work with researchers, government teams and science-based startups to connect bold ideas with the people and funding that help bring them to life.
Whether you need a winning grant application, a strategic communications plan, or help building partner relationships—our team brings scientific fluency, commercial insight, and genuine collaboration to every project.
WHY CHOOSE US?
Quality work from a team that gets it
Unlike mainstream marketers, we understand science—and the systems that support it. We combine subject-matter fluency with sharp strategy and spotless execution, so you don’t have to explain yourself twice.
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Strategic thinkers, not just wordsmiths
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Fluent across academia, government and industry
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Proven success in grants, partnerships, and complex communications
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Deep technical knowledge (plus a knack for clarity and tone)
Where would you like to start?

Grants & proposals
We've successfully secured over $200 million in grant or project funding (plus partner cash and in-kind contributions). Let us help you create an immediate impact.

Writing & design
We help researchers and scientists communicate to the partners that keep their work going, by identifying the most impactful messages and writing them in the language of the people who need to hear them.

 Strategic advisory
We act as your second brain, helping shape your value proposition, test assumptions and align messaging with what partners and funders need to hear.

Facilitation & coaching
Our team trains researchers and academics in positioning, writing and pitching -Â everything you need to highlight the commercial potential of your work.Â

Partnership & stakeholder engagement
We help manage relationships across academia, government and industry, ensuring clear, timely and strategic communication at every touchpoint.

FREE WORKSHOP
Confident you can write it—just need a head start?
Win more grants without wasting time, energy or your sanity
Kickstart your grant-writing success with our free online workshop—built for researchers who want to do it right, from the start.
ACCESS THE WORKSHOPAbout Straight Up
Founded by scientist-turned-communicator Damia Ettakadoumi, Straight Up is a specialist team of science-savvy writers, strategists and designers. We’ve been helping Australia’s brightest minds turn complex ideas into compelling narratives for nearly 20 years.
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