The ARC's Linkage funding schemes aim to: encourage and extend cooperative approaches to research; and improve the use of research outcomes by strengthening links within the innovation system in Australia and internationally. Linkage promotes national and international research partnerships between researchers and: business; industry; community organisations; and other publicly funded research agencies. Through these partnerships, the ARC encourages the transfer of skills, knowledge and ideas as a basis for securing commercial and other benefits of research. The Linkage schemes are: ARC Centres of Excellence Industrial Transformation Research Program Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment and Facilities Linkage Learned Academies Special Projects Linkage Projects Special Research Initiatives Early Career Industry Fellowships Mid-Career Industry Fellowships Industry Laureate Fellowships The National Competitive Grants Program (NCGP) is currently undergoing a comprehensive review. As a result, existing programs and schemes are expected to evolve, with changes being progressively introduced to improve transparency, security, and alignment with national priorities. For information on the review, see: Update on the future of ARC funded research