The Manna Institute is a virtual institute of leading researchers working with industry and community partners to improve mental health and wellbeing in rural, regional and remote Australia. It is funded by a Commonwealth grant under the Regional Research Collaboration program and aims to foster meaningful research, professional workforce development, and the translation of research findings into practical, place-based programs. We are cultivating connections, projects and opportunities to improve mental health and wellbeing in rural, regional and remote Australia. We are growing meaningful research and professional workforces, and engaging industry to translate research findings into much-needed initiatives. Ours is a virtual institute, comprising the seven members of the Regional University Network – Charles Sturt University, Central Queensland University, Federation University, Southern Cross University, the University of Southern Queensland, the University of Sunshine Coast and lead institution the University of New England.