** Shares of Sparc Technologies SPN.AX rise 3% to A$0.170

** Stock set for its strongest session since February 18, if current gains hold

** The graphene tech co says that in partnership with Flinders University, it has been awarded funding under Australia's Economic Accelerator (AEA) Ignite grant programme

** Grant funds of A$353,098 ($220,686.25) will accelerate the development of graphene-enhanced nets to reduce buildup of unwanted organisms in fish farming

** This technology has the potential to result in a significant reduction in fish farm operational costs, others - co

** About 99,628 shares change hands, 1.4 times the 30-day average of 72,863

** Stock up 6.3% YTD, including current session's moves

($1 = 1.6000 Australian dollars)

(Reporting by Manasi Dasa in Bengaluru)

((Manasi.DasaSundeep@thomsonreuters.com;))