Applications have opened for Western Australia’s Innovation Booster Grant (IBG) and Commercialisation Bridge Grant (CBG) programs, offering funding to local innovators and early-stage businesses. The grants are part of the $40 million New Industries and Innovation Fund, aimed at supporting start-ups, SMEs, and high-growth enterprises in refining ideas and bringing products to market.
This year, the maximum IBG grant has increased from $40,000 to $50,000, while the CBG now offers up to $250,000. Both programs also place a stronger emphasis on supporting regional businesses, women-led ventures, and enterprises founded by First Nations Australians.
Since its inception in 2021, the IBG program has awarded more than $5.5 million to 182 projects, helping innovators access the expertise and resources needed to develop, test, protect, and validate their ideas. The CBG, operating since 2024, has distributed over $2 million to 11 enterprises, supporting commercialisation readiness and product development for both domestic and international markets.
Applications for the IBG close at 4pm on Friday, 10 October, and for the CBG at 4pm on Friday, 24 October. Online information sessions are available to guide applicants through the process. Details can be found on the Western Australia government website.
Science and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson said the programs reflect the state government’s commitment to making Western Australia a hub for invention and investment. He highlighted the increased funding and additional support for underrepresented groups, noting the initiative is part of the Made in WA Plan, which dedicates $40 million over four years to help start-ups and scale-ups grow and commercialise innovative ideas.
The latest round of grants aims to provide both financial support and practical guidance, enabling local innovators to overcome resource barriers and transform ideas into market-ready solutions. It signals a continued focus on nurturing the state’s innovation ecosystem and strengthening its position in global markets.
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