Applications now open for WA innovators seeking funding injection

• Applications are now open for Innovation Booster Grant (IBG) and Commercialisation Bridge Grant (CBG) programs
• This year has seen the maximum IBG grant amount increased to $50,000 and the CBG increased to $250,000
• Funding provided through $40 million New Industries and Innovation Fund

WA innovators are invited to take advantage of the latest round of the Innovation Booster Grant (IBG) and Commercialisation Bridge Grant (CBG) programs, which are now open.

This round of funding has also enhanced support for regional, female and First Nations-founded businesses.

Funded through the Cook Government's $40 million New Industries and Innovation Fund (NIIF), the IBG program backs early-stage founders, innovation-driven SMEs, and start-ups in Western Australia to strengthen capability and commercialise innovative projects.

Since 2021, the IBG has awarded more than $5.5 million to support 182 local innovation projects. Due to the increased NIIF, the maximum IBG amount has been upped from $40,000 to $50,000.

The IBG enables start-ups and innovative businesses to access the support services and expertise required to refine, test, protect, validate, and certify their innovation. Funds aim to enable innovators to execute their ideas and overcome barriers which often occur with a lack of resources or capital.

The CBG program, also funded through the NIIF, supports high-growth enterprises to further develop products, intellectual property and aid commercialisation readiness to bring their product or service to domestic and international markets.

Since 2024, the CBG has awarded more than $2 million to support 11 WA innovators. Grants range from $50,000 to a new maximum of $250,000.

Applications for both programs open today.

The IBG program will close on Friday, 10 October at 4pm. The CBG will close on Friday, 24 October at 4pm.

Online information sessions for applicants will be held. Information for each session can be found on the website: https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-energy-and-economic-diversification/new-industries-and-innovation-fund-grants

Comments attributed to Science and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson:

"The Cook Government is working to make Western Australia a global hub of invention, investment, innovation and impact for start-ups and scale-ups to thrive. These programs are an example of how we are supporting this vision.

"This year we have increased the funding available to innovators and introduced more support to assist businesses that are founded by women and First Nations people or based regionally.

"Through our Made in WA Plan, we have committed $40 million over four years to support start-ups, scale-ups and emerging enterprises in growing their operations and commercialising breakthrough ideas."