Funding

https://www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/employing/planning-workforce/industry-workforce-advisors

South East Queensland (SEQ) Innovation Economy Fund

Key Words

Fee Structure

1. Engagement Fee: This upfront fee can cover initial consultations, research, and preliminary application preparation. It typically ranges from $1,500 to $5,000 depending on the complexity of the application and the scope of work involved.
2. Success Fee: After securing funding, a percentage of the funds received is charged. This is often set between 5% to 10% of the total amount granted. For example, if a client receives $100,000 in funding, a 10% fee would amount to $10,000.

Example Structure

• Engagement Fee: $3,000
• Success Fee: 7% of the total funding received

Online Articles Related to Funding

A meat processing business could be considered for funding under the South East Queensland (SEQ) Innovation Economy Fund if the project aligns with the fund’s objectives. Specifically, the fund focuses on supporting industries involved in innovation, infrastructure development, and creating high-value, knowledge-intensive jobs. While the primary focus is on sectors such as agriculture, food innovation, and manufacturing, a meat processing company could qualify if the proposed project involves innovative approaches, such as improving sustainability, efficiency, or incorporating new technologies like automation or robotics.

To improve your chances, your project should highlight how it enhances the local innovation economy, creates jobs, and supports broader economic or environmental goals. For example, introducing advanced processing technologies or reducing environmental impact could align with the fund's priorities. https://granthelper.com.au/government-grant-news/seq-innovation-economy-fund/ Ministerial media statements: https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/101524

The South East Queensland (SEQ) Innovation Economy Fund is a major initiative with over $150 million in funding aimed at strengthening the innovation ecosystem in the region. It is part of a larger $1.8 billion partnership between the Australian Government, the Queensland Government, and the Council of Mayors (SEQ). This fund seeks to support infrastructure projects that will foster high-value, knowledge-intensive jobs and drive innovation across SEQ.

Projects eligible for funding include new builds, refurbishments, and the acquisition of new equipment that contribute to the innovation infrastructure in the region. The fund prioritizes industries such as agriculture and food innovation, biomedical, energy transformation, and manufacturing, alongside growth sectors like AI, robotics, and sustainable energy solutions. Funding of up to $25 million is available for major capital projects, while smaller projects can apply for up to $5 million.

The fund encourages collaborations between government, industry, and academia, and is open to local governments, public entities, and private sector entities based in eligible SEQ areas. Applications for the current round close on 22 November 2024

There are several funding opportunities you can explore:

1. Advance Queensland’s Ignite Ideas Fund: This program supports businesses with innovative products or processes. While traditionally focused on tech and innovation, the fund can also apply to innovative approaches in meat processing, such as sustainability, efficiency, or new product development. The program offers grants up to $200,000, which could help with commercializing new techniques or expanding into new markets​ Advance Queensland.
   
2. Queensland Treasury Programs:
   • Backing Business in the Bush Fund: If your company operates in a regional area, this fund offers financial support to small and medium enterprises, aiming to drive regional economic development​Queensland Treasury.
   • Queensland Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Jobs Fund: If your company is focusing on reducing energy consumption or integrating renewable energy into its operations, this fund may provide support for green initiatives.

https://advance.qld.gov.au/

https://www.treasury.qld.gov.au/

Avant Group specializes in supporting businesses with grants and funding strategies, including those in the food and agriculture sectors. Their services include identifying applicable funding sources, assisting in grant applications, and providing ongoing support throughout the funding process.

For a meat processing company, funding opportunities may include programs focused on:

1. Sustainability Initiatives: Funds aimed at improving energy efficiency, reducing waste, or adopting innovative practices in meat processing.
2. Innovation Grants: Programs like the SEQ Innovation Economy Fund that support innovative projects within agriculture and food sectors ​GrantHelper ​Ministerial Media Statements.
   
3. Research and Development Funding: Grants available for projects that aim to develop new technologies or processes in meat production.
4. Regional Development Programs: Various state and federal programs that provide funding to support local businesses and economic growth in specific regions, particularly in Queensland​Ministerial Media Statements​GrantHelper.

In Queensland, there are various funding opportunities available for businesses in the meat processing sector. For example, the Rural Agricultural Development (RAD) Grants program provides up to $200,000 to support projects that enhance the sale and value of agricultural products, including meat processing. This initiative is particularly aimed at creating jobs and boosting economic development in rural areas​

Qrida.

Additionally, programs like the Clean Technology Food and Foundries Investment Program offer cash grants to help companies improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. For instance, Teys Australia received significant funding to enhance energy efficiency at their meat processing sites in Queensland​

AIFS. This type of funding could be applicable to a meat processing business looking to invest in sustainable practices.

Moreover, the South East Queensland (SEQ) Innovation Economy Fund supports innovation across various sectors, including food processing. While specifics regarding eligibility for meat processing companies weren't explicitly mentioned, businesses that demonstrate innovative practices or technologies could potentially qualify​

Qrida​ Qrida.

For more detailed information on funding opportunities specifically for meat processing companies in Queensland, you might find the following links helpful:

• Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) for the RAD Grants program.
• Avant Group's funding opportunities page for insights on available grants and support.

https://www.qrida.qld.gov.au/

Potential funding sources for your project in Queensland:

1. Made in Queensland (MIQ): This program offers grants to small and medium-sized manufacturers in Queensland to boost competitiveness, productivity, and innovation. Grants range from $50,000 to $2.5 million and are aimed at projects involving industry-leading equipment, technologies, and processes, especially those that enhance energy efficiency and sustainability. The next round of applications closes on January 24, 2025​Qrida​Regional Development Department.
   
2. Queensland Government Grants Finder: This online tool allows you to search for various grants available from the Queensland Government, including those related to business development, innovation, and industry support. You can filter by category and find relevant grants that suit your specific needselopment Fund**: This fund supports Queensland-based businesses with funding to expand and innovate. It aims to encourage job creation and economic growth by investing in businesses looking to develop new products or expand their market presence .
3. Local and rograms: Various programs aim to support local initiatives, enhance regional development, and improve economic resilience. These may include grants for specific projects or funding for infrastructure improvements 【56†source】.
4. **Investment Attractio ​Qrida designed to attract new investments in Queensland, particularly in high-impact industries. If your project has the potential to create significant economic benefits or job opportunities, it may qualify for support .
   
5. Innovation and Technology Programs: Vaocus on fostering innovation and technology development, including grants for research and development, commercialization of new technologies, and collaborations with research institutions.

The South Australia Export Accelerator (SAEA) Program offers funding for South Australian businesses aiming to expand into international markets. There are three main categories under the program:

1. Emerging Exporter Grant – Up to $5,000 for businesses exporting for the first time.
2. New Market Entry Grant – Up to $15,000 for businesses entering new export markets.
3. Export Accelerator Grant – Up to $30,000 for businesses planning to expand and create ongoing jobs.

Eligible businesses must be registered in South Australia, actively trading for at least 24 months, with an annual turnover between $100,000 and $15 million. The program covers 50% of expenses related to activities such as marketing materials, market research, participation in international trade shows, e-commerce development, export training, and inbound buyer support. Applications are competitive and are assessed in funding rounds held throughout the year​

Amazon Web Services, Inc.​Avant Group.

The Boost Your Business Program (VIC) is an initiative by the Victorian Government that offers vouchers to support small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in sectors like advanced manufacturing, food innovation, defence, aerospace, social enterprise, and more. These vouchers, which can be worth up to $50,000, aim to help businesses with activities such as developing new products, improving business processes, exploring export markets, and engaging in research and development.

Eligibility varies based on the specific stream (like Asia Gateway or Social Enterprise Capability), and the program encourages collaboration with industry experts and universities. Additional support is available for entrepreneurs with disabilities, reflecting a focus on inclusivity in the program's third round​

Premier of Victoria​Premier of Victoria.

The Victorian Business Growth Fund (VBGF) is a $250 million initiative designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Victoria that have strong growth potential. The fund aims to address the difficulty SMEs face in accessing affordable capital, which can hinder their expansion. The Victorian Government, along with industry superannuation funds like First State Super and VicSuper, has contributed to this initiative.

Key highlights:

• The VBGF focuses on helping SMEs that have the potential to create jobs and grow the Victorian economy.
• It targets businesses that are well-established and need capital to expand their operations.
• Investments are managed by an independent fund manager, appointed through a competitive process.
• This initiative complements other government programs aimed at fostering business growth, such as the Victorian Jobs and Investment Fund and various tax cuts.

The guidelines for accessing the VBGF include demonstrating a strong business case for expansion and job creation, as well as meeting eligibility criteria relating to business size and industry​

business.gov.au​Premier of Victoria.

The Jobs for NSW Fund provided financial assistance to businesses to foster job creation and stimulate economic growth within the state. The guidelines for this fund typically included several key areas:

1. Eligibility: Applicants needed to demonstrate how their project would create jobs in NSW, with a preference for initiatives in high-growth industries or regional areas. Projects already receiving NSW government assistance were not eligible for direct duplication of funding​NSW Government.
   
2. Funding Use: The fund could be used for various business expenses, including infrastructure development, equipment purchases, and other project-specific costs, provided they were aligned with job creation​NSW Government.
   
3. Co-Contribution Requirements: In many cases, businesses were required to provide a co-contribution of at least 50%, which could include in-kind contributions in certain cases, such as donated land or equipment​NSW Government​NSW Government.

For information about the Jobs for NSW fund guidelines and FAQs, there are several relevant programs you can explore. For instance, the Regional Job Creation Fund (RJCF) focuses on projects in regional New South Wales, aiming to create and retain jobs through grants. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, such as being an Australian company, partnership, or sole trader, and they need to demonstrate the project's alignment with NSW government strategies. Key requirements include having public liability insurance and a minimum 50% cash co-contribution​

NSW Government​NSW Government.

Additionally, funding cannot be used for pre-existing projects or those that started before grant approval. Eligible costs include non-fixed and used equipment, provided they are part of a larger project. Applicants also need to show how the project would benefit the regional NSW economy​

NSW Government.

To provide a comprehensive list of all funding sources available across Australian states for various business types, here's an overview of key federal and state-based grants, their eligibility, and primary focus areas:

Australia-Wide (Federal)

1. Entrepreneurs' Programme (Business Development)
   • Grant Amount: Up to $1 million.
   • Requirements: Focus on innovation, R&D, commercialization, or scaling up.
   • Eligible Businesses: Small to medium enterprises (SMEs) across all industries.
   • Activities: Business growth, R&D, process innovation, product commercialization.
2. Research and Development (R&D) Tax Incentive
   • Grant Amount: 38.5%-43.5% tax offset on eligible R&D costs.
   • Requirements: Must be involved in R&D activities.
   • Eligible Businesses: Companies of all sizes across Australia.
   • Activities: R&D activities leading to new products, services, or processes.
3. Export Market Development Grant (EMDG)
   • Grant Amount: Up to $150,000 annually.
   • Requirements: Focus on international marketing to grow exports.
   • Eligible Businesses: Small to medium enterprises (SMEs) exporting products or services.
   • Activities: Overseas marketing, promotional activities, advertising, trade shows.

New South Wales (NSW)

1. Jobs for NSW Fund
   • Grant Amount: Up to $10 million.
   • Requirements: Job creation in NSW, growth and innovation potential.
   • Eligible Businesses: High-growth companies and startups.
   • Activities: Business expansion, innovation, tech-driven projects.
2. Regional Jobs Creation Fund
   • Grant Amount: Up to $10 million.
   • Requirements: Located in regional NSW, job creation focus.
   • Eligible Businesses: Regional businesses aiming to create jobs.
   • Activities: Expansion, new projects creating employment.

Victoria

1. Business Growth Fund
   • Grant Amount: Up to $500,000.
   • Requirements: Focus on business expansion and job creation in Victoria.
   • Eligible Businesses: SMEs based in Victoria.
   • Activities: Equipment, expansion, new market development.
2. Boost Your Business Program
   • Grant Amount: $5,000 - $50,000.
   • Requirements: Focus on digitalization, export, or innovation.
   • Eligible Businesses: Small and medium businesses seeking growth through innovation.
   • Activities: Innovation, process improvement, product development.

Queensland

1. Made in Queensland (MIQ)
   • Grant Amount: $50,000 - $2.5 million.
   • Requirements: For manufacturers aiming to improve productivity or sustainability​ Regional Development Department.
   • Eligible Businesses: Manufacturing SMEs.
   • Activities: New equipment, tech upgrades, process improvements.
2. Rural Economic Development (RED) Grants
   • Grant Amount: Up to $250,000.
   • Requirements: Must benefit rural or regional communities in Queensland.
   • Eligible Businesses: Rural and regional businesses focusing on expansion.
   • Activities: Infrastructure upgrades, job creation, supply chain improvements.

South Australia

1. Research, Commercialisation and Startup Fund (RCSF)
   • Grant Amount: $50,000 to $1 million.
   • Requirements: Focus on commercialization and innovation.
   • Eligible Businesses: SMEs and startups in South Australia.
   • Activities: R&D, commercialization of new products, market entry.
2. SA Export Accelerator Program
   • Grant Amount: Up to $30,000.
   • Requirements: Must be exporting goods or services.
   • Eligible Businesses: South Australian businesses entering international markets.
   • Activities: Export market entry, promotional activities, trade show attendance.

Western Australia

1. Regional Economic Development (RED) Grants
   • Grant Amount: Up to $250,000.
   • Requirements: Must benefit regional WA economies.
   • Eligible Businesses: Regional businesses focused on job creation and economic growth.
   • Activities: Infrastructure upgrades, business expansion.
2. Innovation Vouchers Program
   • Grant Amount: Up to $20,000.
   • Requirements: Innovation, technology, or research-based projects.
   • Eligible Businesses: SMEs focused on innovation in Western Australia.
   • Activities: R&D, product commercialization, market readiness.

Tasmania

1. Business Growth Loan Scheme
   • Loan Amount: Up to $3 million.
   • Requirements: Business must create jobs or have a growth focus.
   • Eligible Businesses: SMEs expanding or innovating.
   • Activities: Capital investments, business expansion, product development.
2. Enterprise Centres Tasmania
   • Grant Amount: Business advisory service (free).
   • Requirements: Startups and SMEs needing business advice.
   • Eligible Businesses: All businesses seeking support.
   • Activities: Business advisory, growth planning, and market expansion.

Northern Territory

1. Business Growth Program
   • Grant Amount: Up to $10,000.
   • Requirements: Must be a Northern Territory-based business.
   • Eligible Businesses: SMEs focused on growth, market development.
   • Activities: Business improvement, market expansion, innovation.
2. NT Infrastructure Development Fund
   • Grant Amount: Case-by-case.
   • Requirements: Infrastructure projects that benefit NT economy.
   • Eligible Businesses: Infrastructure, manufacturing, and construction.
   • Activities: Infrastructure upgrades, construction projects.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

1. Innovation Connect Grant
   • Grant Amount: $5,000 to $30,000.
   • Requirements: Focus on innovation and commercialization.
   • Eligible Businesses: ACT-based startups and SMEs.
   • Activities: Product development, R&D, commercialization.
2. Future Skills for Future Jobs Grant
   • Grant Amount: Up to $200,000.
   • Requirements: Job creation and skills development.
   • Eligible Businesses: ACT businesses focused on future workforce development.
   • Activities: Workforce training, job creation.

These funding sources vary by state and cover a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, innovation, and export. Each state has unique opportunities for SMEs, with some programs focused on regional development and job creation.

STATE NOMINATION QUESTIONS (QLD)

Please introduce your own background and talk about your skill set. If you're operating a business, please describe your business and your involvement in it.

Well, the next question then falls to me. So can you provide an overview of your investment project? And just give us an understanding of what your investment targets specifically are? Okay, so our investment target is to produce some breeding equipment. The breeding farm is mainly to raise some Australian lobsters.

Yeah, so my question is, so can you tell us why do you choose Queensland? And have you considered other states? And also, have you contacted like any other organizations or like other companies or for potential partnership for your projects?

So, my question is, so can you tell us why do you choose Queensland? And have you considered other states? And also, have you contacted like any other organizations or for potential partnership for your projects? So, my question is, so can you tell us why do you choose Queensland? And also, have you contacted like any other organizations or for potential partnership for your projects?

So, in terms of the amount of funding that you're looking at, you've got your five million initially to be followed by a further 60 million from investors to support the future growth. What's the number of staff that you'd be looking to hire for the facility?

So, in terms of the steps going forward, we'll assess the responses to the questions today and then make a determination whether we make a recommendation or not. And we should be able to give you the outcome within the next two to three weeks.