Victorian manufacturers can now apply for grants of up to $500,000 to support and expand their operations, under a $20m drive by the State Government to boost competitiveness and drive new jobs.
The Business Competitiveness Program is a key plank of Premier Daniel Andrews’s Government’s $60m Manufacturing and Industry Development Fund, launched on 27 April by the State Minister for Industry Support and Recovery, Martin Pakula, who urged businesses that are eligible to apply.
“Victoria is the manufacturing state. At the core of our strength are businesses that continually innovate and lead the way in their industries,” said Pakula. “We’re backing businesses to keep ahead of the pack because we know that it means more jobs for Victorians and an even stronger future for the sector.”
The Business Competitiveness Program will help eligible Victorian manufacturers implement new manufacturing technologies and processes. Grants will cover up to one-third of eligible project costs. The program will help to secure Victoria’s sovereign manufacturing capability by improving productivity, creating sustainable local jobs, increasing industry competitiveness and strengthening local supply chains in key sectors including medtech and food manufacturing. Grants can go towards the purchase and commissioning of capital equipment, manufacturing product and process improvements and supply chain capability development.
Another initiative under the Manufacturing and Industry Development Fund will open in coming months, providing grant support to growing businesses for projects that help them capitalise on new opportunities. The Fund is expected to create hundreds of new jobs, with funding spread over three years to boost the capabilities of Victorian businesses so they can expand and generate ongoing job growth.
For more information about the Business Competitiveness Program and to apply for a grant, go to: