The McGowan Government has launched GroundSwell to assist small regional businesses accelerate their growth, create jobs, become more globally competitive and ride out the effects of COVID-19.
Expressions of interest are now open for experienced organisations that deliver programs to assist regional businesses realise performance improvements and adopt technology for enhanced penetration into external markets.
The GroundSwell program will provide grants of up to $200,000 to deliver targeted entrepreneurship and technology training and support programs in regional Western Australia.
The program is specifically designed to assist regional entrepreneurs build globally competitive and diverse businesses through improved education, network building and opportunity realisation, as well as support existing regional businesses take up new and emerging technologies and business models.
Additional consideration will be given to programs that assist enterprises to recover from the impact of COVID-19 through business transformation, and trialling innovative products and services in the commercial market.
Applications close 5pm Monday, August 10, 2020 – for more information, visit https://www.drd.wa.gov.au
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
“Getting start-ups and small business off the ground is difficult at the best of times especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic – the GroundSwell program is about ensuring we build our regional talent and support innovative businesses.
“The McGowan Government is working hard to help regional businesses adjust to the demands of the new operating environment, making sure they have the skills, knowledge and technology to stay competitive.
“This recovery phase provides an opportunity for regional operators to examine how they can pivot their current business model to protect their ventures, while opening up prospects for emerging entrepreneurs.
“It is important for us all to work together to support regional businesses so they can continue to grow and underpin our vibrant communities throughout WA.”
As stated by Innovation and ICT Minister Dave Kelly:
“The new GroundSwell grants program is aimed at organisations that build business capability, like start-up incubators and accelerators, entrepreneur mentoring and training and data and analysis, and technology-based programs.
“The McGowan Government remains committed to supporting innovative businesses in regional Western Australia. This is why $4.5 million of the $16.7 million New Industries Fund is dedicated to supporting emerging businesses and creating jobs in regional Western Australia.”
