Queensland’s small and medium businesses can now apply for grants of up to $50,000 to help them grow and create jobs.
Minister for Employment and Small Business Di Farmer said $2.5 million of Business Growth Fund grants will help established businesses to get to the next level.
“The Business Growth Fund grants are the first in a package of $25 million of new grants unveiled as part of Queensland Small Business Month,” Ms Farmer said.
“The package also includes new programs, Business Basics and Business Boost, which will open for applications later this month and next financial year.”
The Minister said the State Government’s investment of a further $25 million in grants is a response to the feedback received from the state-wide Small Business Roadshow and an online survey.
“Small businesses have told us our grants have helped them survive the impacts of COVID-19 and we have listened to structure the new grants program based on direct feedback from thousands of small business owners,” Ms Farmer said.
“We know that small businesses across Queensland are at distinctly different stages, and that’s why our new support programs reflect this, and will deliver additional funding to ensure more businesses bounce back better.
The Minister said in response to feedback from the small business sector, there will be more assistance with the application process and greater lead in time after the release of criteria for each grant program allowing small business owners time to plan and prepare.
“A new requirement for the Business Growth Fund is that applicants have a mentoring session to support them to fully explore their business proposition and how best to take bold steps for their future,” Ms Farmer said.
“This is to support the businesses to ensure that this program can help position them for success.
“The Business Growth Fund aims to help evolving small and medium sized businesses to buy highly specialised equipment to accelerate growth opportunities.
“We want to make it as easy as possible for more businesses to apply for the $25 million in grants on offer over the next two years.
“As a result we have simplified and streamlined application processes for small businesses.”
To learn more about the grants and how to apply visit the Business Queensland website – www.business.qld.gov.au or call 1300 654 687.
New grant funding schedule
Business Growth Fund
Applications open – 11 May 2021
Business Basics
Applications open – 31 May late
Guidelines/FAQs available – 17 May 2021
Business Boost
Applications open – late July 2021
Guidelines FAQs/available – mid July 2021
