Minns Government backs innovation to grow jobs and strengthen NSW economy

The Minns Labor Government is investing in the future of the NSW economy by backing a new wave of innovation activity that will drive jobs, attract investment and strengthen the state’s global competitiveness.

A total of 19 organisations will be supported through the latest round of the Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program; part of the Government’s push to drive innovation in NSW.

A total of $400,000 will support events and initiatives that bring together startups, researchers, investors and industry, helping turn ideas into commercial opportunities.

From innovation festivals and climate tech awards to health innovation exchanges and AI-focused programs, the funded initiatives align directly with the Government’s priorities to modernise the economy and support industries critical to the state’s future.

The sponsored events, taking place across metropolitan and regional NSW, help connect founders with the networks, capital and expertise they need to grow, with a strong focus on regional participation, inclusion and high-growth sectors.

This latest round supports initiatives aligned with the NSW Government’s Innovation Blueprint and Industry Policy, including priorities across housing, net zero and the energy transformation, and local manufacturing.

By strengthening the innovation ecosystem, the Minns Labor Government is helping to diversify the economy, drive productivity and ensure NSW remains the best place in Australia to start, grow and scale a business.

For more information on the Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program, visit www.nsw.gov.au/business-and-economy/innovation/grants-and-programs/fostering-innovation-sponsorship-program.

Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said:

“The Hunter is an innovation powerhouse and this investment puts our money where our mouth is to support the people, ideas and businesses driving our region’s future.

“This is the Minns Government backing local ideas, jobs and industry to ensure our region – and the people who power it – continues to thrive.

“By investing in the next big idea today, we’re ensuring the Hunter remains at the forefront of innovation, industry and growth for years to come.”

Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said:

“The Minns Labor Government understands that investing in innovation is investing in jobs, productivity and the long-term strength of our economy.

“Our Innovation Blueprint and Industry Policy are driving that work, backing the industries and technologies that will power growth in NSW.

“This isn’t about an announcement, it’s about delivery. Through practical initiatives, we’re supporting the people turning ideas into real businesses and connecting them with the capital and expertise they need to scale.

“And we’re making sure those opportunities are shared right across NSW, so more communities can benefit from growth.

“By aligning this investment with our priorities in clean energy, housing and local manufacturing, we’re building a stronger, more resilient economy and positioning NSW for the future under the Minns Labor Government.”

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

“Women bring different perspectives and approaches to the table. So it’s fantastic to see initiatives that back women’s innovation receiving funding under this program.

“This investment is part of the wider work we’re doing to boost women’s participation and advancement. By supporting a more inclusive and diverse innovation sector, we’re creating a stronger economy with advancements that benefit everyone.”

Western Sydney Women Founding Director Amanda Rose said:

“Western Sydney is one of the most diverse and fast-growing regions in the country, but too often women are underrepresented in the industries shaping our future.

” Women Leading AI, is about changing that – connecting women with the skills, networks and confidence to lead in AI and emerging technologies. Our event will bring together around 120 female founders, entrepreneurs, industry leaders and students, with a strong focus on culturally and linguistically diverse and underrepresented communities.

“We are grateful for the support of the NSW Government in growing a more inclusive innovation ecosystem that reflects the talent and potential of our communities.”

Hunter iF CEO Zara Crichton said:

“We’re shifting the conversation in the Hunter from ‘what if’ to ‘yes, and’ – building on the region’s industrial strengths to unlock new opportunities in emerging technologies.

“Through our festival and regional roadshow, we’ll connect people, ideas and capital to turn ambition into real outcomes. The NSW Government’s continued support is helping us scale that momentum across the region.”

EnergyLab Director and CEO Megan Fisher said:

“We are incredibly grateful for the support through the Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program, which allows us to launch the Climate Investment and Growth Series in Sydney at a defining moment for our ecosystem.

“As EnergyLab enters its tenth year, this series will bring vital attention to breakthrough startups while actively addressing the gender funding gap by empowering more women investors.

“By connecting our brightest founders with critical capital, industry and expertise, we are ensuring that Australia’s best ideas have the backing they need to scale and accelerate global decarbonisation.”

Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program – Round 4 Recipients