The Australian Manufacturing Capability Network (AMCN) is now actively supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Australia to commercialise innovative products and services, marking a significant step forward for the nation’s manufacturing sector.
Launched by the Australian Government in May 2024, the AMCN operates as an Industry Partner Organisation under the government’s new Industry Growth Program (IGP), as revealed in a news release.
This initiative, a key component of the National Reconstruction Fund, is designed to bolster the future of Australian manufacturing by fostering innovation and growth.
The AMCN represents a collaborative national effort, bringing together industry, government, and academia. It is spearheaded by the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing (ARM) Hub, based in Queensland, which leads the network’s initiatives.
Over the past three months, AMCN partners have been developing tailored services to assist startups and SMEs in applying for the IGP, with a focus on providing deep technical expertise in areas like robotics, artificial intelligence, and autonomous systems.
The network hosted yesterday its first masterclass webinar on generative AI for technology and manufacturing businesses, signalling the start of its active engagement with the industry.
Professor Cori Stewart, founder and CEO of ARM Hub, expressed her excitement about the network’s pivotal role in this government initiative.
“It is gratifying to now see the network in action, providing crucial technical support that enables SMEs and startups to become global innovation leaders,” Professor Stewart stated.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with the Industry Growth Program and thank the Australian Government for this opportunity. The network is committed to strengthening sovereign manufacturing capability and growing the national economy.”
Australian Government Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic, announced that AMCN is one of four not-for-profit organisations collaborating with the IGP to help participating SMEs bring new products and services to market.
The IGP offers expert advice on commercialisation and early-stage business growth, particularly for businesses operating in the priority areas identified by the National Reconstruction Fund.
This month, the first five companies to receive IGP funding were announced.
As an Industry Partner Organisation, the AMCN complements the IGP by offering specialised advisory services based on its extensive expertise in various sectors.
Professor Stewart pointed out the challenges faced by Australian industry, especially the ‘missing middle’ of ambitious export-oriented SMEs and startups.
“Small businesses, which make up 96% of all Australian businesses, often struggle with low levels of free cash flow and limited human resources, which can hinder their ability to invest in and scale innovation,” she noted.
The AMCN addresses these challenges by connecting SMEs with a comprehensive network of technology experts and essential commercialisation services.
The network includes institutions such as CSIRO, Flinders University, Swinburne University of Technology, the Queensland Government, University of Technology Sydney, and Western Sydney University.
It is further supported by technology partners, specialist providers, and venture capital investors.
