The Australian Government’s $400 million Industry Growth Program (IGP) is driving growth in Australian manufacturing, with over $26 million in funding awarded to 20 businesses across various sectors, including robotics, medical manufacturing, defence, and mining.
The government said in a news release that the initiative aims to bolster local supply chains, create jobs, and support business expansion.
Key recipients of the program have received grants to develop innovative technologies and solutions. For example, Allume Energy secured $3.77 million to enhance its world-first SolShare technology, which enables apartment residents to maximise their solar energy usage and cut power costs.
Another recipient, Harvest B, was awarded $2.2 million to advance a gluten-free Australian faba bean plant protein as an alternative to meat products.
Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic highlighted the program’s significance, stating, “It’s terrific to mark this milestone and see vital funding out the door and onto the factory floor of these terrific Aussie businesses, ensuring more things are made right here.”
Participants in the program benefit from specialised advisory services provided by organisations like the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC) and AusBiotech.
AMGC, awarded $1.9 million, will focus on guiding recipients in sectors such as transport, defence, and resource value-add.
Meanwhile, AusBiotech received $2 million to deliver commercialisation advice to biotech and medtech businesses.
“We’re serious about backing local know-how,” Husic added. “That’s why we’re ensuring growing businesses have the support they need to increase our manufacturing capability and keep more jobs here in Australia.”
Other recipients include Cyborg Dynamics Engineering, which received $597,000 to advance robotics for military and conservation purposes, and Seed Terminator, awarded $3.1 million to scale up technology for weed seed destruction during harvesting.
Additionally, Tetrisize Oceania secured $200,000 to test its unique conveyor system technology.
Grants under the IGP are divided into two streams. Early-Stage Commercialisation grants provide matched funding between $50,000 and $250,000, while Commercialisation and Growth grants range from $100,000 to $5 million, supporting projects from prototyping to market readiness.
The program’s open-ended advisory service ensures businesses can access expert guidance before applying for funding.
For more information on eligibility and application, businesses are encouraged to visit business.gov.au/igprecipients.
