12 small-to-medium businesses have been awarded $3.6 million in grants as part of a new industry engagement initiative launched in August last year.
Called the Industry Competitive Evaluation Research Agreement (ICERA), the initiative will provide $36 million over six years, funded through Defence’s Next Generation Technologies Fund (NGTF).
Announcing the twelve first round grant recipients, Defence Industry Minister Melissa Price said six of the 22 ICERA-backed projects focused on creating innovative cyber security capabilities.
According to the Minister, the remaining projects cover enhanced human performance, integrated ISR, quantum technologies and Advanced Sensors.
“ICERA recognises the growing importance and capability of Australian small-to-medium businesses and nowhere is this clearer than in the cyber security domain,” Minister Price said.
“The ICERA program aims to support small-to-medium businesses that are critical to enhancing our tactical and strategic edge as Australia’s strategic context continues to evolve.”
For more information about NGTF visit https://www.dst.defence.gov.au/NextGenTechFund.
