![The Local Drinks Co.](https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/The-Local-Drinks-Co.-696x484.jpg)
Western Australia-based small manufacturing businesses are among the eight successful applicants that will share a total of $696,254 in government funding.
The investment is part of the McGowan government’s Regional Economic Development (RED) grants program, which is now in its fifth round and is aimed at driving economic development and supporting regional communities in WA.
A total of $98,305 will go towards Thurlby Herb Farm, which plans to establish new manufacturing facilities that will increase capacity and unlock opportunities for the business, expanding its product range in retail outlets across the country.
Meanwhile, Local Drinks Co is slated to receive a total of $57,125 to purchase equipment that would enable the company to boost operations and manufacture products that are shelf-stable, all-natural, and preservatives-free.
Over a span of eight years, the RED grants program has invested $45.8 million across WA’s regions, driving economic development, and supporting regional communities.
“Across Western Australia, Regional Economic Development Grants have made a positive impact on local business and industry,” said Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan.
“With the latest funding allocations, RED Grants will continue to support growth and diversification in regional Western Australia – supporting business, industry and jobs,” the minister added.
Previous recipients of the grant include RCR Mining Technologies, which has developed a novel robotic welder solution designed to increase production capability.