Grants and funding for defence businesses

Funding can play an important role in helping defence businesses develop capability, support innovation and pursue export opportunities. Understanding which programs align with your business — and what makes a compelling application — is an essential starting point.

What did the presentation cover?

In her Land Forces 2026 presentation, Kate Whitehead explored grants and funding opportunities for the defence sector, with a focus on aligning business projects with Defence priorities. Thank you to everyone who joined the session. Whether you attended, missed the talk or would like to revisit a particular topic, you can explore the slides and video on this page.

Defence industry funding and capability development

Kate explored the Defence Industry Development Grants program and its streams covering sovereign industrial priorities, exports, skilling and security. A central theme was the importance of demonstrating a meaningful role in the defence supply chain. Beyond describing a promising product or project, businesses need to consider how their proposed investment aligns with identified priorities and provides evidence of demand.

Export support and international opportunities

The presentation also examined Export Market Development Grants and Export Finance Australia, highlighting different forms of support relevant to businesses pursuing international markets. For businesses considering export growth, understanding the distinction between grant assistance and finance is an important part of assessing the available options.

Research, development and the broader incentives landscape

Kate discussed the Research and Development Tax Incentive, alongside proposed changes outlined in the presentation. The session also touched on Early Stage Innovation Company incentives and loss refundability for eligible start-ups. These topics sit within a broader funding landscape where eligibility, timing and the strength of supporting evidence matter.

A key takeaway: align your project with the funding opportunity

A strong funding strategy starts with your business objectives and the project you want to deliver. Kate’s presentation emphasised the importance of matching that project to the purpose of the relevant program — particularly where funding is intended to support priority defence capabilities rather than early-stage innovation or commercialisation.

• What are you seeking to achieve?
• Which program is the right fit?
• What evidence supports your case?

Watch the presentation

Watch Kate’s Land Forces 2026 session below to explore the discussion in more detail.

View the presentation slides

Browse the slides alongside the video, or revisit the topics most relevant to your business.

Grants and funding update – Land Forces Slideshow 2026

The presentation reflects information available at the time it was prepared. Program availability, eligibility requirements and proposed policy changes should be checked against current official guidance before making decisions.

Discuss your funding options with Avant Group

If the presentation raises questions about your business’s funding opportunities, get in touch with Avant Group to discuss your project and the support that may be relevant.

Contact us: [email protected]