Grants in Manufacturing

Early-stage commercialisation projects encompass the entire process, starting from feasibility studies and proof-of-concept development, all the way to producing and testing early prototypes in simulated or theoretical settings. The grants support projects and business activities aimed at validating the commercial potential of your innovative products, processes, or services.

Solar Sunshot – Round 2 is part of the Australian Government’s broader $1 billion Solar Sunshot Program, delivered by ARENA. This round focuses on inputs to solar PV modules and deployment technologies, aiming to strengthen Australia’s solar manufacturing capabilities and reduce deployment costs. Its objectives include advancing and automating the production of solar module components to support local manufacturing, increasing cost competitiveness and resilience across solar module inputs and related technologies, scaling up domestic solar PV deployment, and encouraging innovative approaches to reduce the overall cost of solar PV implementation.

The Powering the Regions Fund's Safeguard Transformation Stream Round 2 grant offers up to $50 million to trade-exposed facilities, enabling them to decrease emissions and support Australia's emissions reduction goals.

NSW grant for pilot and demonstration projects that accelerate clean technology commercial readiness in manufacturing.

The Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme offers financial aid to both businesses and individuals, helping offset the expenses associated with transporting goods via sea routes. It specifically targets eligible non-bulk goods, aiming to level the playing field for Tasmanian industries. Given the geographical constraints that limit interstate transportation options to road or rail, this scheme ensures Tasmanian shippers can compete on par with counterparts in other markets.

The Australia-UK Renewable Hydrogen Innovation Partnerships is a 3-year program, spanning from 2023-24 to 2025-26, emblematic of the Australian Government's commitment to global collaboration in clean energy and technology. Aligned with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement, this initiative underscores Australia's dedication to meeting international climate obligations. Announced on 31 July 2023, this program is a pivotal element of the joint funding call with the United Kingdom (UK), complemented by the UK Government's (Innovate UK) Australia-UK Renewable Hydrogen Innovation Competition. In line with the Government's Strategic International Partnerships measure, the program provides Australian companies with funding support of up to $10 million for hydrogen research, development, and demonstration projects conducted in collaboration with UK companies. Projects must align with the objectives outlined in both the Australian Government’s National Hydrogen Strategy and the State of Hydrogen 2022 report. This includes the production of renewable hydrogen and derivatives, and the use of hydrogen in hard-to-abate industries, such as iron and steelmaking, chemicals and heavy transport sectors.

The Industry Growth Program offers support to innovative small and medium enterprises (SMEs) engaged in commercialisation and/or growth projects within the priority areas of the National Reconstruction Fund (NRF). This program comprises Advisory Services and opportunities for matched grant funding. Businesses that have received Advisory Services through the program are eligible to apply for matched grant funding to enhance their projects.

The Manufacturing Energy Efficiency Grant (MEEG) Program, funded at $7.1 million by the Queensland Government, supports the manufacturing sector in enhancing its competitiveness in a low-carbon future. This is achieved through the implementation of energy-efficient measures that reduce both energy costs and operational emissions. Queensland-based manufacturers who aim to improve energy efficiency, adopt advanced technology, lower energy consumption and associated expenses, reduce emissions, and promote energy awareness are encouraged to apply.

The Made in Victoria - Manufacturing Growth Program Round 2 is designed to promote business investment in sectors where Victoria holds a substantial competitive edge, with a focus on generating employment opportunities and ensuring the long-term sustainability and prosperity of these industries. The program's primary aim is to help small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMEs) in Victoria who are in a phase of growth and require support to extend their manufacturing operations, with the subsequent objectives: - enhancing their capacity and capabilities through the adoption of new manufacturing technologies, as outlined in the Made in Victoria 2030 Manufacturing Statement; - enhancing productivity and competitiveness within local and global supply chains; - facilitating the creation of new employment opportunities and the development of worker skills; - contributing to Victoria's transition towards net-zero emissions.