State Government grants of up to $25,000 are now available to help regional businesses improve their competitiveness and engage with major projects in Western Australia.

Commerce Minister Michael Mischin said the second regional round of the Industry Facilitation and Support Program (IFSP) would enable eligible small to medium-sized businesses to apply for up to $25,000 in matched funding through the State Government’s Royalties for Regions program.

“There are many opportunities for regional businesses and economies to benefit from major projects happening across Western Australia,” Mr Mischin said.

“Engaging local businesses and supporting them in entering new markets and supply chains strengthens local economies bringing enormous flow-on benefits to communities.

“A total of $400,000 was awarded to 31 companies in the first round, resulting in the creation of more than 20 new jobs, six apprenticeship positions and generating almost 70 contracts worth more than $21 million.

“Grants were used to purchase new equipment, upgrade facilities, engage expert consultants and provide staff with specialised training.”

Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said the second round of the program had been broadened, with the amount available increasing from $20,000 to $25,000 and the turnover threshold cap boosted.

Mr Redman said eligible sectors had expanded to include agribusiness and tourism and previous IFSP recipients would also be eligible to apply.

“I am pleased to see Royalties for Regions funding supporting regional businesses and economies to engage in major markets and also look beyond our borders to national and international supply chains,” he said.

“The IFSP assists businesses to increase their competitiveness and help them succeed as suppliers to major market including the resources, utilities, food, tourism and government sectors.”

Visit http://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/industry-and-innovation/industry-facilitation-and-support-program-ifsp-regional-round-2 for more information.

Commerce Minister’s office – 6552 5600
Regional Development Minister’s office – 6552 6700