Innovate, collaborate and commercialise with the Entrepreneur's Program
Have an idea that may have global reach? Looking to collaborate with a researcher but don't know where to start? Think your business could benefit from a mentor with extensive industry expertise?
The Entrepreneur’s Programme is an initiative of the Australian Government to provide facilitation services designed to help small to medium Australian businesses in targeted growth sectors. Mining equipment, technology and services (METS) companies, and businesses enabling oil, gas and energy production through technology and services are eligible to apply for the programme.
The programme is delivered through a network of facilitators and advisors drawn from industry, who have extensive experience in the private sector. These facilitators are spread across the country meaning regional businesses are specifically catered to, and encouraged to apply.
Originally forming part of the Australian Government's National Innovation and Science Agenda, the programme aims to help SMEs who are looking to upscale or trade, but first need upskilling or contacts to successfully:
- innovate
- collaborate
- commercialise
Through the provision of quality advice, plus networks and support, this programme goes beyond traditional monetary support schemes to provide businesses with real-life practical and expert assistance, with a focus on capability and competitiveness, economic growth, and commercialisation of new products.
Apart from relevant advice from industry experts, the programme also offers practical support for businesses, researchers and entrepreneurs in other ways, including co-funded grants to commercialise new products, processes and services, facilitating collaboration and connection opportunities, plus funding for growth.
The Entrepreneur’s programme has four elements, each with specific guidelines and supports.
ACCELERATING COMMERCIALISATION :: Helps SMEs, entrepreneurs and researchers to commercialise novel products, processes and services including assistance attracting private investment.
BUSINESS MANAGEMENT :: Provides independent advice specific to the needs of the particular business. Can include business evaluation, supply chain facilitation and growth grants up to $20,000.
INCUBATOR SUPPORT :: Funds incubators and accelerators to support innovative startups.
INNOVATION CONNECTIONS :: Helps business to collaborate with researchers and connect other appropriate sources of expertise, technology and advice. Matched grants funding up to $50,000 is available.
Austmine is an Industry Partner delivering the Entrepreneurs' Programme for the Mining Equipment, Technology and Services (METS) sector. They have six Business Advisers based around Australia and a national Business Facilitator, all specialists in the mining, oil & gas industries, who are responsible for delivering the Business Management element of the programme.
