A complete handbook for small business grants in Australia 

Are you a small business owner in Australia looking for financial assistance so you can grow and thrive? This comprehensive handbook will guide you through the range of small business grants and funding opportunities available to small businesses in Australia. From federal programs to industry-specific grants, learn about the different types of support available and how you can apply for them. Let’s dive in and help you power your business forward.   

Understanding small business grants 

Small business grants, including startup business grants, can be a game-changer for your company. Imagine receiving financial assistance without the burden of repayment or interest charges. These grants, also known as program grants, are typically under $10,000 and are offered by the government and industry-specific organisations in Australia. While the application process for a small business grant can be time-consuming, the the potential benefits for your business make it a worthwhile investment.  

But how do you navigate the world of grants and find the right one for your business? Read on to find out. 

Quick links to help you navigate:

• What are the types of grants available for small businesses in Australia? 
• Federal grant opportunities
• State/territory-specific grants
• Industry-focused grants: targeting growth sectors 
• Applying for small business grants 
• How does the Australian government support small businesses? 

What are the types of grants available for small businesses in Australia? 

Australia has a range of grants available for small businesses, including those provided by the federal government, state governments, not-for-profits, and private businesses. Popular grant programs include the CSIRO Kick-Start Program, Research and Development Tax Incentive, and Export grants. Additionally, regional grants and grants tailored to specific borrower types are available. 

Whether you’re looking for federal grant opportunities like the Australian Apprenticeship Incentives Program (AAIP), CSIRO Kick-Start Grant, or state/territory-specific grants. 

Eligibility criteria 

Before you dive into the world of grants, it’s crucial to understand the eligibility criteria for each program. Most grants are designed to address specific financial issues, and being a small business alone may not qualify you. 

To be eligible for small business grants in Australia, you must: 

• Have an Australian Business Number (ABN)
• Be based in Australia
• Meet specific industry and business requirements

Keep these criteria in mind as you explore the various grant opportunities available to your business.¹ 

Federal grant opportunities

Now that you have a better understanding of small business grants and their eligibility criteria, let’s delve into the federal grant opportunities available in Australia. These grants are offered by the Australian Government and cater to a wide range of industries, from technology and innovation to healthcare and biotechnology. 

Obtaining a federal grant can significantly impact your business growth and success. So, what are some of the federal grant opportunities you should consider? 

Australian Apprenticeship Incentives Program (AAIP) 

The Australian Apprenticeship Incentives Program (AAIP) is another federal grant opportunity that provides financial support for apprentice training. The program aims to encourage the commencement and retention of Australian Apprenticeships in priority occupations such as: 

• Aged care 
• Childcare
• Disability care  
• Enrolled nursing 

By offering a range of incentive payments to employers and apprentices, the AAIP may facilitate the training and development of Australia’s workforce.² 

For more information on eligibility criteria, please visit: https://www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au/aus-apprenticeships-incentives 

CSIRO Kick-Start Grant 

Another federal grant opportunity to consider is the CSIRO Kick-Start Grant, which provides assistance to small businesses for research and development (R&D) projects. The grant offers funding between $20,000 and $100,000, distributed in two rounds over the course of a year, and can cover up to 50% of an R&D project. 

To be eligible for this grant, your business must have an annual turnover of $1.5 million or three years of trading, an ACN/ICN, and be registered for GST.³ 

For more information on eligibility criteria please visit:
https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/CSIRO-KickStart 

State/territory-specific grants

In addition to federal grant opportunities, there are a number of state/territorial-specific grants available in different regions of Australia. These grants can provide a more localised source of funding, catering to the unique needs of businesses in each state or territory. 

From New South Wales to Tasmania, there are various grant opportunities designed to support your business. Let’s take a closer look at some of these state/territory-specific grants. 

Boosting small businesses in New South Wales (NSW): 

The business grants program offered by the NSW government provides support and resources to small businesses in the state.  

To be eligible, your business must be based in NSW and have fewer than 20 employees. By accessing this grant, you can give your small business the boost it needs to thrive in New South Wales.⁴ 

For more information on eligibility criteria, please visit:
https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/nsw-small-business-month-grant 

Grants for thrivingReady for Growth: Empowering Victorian Businesses (VIC) local enterprises (VIC) 

Ready for Growth is a program in Victoria, Australia, aimed at assisting businesses with high growth potential in expanding and accessing new markets. It is a joint effort between Business Victoria and BDO Australia. The program intends to support 1000 businesses until June 1, 2024. 

Eligible businesses must meet specific criteria, including operating in Victoria, having a valid ABN and WEN, operating for at least three years, employing between four and 200 individuals, generating annual revenues of less than $20 million, and complying with industrial relations obligations. Expressions of Interest for the program will be accepted until June 1, 2024, or until capacity is reached, whichever comes first.⁵ 

Participating businesses will receive personalised guidance and support from experienced growth facilitators with relevant industry expertise. These facilitators will offer advice to enhance business performance, overcome operational challenges, and make informed decisions and changes.  

For more information on eligibility criteria, please visit: 
https://business.vic.gov.au/grants-and-programs/ready-for-growth 

Business basics grant program in Queensland (QLD) 

The Business Basics Grant Program in Queensland (QLD) is another state-specific grant opportunity that supports small businesses in the region. This program provides financial support for activities such as: 

• Business planning 
• Marketing
• Financial management 
• Digital technology 

Eligibility requirements for this grant include being registered in Queensland, having a maximum of 20 employees, and having an annual turnover of less than $2 million. By taking advantage of this grant program, you can elevate the foundations of your business and set the stage for growth in Queensland.⁶ 

For more information on eligibility criteria, please visit:
https://www.business.qld.gov.au/starting-business/advice-support/grants/business-basics-grant 

Business growth plan in Northern Territory (NT) 

In the Northern Territory, the Business Growth Plan is a funding opportunity that facilitates businesses in accessing professional services to help boost performance, sustainability, and profitability. This program offers digital marketing support and assistance for eligible businesses in the Northern Territory. To be eligible, your business must be registered in the NT, have a turnover of less than $2 million, and have fewer than 20 employees. 

With this grant, your business can unlock its potential and bring in new customers from the NT and Australian Capital Territory.⁷ 

For more information on eligibility criteria, please visit:
https://nt.gov.au/industry/business-grants-funding/business-growth-program 

Strategic funding for SMEs in South Australia (SA) 

For businesses in South Australia, the grant is a crucial part of the state’s Small Business Strategy 2023-2030. This strategy is designed to provide assistance and encouragement to small businesses – so they can adapt, expand, and thrive. 

By tapping into this strategic funding, you can give your business the support it needs to overcome the challenges of the South Australian market.⁸ 

To learn more about available grants and their eligibility criteria, please visit: https://business.sa.gov.au/programs/grant-programs 

Empowering small business ventures (WA) 

Western Australia also offers a program that provides assistance to startups and small businesses in the region to facilitate the commercialisation of their innovative ideas or projects. To be eligible for this business grant, you must be a registered business in Western Australia, have an innovative concept or project idea, and a minimum of two years of trading history. 

This grant can be the catalyst your business needs to break into the Western Australian market and establish a strong presence.⁹ 

For more information on eligibility criteria, please visit:
https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-jobs-tourism-science-and-innovation/grants-assistance-and-programs-register-wa-industry 

Unlocking potential with grants in Tasmania (TAS) 

In Tasmania, the grant is provided by the Department of State Growth to furnish grants and loans to businesses and individuals in the region to support professional and sector development. Eligibility requirements for this grant include being located in Tasmania and having a business or project related to the grant’s purpose. 

By leveraging this grant, you can unlock the potential of your business and achieve success in Tasmania’s unique market.¹⁰ 

For more information on eligibility criteria please visit: https://www.stategrowth.tas.gov.au/grants_and_funding_opportunities 

Industry-focused grants: Targeting growth sectors 

Beyond federal and state/territory-specific grants, it’s important to explore industry-focused grants targeting growth sectors¹¹. These grants cater to specific industries, such as: 

• Technology and innovation 
• Creative industries 
• Agriculture and agribusiness 
• Tourism and hospitality 
• Environment and sustainability 
• Healthcare and biotechnology 
• Manufacturing and export 

By focusing on the unique needs of each industry, these grants can provide specialised support and funding to help your business thrive in a specific sector. 

Technology and innovation: Grants for tech startups 

For technology and innovation startups, there are a number of grants and funding options available to help propel your business forward. These grants are designed to support business innovation, customer growth, and industry research.  

By tapping into these resources, you can give your tech startup the boost it needs to make a lasting impact in the technology sector.¹² 

For more information on eligibility criteria, please visit:
https://australiangrants.org/funding-for-tech-businesses/ 

Creative industries: Funding for arts and culture ventures 

Creative businesses, such as those in the arts and culture sector, can also benefit from specialised grants and funding opportunities. These grants can provide financial assistance for projects that promote cultural development, artistic expression, community engagement, and job creation. 

By accessing these resources, you can help your creative business thrive and make a lasting impact in the community, including the area of youth justice.¹³ 

For more information on eligibility criteria, please visit:
https://www.arts.gov.au/cultural-data-online/government-cultural-funding-and-participation 

Agriculture and agribusiness: Grants for rural entrepreneurs 

Rural entrepreneurs in the agriculture and agribusiness sectors have access to a wealth of grants and funding opportunities to support their unique needs. These grants can provide financial assistance for projects that promote sustainable farming practices, enhance rural economies, and support the development of innovative agricultural technologies. 

By tapping into these resources, you can give your rural business the support it needs to flourish in the competitive agricultural market.¹⁴ 

For more information on eligibility criteria, please visit:
https://www.agriculture.gov.au/agriculture-land/farm-food-drought/drought

Tourism and hospitality: Supporting small tourism businesses 

Small tourism businesses can also benefit from grants and funding opportunities designed specifically for their industry. These grants can provide financial assistance for projects that promote local tourism, enhance visitor experiences, and support the growth of the tourism and hospitality sector. 

By accessing these resources, you can help your tourism business stand out in the competitive travel market and attract more visitors to your destination.¹⁵ 

For more information on eligibility criteria, please visit: https://www.austrade.gov.au/australian/tourism/grants-and-support-for-tourism-businesses 

Environment and sustainability: Grants for green initiatives 

Environmentally-focused businesses can tap into grants and funding opportunities that support green initiatives and sustainable practices. These grants can provide financial assistance for projects that promote environmental conservation, reduce carbon emissions, and support the development of clean energy technologies. 

By leveraging these resources, you can help your environmentally-focused business make a positive impact on the planet.¹⁶ 

For more information on eligibility criteria, please visit:
https://australiangrants.org/green-initiative-grants/ 

Healthcare and biotechnology: Grants for medical startups

Healthcare and biotechnology startups also have access to a range of grants and funding opportunities to support their innovative projects. These grants can provide financial assistance for projects that advance medical research, develop new treatments, and improve patient outcomes. 

By tapping into these resources, your medical startup will be better placed to impact the healthcare sector and improve the lives of many Australians.¹⁷ 

For more information on eligibility criteria, please visit: https://australiangrants.org/grants-for-businesses-in-healthcare/ 

Manufacturing and export: Funding for export-oriented businesses

Export-oriented businesses in the manufacturing and export sectors can benefit from grants and funding opportunities designed specifically for their unique needs. These grants can provide financial assistance for projects that promote export growth, enhance global competitiveness, and support the development of new manufacturing technologies. 

By accessing these resources, you can give your export-oriented business the support it needs to expand into new markets and achieve global success.¹⁸ 

For more information on eligibility criteria, please visit: https://www.austrade.gov.au/australian/export/export-grants 

Applying for small business grants 

Now that you’re familiar with the various grant opportunities available to your business, it’s time to learn about the process of applying for these grants. From evaluating eligibility to crafting a winning grant proposal, understanding the application process is crucial to securing the funding your business needs. 

Let’s dive into the steps for applying for small business grants. 

Evaluating eligibility: Essential financial statements and documentation 

Before applying for a grant, it’s important to gather the necessary financial statements and documentation to support your application. These documents may include: 

• Profit and Loss Statement 
• Balance Sheet 
• Cash Flow Statement 
• Tax Returns 
• Ageing Reports 

By having these documents readily available, you can ensure that your grant application accurately reflects the financial position of your business and demonstrates your eligibility for the grant program. 

For personalised guidance on preparing your application and assembling the necessary documentation, consider seeking professional advice. 

Crafting a winning grant proposal: Tips and best practices 

A well-crafted grant proposal can help secure the funding your business needs. To create a winning proposal, follow these steps: 

1. Research the grant provider and comprehend the grant requirements. 
2. Construct a comprehensive budget that outlines the expenses related to your project. 
3. Include charts, graphs, and other visual aids to illustrate your proposal’s impact. 

Finally, be sure to personalise your grant application to make it relevant to the program you’re applying for and to help it stand out from the competition. With a compelling grant proposal, you’ll be one step closer to securing the funding your business needs. To receive expert guidance tailored to your unique situation, it is highly recommended to consult a professional. 

Timing and deadlines 

When applying for grants, it’s essential to be aware of the timings associated with each program. Working to these deadlines is critical to ensuring that your application is reviewed and considered for funding. To stay on track, create a timeline that outlines the various stages of the application process, and make sure you submit your application well in advance of the deadline. 

This will all help improve your chances of securing the funding your business needs. 

How does the Australian government support small businesses? 

The Australian government supports small businesses through a range of grant opportunities at federal, state/territorial, and industry levels. These grants offer valuable funding to help businesses grow and succeed, and with the right resources and support, you can navigate the application process and unlock your business’s potential. Start your grant-seeking journey now. 

Resources for grant seekers 

In addition to the information provided in this handbook, there are many resources available to help you find and apply for small business grants. From government grant finders to industry associations and professional advisors, these resources can offer valuable support and guidance throughout the grant application process. 

Let’s explore some of the resources available to grant seekers, including new grants.

Government grant finder  

The Government Grant Finder is a powerful tool that can help you locate grants and funding opportunities tailored to your business’s needs. By searching the database, you can discover federal, state/territorial, and industry-focused grants that align with your business objectives. 

Make the most of this valuable resource by exploring the various grant options available and identifying the ones that best suit your business. 

Industry associations 

Industry associations are another valuable resource for grant seekers, offering: 

• Information, resources, and support specific to your industry sector 
• Access to industry-specific grants 
• Networking opportunities 
• Advice from other businesses in your sector 

By joining an industry association, you can gain access to these benefits and enhance your chances of securing grants. Keep in mind that membership criteria vary by industry, so be sure to consult with professionals for industry-specific advice. 

Don’t overlook the potential benefits of engaging with industry associations to help you find and apply for the right grants for your business.¹⁹ 

Professional advisors 

Finally, professional advisors, such as accountants, lawyers, grant writers, and consultants, can offer invaluable guidance and expertise throughout the grant application process. These advisors can help you identify the appropriate grants for your business, understand the eligibility criteria, and craft an effective grant proposal. 

By enlisting the support of professional advisors, you can increase your chances of securing the funding your business needs to thrive. 

Disclaimer: 

_{Information current as of 30^th August 2023} 

_{Tyro may from time to time provide links to other websites for information purposes. The inclusion of links does not imply endorsement or support by Tyro of any of the linked information, services, products, or providers. Tyro does not accept any responsibility for any errors, omissions or reliability of such content and any use thereof is solely at the user’s risk. Please undertake your own assessment before relying on it.} 

References:

_{1 Funding for incubators to assist start-ups to succeed in international markets
https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/incubator-support-new-and-existing-incubators
2 Support for Australian Apprentices
https://www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au/aus-apprenticeships-incentives
3 Matched funding for start-ups and small business to access CSIRO support
https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/CSIRO-KickStart
4 NSW Small Business Month Grant
https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/nsw-small-business-month-grant
5 Business Victoria – Ready for Growth 
https://business.vic.gov.au/grants-and-programs/ready-for-growth} 

_{6 Business Queensland: Business Basics Grants Program
https://www.business.qld.gov.au/starting-business/advice-support/grants/business-basics-grant
7 NT.GOV.AU Business Growth Program
https://nt.gov.au/industry/business-grants-funding/business-growth-program
8 South Australia’s Small Business Strategy 2023 – 2030
https://business.sa.gov.au/about/strategy
9 Grants Assistance and Programs Register for WA industry
https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-jobs-tourism-science-and-innovation/grants-assistance-and-programs-register-wa-industry
10 Tasmanian Government: Department of State Growth
https://www.stategrowth.tas.gov.au/grants_and_funding_opportunities
11 Delivering business innovation grants and initiatives
https://www.industry.gov.au/science-technology-and-innovation/industry-innovation
12 Grants Assist: Funding For Tech Business
https://australiangrants.org/funding-for-tech-businesses/
13 Government cultural funding and participation
https://www.arts.gov.au/cultural-data-online/government-cultural-funding-and-participation
14 Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry: Current grants and assistance}
https://www.agriculture.gov.au/agriculture-land/farm-food-drought/drought

_{15 Grants and support for tourism businesses
https://www.austrade.gov.au/australian/tourism/grants-and-support-for-tourism-businesses
16 Grants Assist: Green Initiative Grants
https://australiangrants.org/green-initiative-grants/
17 Grants Assist: Grants for Businesses in Healthcare
https://australiangrants.org/grants-for-businesses-in-healthcare/
18 Australian Trade and Investment Commision: Export Market Development Grants
https://www.austrade.gov.au/australian/export/export-grants
19 Industry Associations
https://www.accc.gov.au/business/competition-and-exemptions/associations-and-professional-services/industry-associations}