Entrepreneurs in new and emerging industries in regional NSW will be supported to grow their business and revenues, raise funds, and create local jobs, thanks to the NSW Government’s new $2 million Accelerating Regional Innovation Fund.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said grants of between $300,000 and $700,000 will be available to accelerator and incubator programs in regional NSW that support regional entrepreneurs and start-ups in emerging sectors and future industries.
“Regional entrepreneurs face additional challenges to their city counterparts, including access to best practice, customers, supply chains, partners and funding,” Mr Saunders said.
“These grants will support programs that provide the knowledge, skills, training, networking and investment opportunities that will help the newest businesses in regional NSW to prosper.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said regional entrepreneurs face additional challenges to their metropolitan counterparts, including ready access to supply chains, partners, funding, and even customers.
“We know our regional and rural areas are places where you can turn a dream into reality, and I’m so pleased this fund is helping these pipeline ideas come to life,” Mr Toole said.
“This new fund will assist businesses access the right expertise to improve their capability and competitiveness, drive economic growth, and will equip regional entrepreneurs with the skills they need to lead change.”
The Fund supports the 20-year Economic Vision for Regional NSW and the NSW Government’s priorities, and plans to achieve long-term economic success for regional NSW communities.
Applications open on 4 August 2022 and close 30 September 2022 at 2pm.
For further information about the Accelerating Regional Innovation Fund, including program guidelines and eligibility criteria, go to: www.nsw.gov.au/ARIF