Key takeaways
- If you're a business in Australia you might be able to take advantage of a grant or other program from federal or state governments.
- Businesses can choose from financial support as well as advice and mentorship.
- Governments will also provide additional support for businesses affected by natural disasters or other special circumstances.
What grants and schemes are there for businesses?
Businesses can often benefit from schemes like financial grants, loans and non-financial support like consultancy and mentoring.
These might be provided by federal or state governments, community organisations, or financial institutions.
These incentives are often for particular industries or for particular reasons, such as to make energy efficient upgrades.
Businesses can also find additional support in the aftermath of natural disasters or other unprecedented circumstances like in the COVID-19 pandemic.
Am I eligible for a grant or scheme?
There are hundreds of possible grants, schemes and programs so it's important to check within your own state or territory to see if you're eligible for anything.
There are different schemes depending on whether you're a startup or a well-established business. There are also grants and other programs specifically for Aboriginal owned and operated businesses.
What support is there in my state?
Each state will allocate funds as part of their annual budgets to go towards supporting businesses through grants and programs.
You should check your state or territory website for up-to-date opportunities.
If you're an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander hoping to set up a new business or you already run a business, you may be able to find support through Indigenous Business Australia. This includes low cost finance to help with working capital, equipment finance or invoice finance.
Support for businesses after natural disasters
If you've been affected, you should check your state or territory website for information or speak to your business bank.
How can I apply for a grant or scheme?
You can usually apply for a grant or other scheme online.
- Search for any grants or schemes you're eligible for. You can do this through your state government website or you can search on business.gov.au. Your business bank may also support you with grant options.
- Check eligibility. Make sure you and your business are eligible for the funding or program you're interested in. Be sure of the closing date of applications as well.
- Gather documents. You may need to provide business documents as well as proof of eligibility of the scheme.
- Apply online. Submit an application through the website and upload any necessary documents.
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