Industry Capability Network (ICN) SA

Purpose and Program Overview

The Industry Capability Network (ICN) SA, part of a national network, connects South Australian suppliers with project owners to maximise local industry participation in major projects. It aims to increase economic activity, create jobs, and promote the capabilities of local businesses, particularly small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs), through the ICN Gateway platform.

While ICN SA itself is not a grant program, it facilitates access to procurement opportunities and supports businesses in securing contracts for projects like the Hunter Class Frigates and Torrens to Darlington. The program strengthens South Australia’s economy by linking local suppliers to sectors such as defence, energy, and infrastructure.

Key Grant Details

• Grant amount: Not applicable; ICN SA provides access to project opportunities, not direct funding.
• Application open and close dates: Open year-round for ICN Gateway registration.
• Eligible industries or business types: Manufacturing, construction, defence, energy, mining, and related services.
• Required co-contributions: No financial contributions required for registration; paid subscriptions are optional for enhanced visibility.
• Location/state/territory applicability: South Australia.

Priority Sectors

The program prioritises manufacturing, minerals, mining, energy, transportation, ICT, food and beverage, engineering, furniture, fabrics, and plastics, with a focus on defence, infrastructure, and clean energy projects.

Funding Scope

• Minimum and maximum amounts: Not applicable; focuses on procurement opportunities, not grants.
• Categories or streams of funding:
  • Supplier connections: Matching businesses with project work packages.
  • Capability promotion: Enhancing visibility through ICN Gateway profiles.
  • Procurement support: Assisting with expressions of interest and tender processes.
• Project timeline or eligible funding duration: Ongoing, tied to project-specific timelines.

Grant Amount in Total

Not applicable; ICN SA does not offer a direct funding pool but facilitates access to over $400 billion in project opportunities nationally.

Eligibility Criteria

• Business structure or size: Any business, particularly SMEs, capable of supplying goods or services.
• Registered business location: South Australia preferred, but open to Australian businesses.
• Minimum/maximum turnover: Not specified.
• Insurance or compliance obligations: Must meet project-specific procurement requirements.
• ABN/GST status: Active ABN required; GST registration if applicable.

Eligible Activities and Expenses

• Creating and maintaining ICN Gateway company profiles.
• Submitting expressions of interest for major project work packages.
• Engaging with ICN SA consultants for procurement advice.
• Participating in ICN SA workshops or networking events.
• Promoting capabilities for defence, mining, or infrastructure projects.

Assessment Process

• Competitive or entitlement-based: Competitive, based on project-specific procurement processes.
• Key evaluation criteria:
  • Supplier capability and alignment with project needs.
  • Local content contribution and economic impact.
  • Compliance with Australian Industry Participation (AIP) requirements.

Recent Program Updates

ICN SA continues to support major projects like the Hydrogen Jobs Plan, with a dedicated ICN Gateway page for supplier registrations. Recent workshops, such as the 2025 Port Augusta Profile Improvement Workshop, have enhanced supplier visibility. The program aligns with the South Australian Government’s focus on local content and economic growth.

Application Tips

• Register a detailed company profile on ICN Gateway to maximise visibility.
• Regularly update capabilities to align with project requirements.
• Attend ICN SA workshops to improve profiles and network with buyers.
• Contact ICN SA consultants early to discuss project opportunities.

Where to Get Help

Consider consulting with a professional grant specialist like Pattens Group for an initial assessment of procurement opportunities and project alignment. Visit www.icn.org.au for guidelines and support.