Trade Missions QLD

Purpose and Program Overview

Trade Missions QLD is being run by the Queensland Government, through Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ). The intent is to connect Queensland businesses with opportunities in overseas markets. These missions help businesses expand and grow their export activities. The programs are part of a broader strategy to increase Queensland’s global presence.

There are two types of missions: outbound and inbound. Outbound missions take Queensland products and producers overseas. Inbound missions bring international buyers and investors to Queensland. The goal is to facilitate new business relationships and market entry for local companies.

The grant plays a key role in supporting the export industry. It helps businesses overcome financial barriers to international expansion. It provides a direct link between Queensland businesses and potential global partners. This helps to create new jobs and drive economic growth.

Key Grant Details

• Grant amount or funding range: This is a grant for participation in a program, not a direct cash grant. Some related TIQ grants, like the Go Global Export Program, offer between $10,000 to $25,000 in matched funding.
• Application open and close dates: There are no open or closed dates for the trade mission program itself. TIQ runs missions throughout the year. You must apply for a specific mission.
• Eligible industries or business types: A broad range of Queensland businesses are eligible. This includes small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with up to 200 full-time-equivalent employees.
• Required co-contributions: Some related TIQ grants, like the Go Global Export Program, require a 1:1 matched cash contribution.
• Location/state/territory applicability: Businesses must have a company address headquartered in Queensland.

Priority Sectors

The Trade Missions QLD program is open to a wide range of sectors. TIQ focuses on areas where Queensland has a competitive advantage. This includes agriculture, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.

Funding Scope

• Minimum and maximum amounts per stream: The total amount depends on the specific trade mission or related grant. The Go Global Export Program offers up to $25,000 in matched funding.
• Categories or streams of funding: Funding is not a direct grant. It is a subsidy for participating in a specific program. The program can support export market development activities.
• Project timeline or eligible funding duration: This depends on the specific trade mission. Related grants may require projects to be completed within 12 months.

Grant Amount in Total

The total funding pool is not a single amount. Funding is allocated to specific trade missions and related grant programs throughout the year.

Eligibility Criteria

• Business structure or size: Small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This includes sole traders, companies, and incorporated trustees.
• Registered business location: Headquartered in Queensland. The principal place of business must be in Queensland.
• Minimum/maximum turnover: Not specified, but businesses must have a trading history of at least two full financial years.
• Insurance or compliance obligations: Not specified.
• ABN/GST status: Must have an active ABN and be registered for GST.

Eligible Activities and Expenses

The Trade Missions QLD program supports activities related to export market development. Eligible activities can include:

• Participation in trade missions.
• Business matching and networking.
• Market entry strategy development.

Assessment Process

The program is competitive. TIQ assesses applications for trade missions. An independent panel assesses applications for related grants like the Go Global Export Program. Key criteria can include:

• Export readiness: The business must be pre-qualified by TIQ as export-ready.
• Project merit: The project’s ability to deliver new export sales.
• Benefit potential: The potential for job creation and increased export revenue.

Recent Program Updates

The Trade Missions program is an ongoing initiative. Specific missions are announced on the TIQ website throughout the year. Related grants, like the Go Global Export Program, operate in specific rounds with published open and close dates.

Application Tips

• You must be a TIQ client or become one to apply.
• Speak to a TIQ trade advisor to get pre-qualified as export-ready.
• Demonstrate your business’s capability to succeed in a new export market.
• Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements for the specific mission or grant you are applying for.

Where to Get Help

Consider consulting with a professional grant specialist like Pattens Group. We offer initial assessments to review your business’s eligibility and evaluate how well your project aligns with the grant’s objectives. You can also visit relevant government websites for application templates and further guidance.