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New Grants Available to Regional Queensland Manufacturers Totaling $5 Million

Made in Queensland MIQ

The Queensland Government has called for applications for the fourth round of the Manufacturing Hubs Grant Program (MHGP), enabling regional manufacturers to access up to $5 million in funding. The manufacturing grant program is designed to increase effectiveness, drive the implementation of new technologies, and generate employment in strategic locations in Queensland.

MHGP Overview

The Queensland Government’s Manufacturing Hubs Grants Program is part of a $33.5 Million investment to grow Queensland’s small and medium-sized manufacturers. The program is directed at Cairns, Townsville, Central Queensland, Mackay, and the Gold Coast businesses.

Key features of the MHGP include:

  • This grant comes in a range of $10,000 to $500,000
  • Applications are open until 30th June 2025, or if funds are allocated.
  • The strategic objectives are improving efficiency, new working models, and innovation.
Manufacturing Hubs Grant Program

Eligibility and Project Types

Eligible businesses must be:

  • Small and medium enterprises with a total headcount of less than 200 full-time employees
  • Carrying out business operations in or with significant business operations in the eligible geographies
  • Must carry out manufacturing activities according to the program requirements.
Manufacturing Hubs Grant Program. Eligible Activities Grants will be available to successful applicants to support development of their advanced manufacturing capabilities through the following Eligible Activities: • technology adoption • skills and training • business development • ARM Hub services.

The MHGP supports various project types:

  • Technology Adoption: Adopting new manufacturing technologies such as robotics, automation systems and advanced digital solutions.
  • Skills and Training: Building the workforce capacities through professionally enhanced education programs and courses.
  • Business Development: Developing and enhancing business operations such as implementing new systems and expanding production abilities.
  • Advanced Robotic Manufacturing Services: Implementing robotic solutions into the current process of production.

Application Process

To apply for the MHGP:

  1. Start by getting in touch with your regional Manufacturing Hub to discuss the project and eligibility.
  2. Develop a comprehensive project agenda, including costing and business case plan.
  3. Fill out the application form online for submission of your application.
  4. Wait for an assessment to be given by a panel of experts.

Those successfully shortlisted will be required to enter a grant agreement and complete their project within the set period.

Impact and Success Stories

The Manufacturing Hubs Grant Program has already made a substantial impact on Queensland’s regional manufacturing sector:

  • 101 regional manufacturing projects supported
  • More than 1,700 new jobs were created or supported
  • Over $42 million was generated for private-sector capital Ventures

One success story of a company that has benefited from the MHGP is JSIS Engineering. It is located in Mackay and received $50,000 in the earlier round. With this funding, JSIS Engineering bought electric ovens and dispensing equipment to automate the manufacturing process of polyurethane products in the company. It is also expected that through its implementation, the company will save on energy, increase productivity, and create 15 jobs.

Broader Manufacturing Strategy

The MHGP is considered one initiative the Queensland Government introduced to develop the manufacturing sector. Other initiatives include:

  • Made in Queensland (MiQ) Program: The $121.5 million initiative will spread to $2. 5 million for larger-scale projects, while grants for small-scale projects are considerably smaller.
  • Manufacturing Hubs: These are expertise centres offering advice, skills enhancement programs, and other services to help adopt technology.
  • Energy Efficiency Grants: Assisting the manufacturing industries to use less energy, reducing expenditure.

Such programs complement each other in developing Queensland as an advanced manufacturing state, focusing on Industry 4.0 technologies, workforce development, supply chain volatility, and practical manufacturing techniques.

Maximising Your Application’s Success

To increase your chances of securing funding:

  • Demonstrate a solid alignment to the program goals that are to be achieved.
  • Creates a compelling business case that must demonstrate results, preferably in numbers.
  • Prove that the project is financially feasible and that you are capable of finishing the project.
  • Describe possible job creation, especially in high-skilled jobs.
  • Consult with your local Manufacturing Hub of your region for more guidance.
  • Ensure that elaborate and correct documentation is done.
  • Consider the broader impacts on the regional manufacturing ecosystem.
  • Addressing sustainability aspects, if relevant.
  • Be accurate in setting and presenting realistic, well-planned project goals and timelines.

Conclusion

The Manufacturing Hubs Grant Program is an excellent chance for regional Queensland manufacturers to advance, innovate, and diversify.

In this round, $5 million is available, and businesses in a specific industry can significantly transform their operations, adopt cutting-edge technologies, and create more jobs for the future.

Interested Manufacturers in Queensland must apply quickly, as the funds will be allocated competitively. By taking advantage of this great program, manufacturers can strengthen their position in the Global Marketplace and eventually contribute to Queensland Manufacturing’s advancement program.

If you are a manufacturer who wants to start your application process, contact us today and visit the official MHGP website to learn more.

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