The Best Small Business Grants Available in Australia

 

Starting or growing a small business in Australia can be challenging, especially when it comes to securing funding. Fortunately, various government and private grants are available to help small businesses thrive. These grants can provide essential financial support for innovation, expansion, technology adoption, sustainability initiatives, or workforce training.

In this comprehensive guide, you will learn about the top small business grants available across Australia in 2025, how to determine eligibility, where to find applications, and how to maximize your chances of success.

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Why Consider Small Business Grants?

• Non-repayable funding: Unlike loans, grants don’t need to be repaid.

• Support growth and innovation: Grants often target specific sectors, innovation, and development goals.

• Help with specific projects: Many grants support technology upgrades, export initiatives, sustainability, and digital transformation.

• Improve credibility: Winning grants enhances your business profile and credibility with customers and investors.

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1. Understanding the Different Types of Small Business Grants in Australia

Grants come from various sources:

• Federal Government Grants: National-level grants available to businesses across Australia.

• State and Territory Grants: Each Australian state or territory has its own grants targeting local businesses.

• Industry-Specific Grants: For sectors like agriculture, tech, manufacturing, and creative industries.

• Local Council Grants: Small scale, targeted grants to support local business growth and community engagement.

• Private and Non-Profit Grants: Offered by private organizations or industry bodies.

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2. Top Small Business Grants Available in Australia in 2025

2.1. Business Growth Grants (Federal Government)

Boosting Female Founders Initiative

• Purpose: To support female entrepreneurs in technology sectors.

• Who Can Apply: Female-led startups or businesses in tech innovation.

• Benefits: Funding to scale and commercialize innovative technology solutions.

• Where to Apply: business.gov.au

Entrepreneurs’ Programme

• Purpose: Provides funding and expert advice to help small businesses innovate and grow.

• Components: Includes grants for R&D, business management, and market development.

• Eligibility: Small to medium businesses with potential for growth and export.

• How to Apply: Through the Entrepreneurs’ Programme portal

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2.2. Digital and Innovation Grants

Digital Solutions - Australian Government’s Digital Grants

• Purpose: Help small businesses adopt digital technologies to improve efficiency.

• Eligibility: Small businesses employing fewer than 20 people.

• Funding: Covers costs of software, hardware, and training.

• Application: Via business.gov.au digital solutions

Accelerating Commercialisation Grant

• Purpose: Assist businesses to commercialize new products, processes, or services.

• Who Can Apply: Small and medium businesses and researchers.

• Grant Amount: Up to 50% of eligible project costs, capped at AUD 1 million.

• Application Process: Online application with business plan and commercialization strategy.

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2.3. Sustainability and Green Grants

Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) Loans and Grants

• Purpose: Support for energy-efficient upgrades and renewable energy projects.

• Target: Small businesses aiming to reduce carbon footprint.

• Benefits: Grants and low-interest loans for solar, battery storage, and other clean tech.

• Where to Apply: Clean Energy Finance Corporation

Environmental Grants by State Governments

• Various state programs provide funding for sustainability projects, waste reduction, and water efficiency.

• Check with your state environment or energy department for current offers.

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2.4. Export and International Trade Grants

Export Market Development Grants (EMDG)

• Purpose: Support small businesses to develop export markets.

• Benefits: Reimburses up to 50% of eligible export promotion expenses above AUD 5,000, capped at AUD 150,000 per year.

• Eligibility: Australian businesses with an annual turnover of less than AUD 50 million.

• Application: Submit via the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) website.

• More Info: Export Market Development Grants

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2.5. Industry-Specific Grants

Agriculture Business Grants

• Offered by the Australian Department of Agriculture and state governments.

• Focus: Support for agribusiness innovation, productivity, drought resilience, and sustainability.

• Examples: The National Landcare Program, Drought Business Support Grants.

Creative Industries Grants

• For businesses in film, music, arts, and digital media.

• Grants support production, marketing, and international promotion.

• Check with bodies like Screen Australia and local arts councils.

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2.6. State and Territory Small Business Grants

New South Wales Small Business Grants

• NSW Small Business Digital Grants Program helps businesses go digital.

• Jobs for NSW provides innovation grants and startup funding.

Victoria Small Business Grants

• Business Support Fund for operational expenses.

• Sustainability Victoria offers grants for green business upgrades.

Queensland Business Grants

• Small Business Digital Grants.

• Ignite Ideas Fund for startups and innovation.

Other states and territories offer similar grants – check local government websites.

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3. How to Find and Apply for Small Business Grants in Australia

Step 1: Identify Your Business Needs and Goals

• Are you starting out or growing?

• Do you need funding for innovation, digital transformation, or sustainability?

• What industry are you in?

Step 2: Research Available Grants

• Use government portals like business.gov.au, your state government websites, and industry bodies.

• Register for updates on new grants and deadlines.

Step 3: Check Eligibility Criteria

• Carefully read eligibility rules.

• Some grants require matched funding or specific business size.

Step 4: Prepare a Strong Application

• Provide a clear project description.

• Outline the business benefits and expected outcomes.

• Include financial details and budget.

• Demonstrate how the funds will be used effectively.

Step 5: Submit Before Deadlines

• Many grants have limited windows for applications.

• Submit early and retain copies.

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4. Tips to Improve Your Chances of Winning a Grant

• Align your project with grant objectives.

• Provide evidence of business viability.

• Use professional language and clear formatting.

• Seek expert advice if needed (business advisors or grant consultants).

• Showcase innovation and community benefits.

• Highlight how funding will make a measurable impact.

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5. Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Applying for grants you don’t qualify for.

• Missing deadlines or incomplete applications.

• Lack of detailed budget or financial projections.

• Poor alignment with grant priorities.

• Neglecting to follow up or report on funded projects.

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6. What Happens After You Receive a Grant?

• Use funds strictly as outlined in your proposal.

• Keep detailed records of expenses.

• Submit progress and financial reports as required.

• Use the grant to leverage further investment or growth opportunities.

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7. Alternative Funding Options Besides Grants

• Small business loans and credit lines.

• Crowdfunding platforms.

• Angel investors or venture capital.

• Government subsidies and tax incentives.

• Partnerships and collaborations.

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Conclusion

Small business grants in Australia offer valuable opportunities to access non-repayable funds that can accelerate growth, innovation, and sustainability. By carefully researching the grants available, understanding eligibility, and preparing compelling applications, Australian entrepreneurs can secure critical support to thrive in a competitive market.

For up-to-date information, always visit official government websites and seek professional advice tailored to your business.

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Useful Resources & Links

• business.gov.au Grants & Programs

• Australian Trade and Investment Commission - Austrade

• Clean Energy Finance Corporation

• Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)

• Your relevant state or territory government website (e.g., nsw.gov.au, vic.gov.au, qld.gov.au)