nbn looks for innovative ideas from Australian businesses

Entries are now open for the 2023 Innovate with nbn Grants Program. Run in partnership with the Regional Australia Institute – there is $125,000 in grants available for innovative businesses in regional and remote Australia to help them bring their bright ideas to life.

Eligible regional Australian businesses are encouraged to apply for one of the seven categories including: Health, Agriculture, Tourism, Arts, Education, Indigenous Business and Women in Business.

The winner of each category will receive a $15,000 grant. Each of the category winner will go into the pool to become the overall winner and receive an additional $20,000.

nbn Chief Development Officer Regional and Remote Gavin Williams, said, “We are looking for businesses that are harnessing the benefits of the nbn® network to develop products or solutions that improve digital participation, productivity or social outcomes for regional and remote Australians,” he said.

“Several of our previous winners have not only brought their ideas to life, but also expanded their businesses and operations.

“Among them is our 2022 overall winner, TerraLab. The San Remo (VIC) based business developed the STA logger which is helping to revolutionise land management and create new efficiencies in weed control and elimination.”

Their hardware and software solution – STA logger – uses the internet to help accurately log data, work, statistics, produce and public maps and help landowners with weed and pest management and manage planting, saplings and crops.

“The depth of innovative ideas and talent from our entries improves year-on-year,” Williams said.

“If you are a business, with an idea that you might need a little help to bring to life or expand I strongly encourage you to apply and potentially become a part of our growing alumni.”

Applications close at midnight Friday 29 September 2023.

There is $125,000 in grants available to innovative businesses in regional and remote Australia to help them bring their bright ideas to life.

Finalists and winners are those harnessing the benefits of the nbn network to develop products or solutions that improve digital participation, productivity, or social outcomes for regional and remote Australians.

Finalists are spread across seven categories that include: Health, Agriculture, Tourism, Arts, Education, Indigenous Business and Women in Business.

The winner of each category will receive a $15,000 grant. Each of the category winners are entered into a pool to become the overall winner (and Champion) and receive an additional $20,000.