Grants up to $100,000 announced for “renewables and low emission” project feasibility studies

The federal government has opened a new round of the Business Research and Innovation Initiative (BRII), offering grants of up to $100,000 to startup and SME companies targeting “renewables and low emission practices”.

In a statement from industry minister Ed Husic on Monday, companies were invited to submit their “innovative proposals for ideas that address key challenges”, with backing helping develop and test these over three months. The current funding round is budgeted at $7.5 million.

The three challenge areas are given as

• Increasing energy efficiency of commercial fishing operations
• Powering safe drinking water for Australian First Nations remote communities
• Alternative packaging for premium Australian wine

The $50,000 to $100,000 grants are for ideas at the feasibility stage, with grantees successfully demonstrating this potentially being invited to apply for another competitive grant of up to $1 million to develop a proof of concept. Feasibility projects are expected to be complete by November.

(Further eligibility information is available here.)

“We want to challenge small and medium businesses to make a strong contribution to Australia’s circular economy,” said Husic.

“These grants are an opportunity to bring Australian know-how to solve some of our most pressing economic and social issues, including renewables and low emission practices.”

More information on BRII can be accessed at this link.

Picture: credit Wine Australia