1. Who Is Eligible?

The program is targeted at Queensland-based manufacturing SMEs that:

• Employ between 5 and 200 full-time equivalent (FTE) staff

• Generate the majority of their turnover from manufacturing

• Have an existing manufacturing presence in Queensland

• Are investing in advanced manufacturing equipment or systems integration software

This is not a startup grant. Businesses must be operational and able to co-invest in the project.

2. How Much Funding Is Available?

• Grant size: $100,000 – $1,500,000

• Funding structure: Matched funding (up to 50% of eligible project costs)

• Round 1 pool: $12.5 million available

• Regional allocation: 50% of Round 1 funding is allocated to regional Queensland businesses

This means businesses must be prepared to fund at least 50% of the total project cost.

3. What Projects Are Eligible?

Projects must support at least one of the following program objectives:

• Improve productivity and competitiveness

• Create export pathways

• Reshore or onshore manufacturing activity

• Generate jobs and stimulate private sector investment in Queensland

Eligible investments may include:

• Robotics and automation systems

• Advanced CNC and production equipment

• Industry 4.0 upgrades

• ERP, MES or MRP systems integration

• Digital transformation of manufacturing processes

The program is clearly focused on advanced manufacturing capability — not general operational expenses.

Key Dates

• Applications are open now

• Closing date: 16 April 2026 at 1:00pm (AEST)

• Assessment period: Up to 16 weeks after closing

Given the competitive nature of matched funding grants, early preparation is strongly recommended.

Why This Grant Matters

Queensland’s manufacturing sector is under increasing pressure to:

• Improve efficiency

• Compete globally

• Offset labour constraints

• Accelerate digital transformation

This grant provides an opportunity to significantly reduce the capital cost of major equipment upgrades or automation projects.

If your business is already planning investment in robotics, advanced machinery or integrated software systems, this funding could materially improve your return on investment.

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Next Steps

If you are a Queensland manufacturer considering:

• Automation upgrades

• Advanced machinery investment

• Production efficiency improvements

• Digital integration projects

Now is the time to assess eligibility and begin preparing your application.

For full guidelines and eligibility criteria, refer to the official program documentation, or reach out for a chat about your best approach.

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