Queensland start-ups and small businesses can apply for up to $250,000 funding to advance their innovative products and services under Round 4 of the Advance Queensland Ignite Ideas fund.

State Member for Morayfield, Mark Ryan, said the Ignite Ideas fund had supported more than 200 Queensland businesses to date, with $26.5 million of funding creating more than 1000 new jobs.

“The enthusiasm from business for the first three rounds of Ignite Ideas funding has been outstanding,” Mr Ryan said.

“The Ignite Ideas program has supported applicants from a diverse range of sectors including tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, engineering, renewable energy, information technology, virtual reality, safety and construction.

“Through this Advance Queensland program, the Queensland Government is providing innovative businesses with opportunities to take their ready-to-market idea to the next level.

“I’m encouraging small businesses and innovators in our region to get their applications in for Round 4 of the program – it really is too good an opportunity to miss.”

Projects are assessed on their ability to commercialise innovative products and to demonstrate job creation and a positive effect for our economy.

Innovation Minister Kate Jones said the Advance Queensland Ignite Ideas program targets businesses with fewer than 200 staff, with a suitable working prototype that is ready to be turned into a commercial reality.

“Advance Queensland is the Palaszczuk Government’s $518 million initiative to diversify Queensland’s economy, create the jobs of the future and build Queensland’s reputation as a global innovation and investment destination,” she said.

More information on the program is available on the Advance Queensland website https://advance.qld.gov.au/entrepreneurs-startups/ignite-ideas-fund.aspx