The Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to small business growth and sustainability in the Caboolture region was reinforced today with the opening of the third round of the Small Business Digital Grants Program.

State Member for Morayfield Mark Ryan said digital capability was essential for success in today’s online world, and the ongoing popularity of this grants program proved Queensland small businesses are keen to embrace digital technologies and the opportunities they present.

“Already we’ve seen over four hundred small businesses share in more than $2 million from the first two rounds of the Small Business Digital Grants Program,” Mr Ryan said.

“These small businesses now have access to digital technologies and services to enable them to work smarter, engage with the global economy, and make the most of online business opportunities.

“Under the $22.7 million Advancing Small Business Queensland Strategy 2016-20, we’ve committed $6 million over three years to this program to ensure small businesses have the support they need to start, grow, and employ.

“The Small Business Digital Grants Program will allow small businesses to access the latest digital technologies to increase their productivity and competitiveness, which will lead to business growth and more jobs for Queenslanders.”

Mr Ryan said funding received through the program can be spent on the purchase of hardware, software, and services such as digital coaching.

Funding of up to $10,000, matched by participants, is available to eligible Queensland small businesses.

To be eligible, a business must show the digital technology or service purchased and adopted will enhance the digital capabilities of their business and help them to be more competitive and employ more staff.

Applications close 24 October 2017. For more information, including eligibility criteria, visit www.business.qld.gov.au/digital