The McGowan Government and MTPConnect are investing $400,000 into local businesses to boost Medical Technology and Pharmaceutical manufacturing (MTP) through the $16.7 million New Industries Fund.
The new program aims to accelerate the development and manufacturing of MTP products in Western Australia, such as medical devices, diagnostics, biologics and pharmaceuticals.
Grants of between $50,000 and $100,000 will capitalise on WA's significant capability in MTP research to grow the sector and generate new job opportunities.
The program is being delivered by the MTPConnect WA Life Sciences Innovation Hub, which is co-funded through the WA Government's New Industries Fund, industry growth centre MTPConnect and The University of Western Australia.
The New Industries Fund was established to support and accelerate new and emerging businesses to diversify the Western Australian economy and create local jobs.
Applications for the WA MTP Manufacturing Voucher Program close 12pm Monday, June 7, 2021. The program requires at least 1:1 matching cash contribution from applicants.
More information about the program and how to apply is available from http://www.mtpconnect.org.au/programs/WAMTPManufacturingVoucherProgram
As stated by Innovation and ICT Minister Don Punch:
"WA is home to some exciting and innovative life sciences companies, and the McGowan Government is supporting these companies to begin manufacturing their technology locally.
"The new Manufacturing Voucher Program will enable more WA small and medium enterprises to get their products to market, while diversifying our economy and creating more jobs.
"Businesses looking to manufacture their medical technology or pharmaceuticals locally are strongly encouraged to apply for matched funding through this exciting new program."
As stated by Science Minister Roger Cook:
"Since the start of the pandemic we have seen first-hand the importance of local medical technology and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
"Between 2017 and 2019 the number of life sciences companies in Western Australia increased by more than 50 per cent, a clear indication of the growth of the sector.
"Through this Manufacturing Voucher Program we aim to support more Western Australian businesses to continue their growth in the industry, and begin manufacturing their products right here in WA."
