- Expressions of Interest open to operate two new innovation hubs focused on creative technologies and digital futures
- Hubs will help innovative WA start-ups develop scalable products, services and business models
- $2.7 million committed over three years through the $40 million New Industries and Innovation Fund
- Cook Labor Government backing WA innovators and start-ups to diversify the economy and create jobs
The Cook Labor Government is seeking operators for two State-funded innovation hubs designed to accelerate research, entrepreneurship, and high-value job creation across key sectors.
Expressions of Interest are now open to operate the WA Creative Technologies Innovation Hub and the WA Digital Futures Innovation Hub.
The hubs will support proven early-stage innovative start-ups to develop scalable products, services, and business models, while providing expert guidance to help businesses progress towards the scaleup phase.
The WA Creative Technologies Innovation Hub will deliver programs and support to creative industries throughout Western Australia, with particular attention to regional communities and opportunities.
It will nurture partnerships and develop new collaborations with creative technology and innovation partners locally, nationally, and internationally.
The WA Digital Futures Innovation Hub will focus on strengthening Western Australian business capability in artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, and other emerging technologies.
The convergence of AI, data, and cybersecurity is transforming how digital systems are developed, deployed, and protected. Together, these technologies will underpin more productive, secure, and competitive businesses across the State.
By bringing together start-ups, industry, government, researchers, and the broader innovation ecosystem, the hubs will help accelerate technology adoption, attract investment, and support the development of new industries.
The hubs are supported through the Cook Labor Government's $40 million New Industries and Innovation Fund.
The WA Creative Technologies Innovation Hub will receive $1.2 million over three years, while the WA Digital Futures Innovation Hub will receive $1.5 million over three years. Both are expected to be operational from 1 July 2027.
Expressions of Interest close on Thursday, 5 November at 5pm AWST.
For more information or to submit an Expression of Interest, visit Expressions of interests (EOI) open to operate two new WA innovation hubs
As stated by Science and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson:
"Western Australia's innovation sector is going from strength to strength, and these new hubs will give promising local startups the support they need to develop, grow, and compete, positioning the State as a global leader in innovation.
"The innovation hubs are vital for connecting businesses with expert guidance, research capability, and valuable industry networks, helping turn innovative ideas into scalable products and services.
"By investing in creative technologies, AI, data science, and cybersecurity, the Cook Labor Government is growing WA's economy and creating new opportunities for businesses across the State."
