- Applications are open for the Innovation Booster Grant, offering support to WA startups and small to medium enterprises
- Funding can help businesses develop commercially ready products, validate prototypes and access specialist expertise
- Since 2021, more than $6.6 million in grants has supported WA innovators, assisting nearly 200 businesses
- The next grant round opens on 10 March and closes on 30 March 2026
Western Australia's brightest innovators are being encouraged to take their next big leap, with applications now open for the latest round of the Cook Government's Innovation Booster Grant (IBG), delivered through the New Industries and Innovation Fund (NIIF).
The IBG supports early-stage founders, innovation-driven small to medium enterprises (SMEs), and startups across the State to strengthen capabilities and fast-track the commercialisation of innovative projects. Grants of up to $50,000 are available for businesses developing solutions aligned with Western Australia's priority sectors outlined in Diversify WA.
Through the IBG, businesses can access funding to:
- develop or refine products and services to reach commercial readiness;
- test, validate or certify a minimum viable product;
- secure expert consultancy in areas such as intellectual property, marketing and commercialisation; and
- solve complex technical challenges that require external specialist support.
Many startups face significant hurdles in turning great ideas into market-ready products. The IBG helps remove these barriers, connecting founders with the support and services needed to accelerate their path to market.
Since 2021, more than $6.6 million has been awarded through the IBG, helping nearly 200 Western Australian founders, SMEs and startups progress their innovations and strengthen the State's growing innovation ecosystem.
To encourage diverse participation, there are reduced matched funding requirements for businesses headquartered in regional WA, as well as First Nations founded and female founded enterprises.
Applications open today, Tuesday, 10 March 2026 at 10am and close Monday, 30 March 2026 at 4pm.
An online information session for prospective applicants is scheduled for Tuesday, 17 March 2026, 9am-10am.
For more information, visit:
As stated by Science and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson:
"Western Australia is home to some of the nation's most exciting innovators, and the Innovation Booster Grant continues to give early-stage founders the support they need to turn great ideas into commercial outcomes.
"This round strengthens our commitment to regional, female and First Nations founded businesses by ensuring they have greater access to the capital and expertise required to scale.
"By backing local innovation, the Cook Government is not only helping individual businesses succeed, but we're also boosting jobs and strengthening Western Australia's reputation as a leading destination for technology development and product testing."
