- Applicants can now apply for X-TEND WA funding, which supports the WA innovation ecosystem, at any time during the year
- An evaluation panel will meet twice a year to review the latest applications, giving applicants two opportunities for funding
- The program has been expanded, adding a new stream for Broader Ecosystem Support
Organisations supporting Western Australia's innovation ecosystem now have more opportunities to apply for X-TEND WA funding.
Innovation and the Digital Economy Minister Stephen Dawson today announced the popular grants scheme will now be open year round, instead of the previous once-a-year four-week window.
This open year format gives potential applicants the flexibility to apply for the grant when their project is ready and when it suits them.
Also announced today was the expansion of the program to offer funding for initiatives which provide Broader Ecosystem Support.
It's hoped this new stream will encourage co-working spaces, entrepreneurs in residence, incubators, and innovation hubs to educate and build networks in WA, promoting a more diverse and inclusive innovation ecosystem.
Applications will be particularly welcomed for initiatives that aim to improve entrepreneurial and/or investor education for regional, female and Aboriginal entrepreneurs and innovators.
X-TEND WA is part of the Cook Government's $25.8 million New Industries Fund (NIF), which aims to accelerate new and emerging businesses and support projects that build entrepreneurship, innovation and commercialisation to accelerate venture creation, economic diversification and support WA jobs.
The previous round of X-TEND WA aimed to help emerging local founders and startups to become investor ready, and stimulate private investment in innovative WA projects.
For more information on the X-TEND WA program, and how to apply, visit: https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-jobs-tourism-science-and-innovation/new-industries-fund-x-tend-wa-program-grants
As stated by Innovation and the Digital Economy Minister Stephen Dawson:
"Giving entrepreneurs, founders, investors and ecosystem builders the opportunity to apply for X-TEND WA on their own time means they aren't in danger of missing a funding window.
"Successful recipients of the previous round were announced last month and included nine investor and entrepreneurship education programs who are set to receive over $680,000 in funding.
"The Cook Government has committed $16.7 million to the NIF over four years (2021-2025) with an additional $9.1 million provided for 2023-25 to support the State's Innovation Strategy and Innovation Action Plan."
