The Government of Western Australia said it has partnered with BHP and CORE Innovation Hub to deliver $500,000 in grants through the Made in the Pilbara initiative, aimed at supporting business growth and diversification in the region.
According to the WA Government, 11 Pilbara businesses will receive funding to develop projects intended to drive innovation, expand local capability and create new employment and training opportunities.
The projects are expected to generate more than 40 jobs and 14 apprenticeships, and to unlock more than $800,000 in private sector investment, the government said in a news release.
Made in the Pilbara was developed by CORE Innovation Hub with support from the Cook Government through the Local Manufacturing Investment Fund (LMIF), alongside co-investment from BHP.
The WA Government said nearly $14 million has been allocated to Western Australian-based businesses under the fund to date.
Manufacturing and Pilbara Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said the initiative would strengthen the State’s manufacturing base.
“By supporting local businesses to grow and diversify, we’re helping to create more skilled jobs, strengthen regional supply chains, and build long-term capability in our manufacturing sector,” she said.
Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel said the program reflected the government’s focus on regional economic development.
“I’m proud to be part of a government that’s diversifying the Pilbara’s economy and ensuring our region continues to drive the national economy forward,” he said.
BHP Western Australia Iron Ore Asset President Tim Day said the initiative would support local industry participation.
“Initiatives like this build long term capability and help to keep the Pilbara firing,” he said.
“Made in the Pilbara gives local businesses the chance to innovate, grow and compete – while creating skilled employment and training opportunities in the communities where we operate. A strong local supply chain really strikes at the heart of our strategy in the region.”
Further information is available on the CORE Innovation Hub website.
