Manufacturing-related innovation projects are among five initiatives to receive a share of $6.9 million in funding under the Australian Government’s Industry Growth Program, with support aimed at helping businesses commercialise new products, processes and services.
According to the Australian Government, the latest round of grants targets priority areas aligned with the National Reconstruction Fund, including projects spanning advanced manufacturing, sustainable materials and biotechnology.
In the manufacturing sector, Aston Dynamics will receive $1.5 million to finalise prototypes of its hydraulic jet technology for electric trailer braking systems. The funding is also intended to support scaling of manufacturing capabilities and facilitate entry into international markets.
Bioborne has been awarded $2,267,343 to scale its closed-loop microalgae production system, which uses artificial intelligence. Following trials, the company aims to develop a new range of bio-fertilisers intended to improve crop yields.
C Sea Solutions will receive $2,107,300 to scale production of Uluu, a seaweed-based alternative to plastic packaging. The funding will support further trials, certification processes and commercialisation, with the company targeting initial sales in sustainable packaging for cosmetics.
Seascape Restorations Australia, trading as Immersion Group, has been allocated $750,000 to develop a patented photobioreactor system for cultivating native seaweed designed to reduce methane emissions. The project is expected to include two new patent applications and demonstrate the feasibility of a modular production system.
Levur has been granted $250,000 to further develop its precision fermentation process for producing sustainable palm oil derivatives, with applications across cosmetics, nutraceuticals and food.
The Australian Government said the Industry Growth Program provides free, tailored advisory services to start-ups and small to medium enterprises, alongside matched grant funding for eligible businesses seeking to expand and commercialise innovations.
