The NSW Government has announced $400,000 in funding for 19 organisations through the latest round of its Fostering Innovation Sponsorship Program, supporting events and initiatives aimed at creating jobs, attracting investment and strengthening the state’s innovation ecosystem, including priorities such as local manufacturing.
According to the NSW Government, the funding will support innovation festivals, climate technology awards, health innovation exchanges and artificial intelligence-focused programs across metropolitan and regional NSW.
The government said the initiatives align with its Innovation Blueprint and Industry Policy, which prioritise sectors including housing, net zero and the energy transition, alongside local manufacturing.
Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said the investment was intended to strengthen the state’s long-term economic performance.
“The Minns Labor Government understands that investing in innovation is investing in jobs, productivity and the long-term strength of our economy,” Mr Chanthivong said.
“Our Innovation Blueprint and Industry Policy are driving that work, backing the industries and technologies that will power growth in NSW.”
He said the program was focused on practical support for businesses and entrepreneurs.
“This isn’t about an announcement, it’s about delivery. Through practical initiatives, we’re supporting the people turning ideas into real businesses and connecting them with the capital and expertise they need to scale,” he said.
“By aligning this investment with our priorities in clean energy, housing and local manufacturing, we’re building a stronger, more resilient economy and positioning NSW for the future.”
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said the funding would support innovation and industry in regional NSW.
“The Hunter is an innovation powerhouse and this investment puts our money where our mouth is to support the people, ideas and businesses driving our region’s future,” Ms Catley said.
“This is the Minns Government backing local ideas, jobs and industry to ensure our region – and the people who power it – continues to thrive.”
Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said several funded initiatives would encourage greater participation by women in innovation.
“By supporting a more inclusive and diverse innovation sector, we’re creating a stronger economy with advancements that benefit everyone,” Ms Harrison said.
Among the recipients is Western Sydney Women, which will deliver its Women Leading AI: Connecting, Scaling & Growing in Western Sydney initiative. Founding director Amanda Rose said the event would bring together around 120 female founders, entrepreneurs, industry leaders and students, with a focus on culturally and linguistically diverse and underrepresented communities.
“We are grateful for the support of the NSW Government in growing a more inclusive innovation ecosystem that reflects the talent and potential of our communities,” Ms Rose said.
Hunter iF will receive funding for the 2026 Hunter Innovation Festival and Regional Roadshow. Chief executive Zara Crichton said the program would help connect innovators with investment and expertise.
“Through our festival and regional roadshow, we’ll connect people, ideas and capital to turn ambition into real outcomes. The NSW Government’s continued support is helping us scale that momentum across the region,” Ms Crichton said.
EnergyLab is also among the recipients and will use the funding to launch its Climate Investment and Growth Series in Sydney. Chief executive Megan Fisher said the initiative would connect startups with investors while supporting greater participation by women investors.
The 19 funded organisations include the Australian Computer Society, Cicada Innovations, Climate Salad, Business Western Sydney, UNSW Founders, Western Sydney University, the University of Newcastle and the University of Sydney, with projects spanning regional innovation, health, climate technology, artificial intelligence and investment.
