The NSW Government has opened applications for a new $6 million fund aimed at helping manufacturers adopt new technologies, improve productivity and strengthen local manufacturing capability.
The Innovative Manufacturing Adoption Fund will provide support across two stages, with $1 million available in the first stage for manufacturers to assess technologies and manufacturing capabilities.
Grants of between $10,000 and $50,000 will support activities including feasibility studies, pilot projects, process testing, equipment assessments and certification.
Minister for Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement Courtney Houssos said the initiative would support manufacturers in adopting innovation and technology.
“We are partnering with industry to encourage local manufacturers to create a stronger and more resilient industry that can compete on the global stage,” Houssos said.
“The Innovative Manufacturing Adoption Fund will support local manufacturers with new ideas and help them transition to a secure future through innovation and technology.”
A second stage, scheduled to open in early 2027, will provide a further $5 million in competitive grants to support the implementation of new technologies and the scaling of manufacturing operations.
The fund is open to NSW manufacturers across sectors including construction, clean energy, transport, defence and aerospace, health and medtech manufacturing.
Minister for Industry and Trade and Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said the program was intended to help businesses move from research and ideas towards practical manufacturing applications.
“This fund will help manufacturers take the leap from good ideas to real-world adoption of the technologies that are transforming industries around the globe,” Chanthivong said.
“We know NSW has world leading research and innovation ecosystems and we’re excited to see how their work can be commercialised in the manufacturing sector.”
Australian Industry Group Head of NSW Helen Waldron welcomed the funding, saying it could help manufacturers expand operations and continue investing in innovation.
“Manufacturing is an engine of innovation, reinvesting 4.1% of value-added back into R&D – the highest rate of any industry in Australia,” Waldron said.
Applications for the first stage close on 6 October 2026, or earlier if available funding is fully allocated.
