The Morrison Government is helping business access global markets with applications now open for round two of the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Export Hubs Initiative.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the initiative supports industry to develop hubs in local and regional areas, giving local firms access to international markets and driving job creation.

“The SME Export Hubs Initiative is a critical part of the Government’s broader economic plan to create 1.25 million new jobs over the next five years,” Minister Andrews said.

“Export hubs provide local businesses with market intelligence about export opportunities and access to global supply chains that align with the competitive strengths of the local area.

“The initiative builds business networks to help small and medium businesses harness opportunities in international markets, particularly where the Government has signed free trade agreements including in China, Japan, Korea and Indonesia.”

Export hubs can operate in six key industry sectors: advanced manufacturing, cyber security, food and agribusiness, medical technologies and pharmaceuticals, mining equipment and services, and oil, gas and energy resources.

These sectors were identified under the Government’s Industry Growth Centres Initiative as having future economic and jobs growth potential for Australia.

The SME Export Hubs Initiative will provide each hub with matched funding of up to $1.5 million for projects up to two years five months in length.

Matched funding can come from sources other than the Commonwealth such as state and local governments and industry.

Nine export hubs were successful in round one of the initiative, with over $5.7 million in grant funds awarded.

The Government is committed to promoting small business growth in Australia through a variety of schemes including the SME Export Hubs Initiative, the Industry Growth Centres Initiative and the Entrepreneurs’ Programme.

For more information on export hubs visit www.business.gov.au/SMEEH

Media contact: Minister Andrews' office 02 6277 7070