Four incubators will receive more than $1.7 million to help Australian start-ups in sectors like agricultural technology and advanced manufacturing.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews says the successful applicants will receive the funding under the Liberal National Government’s Incubator Support initiative.

"Incubators like these and the start-ups they support play an important role in creating high-value Australian jobs, contributing to increased productivity and bringing new products and services to market," Minister Andrews said.

"The start-ups will be able to test their prototypes and learn important business skills, such as driving more sales growth and how to go global.

"The Liberal National Government will continue encouraging quality incubators and start-ups to help drive more economic growth and job creation."

The latest funding offers will assist two projects from Queensland:

•  Rockhampton Regional Council’s SmartHub Rockhampton turbo-traction lab will deliver an 80-day workshop program with a lab focus to help participants build modern businesses.
• Central Highlands Development Corporation and partner X-Labs present AgFrontier: New Agtech Incubator for regional and remote start-ups to provide regionally based agribusiness start-ups with the opportunity to become confident participants in global markets.

One project from South Australia:

• The University of South Australia’s Innovation and Collaboration Centre Whyalla – a hub for regional SA will provide a dedicated co-working space and program of support, including fast gigabit network speeds and expert mentoring, to help start-ups reach their global capacity.

One project from New South Wales:

• Cicada Innovations' Rapid prototyping space and design thinking capabilities for start-ups will foster a community of innovators by delivering design thinking programs to support and direct prototyping activities among start-ups.

The $23 million Incubator Support initiative is part of the Australian Government’s Entrepreneurs’ Programme.

For more information on the recipients go to www.business.gov.au/incubator-recipients

To apply for an Incubator Support grant, visit www.business.gov.au/assistance/incubator-support

Media contact: Minister Andrews' office (02) 6277 7070