Funding to help small businesses jump in to the digital economy

Small Business Minister Leeanne Enoch today opened a second round of the popular Small Business Digital Grants to help small businesses boost their digital capability.

Speaking at a Logan business breakfast and digital expo today, Minister Enoch said 155 businesses shared in $1 million in funding from first round of the Small Business Digital Grants program.

“The overwhelming response from Queensland small businesses when we launched this program demonstrates that businesses are ready and eager to adopt digital technology,” Minister Enoch said.

“These successful applicants will now have access to digital technologies and services to enable them to work smarter, engage with the global economy and make the most of online business opportunities.”

Minister Enoch said the Palaszczuk Government was committed to providing Queensland small businesses with the support they need to succeed through programs like the Small Business Digital Grants initiative.

“Under the Advancing Small Business Queensland Strategy we’ve committed $6 million over three years to this program to ensure that Queensland small businesses have the support they need to start, grow and employ,” Minister Enoch said.

“The Small Business Digital Grants program will assist small businesses to access the latest digital technologies to increase their productivity and competitiveness, which will lead to businesses growth and more jobs for Queenslanders.

“Funding to previous recipients has helped a tourism business introduce an integrated online reservation and booking system; another business is redesigning their website and yet another is trialling a new mobile application for the health industry.

“The Small Business Digital Grants can help businesses make practical improvements to help them be globally competitive in a digital economy.

“Funding of up to $10,000, matched by participants, is available to eligible businesses for the purchase of hardware, software and services such as digital coaching.

“If you’ve ever thought about developing an app for your business, or you’d just like to upgrade your business’s digital technology, these grants offer the opportunity to make it happen.”

To be eligible Queensland businesses must show that the digital technology or service purchased and adopted will enhance the digital capabilities of their business and help them to be more competitive and employ more staff.

Further information and eligibility criteria is available at www.business.qld.gov.au/digital.

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