Grants bonanza tops $470 million for small business

More than 200 Queensland small businesses will today find out if they’re a recipient of the latest round of business grants from the Palaszczuk Government.

The announcement of the Business Boost Grant recipients brings the total grant funds provided to small businesses since March 2020 to more than $470 million.

Minister for Employment and Small Business Di Farmer said backing small business is vital for the state’s economic growth.

“The Business Boost grants of up to $15,000 were announced earlier this year as part of our Big Plans for Small Business Strategy, along with Business Basics and Business Growth,” the Minister said.

“This round of Business Boost means 210 small businesses will be able to do things like upgrade their website, strategic marketing, and training and coaching thanks to more than $2.6 million in Palaszczuk Government support.

“Our strong health response has kept lockdowns short and sharp, our economy growing, and our businesses open and trading.

“But we know the impact of COVID-19 is being felt, which is why we’ve provided this support and why we’ve put backing small business at the heart of our $14.5 billion Economic Recovery Plan.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our local communities and we want to support them, their families and their customers.”

Internet Safe Education director Brett Lee said a $15,000 Business Boost grant would help the Ipswich-based business create Australia’s first Cyber Safety Subscription Hub.

“Our Cyber Safety Hub has been designed to provide parents and carers with all the resources necessary to create a safe online environment for children,” he said.

“It will provide subscribers with access to cyber-safety webinars – both live and recorded – podcasts, presentations, up to date articles and resources for schools, educators, parents and carers.

“Everyone needs to be safe online and this grant will help us continue to deliver cyber safety education and resources.”

Nicky Montgomery is the director of Australia's largest weaving and fibre arts supply store, Brookfield business The Thread Collective.

She said a $15,000 Business Boost grant would help her business plan for the future.

“This grant will enable us to move from a start-up business to develop, diversify and become more efficient,” Ms Montgomery said.

“Our plans are to expand into manufacturing, launch and grow our Australian cotton yarn range, expanding into export markets.”

Minister Farmer said the Palaszczuk Government has provided more than $470 million in grants to small businesses since March 2020.

“We’ve supported small businesses with over $182 million in COVID-19 Adaptation Grants, more than $283 million through jointly-funded COVID-19 Business Support Grants and $12.4 million through our Big Plans for Small Business grants so far,” Ms Farmer said.

“And there’s more to come.

“It’s clear the Palaszczuk Government backs small business – and we always will.”

More information about all small business grants programs visit www.business.qld.gov.au or call the 24/7 Small Business Hotline on 1300 654 687.

ENDS

Media contact: Ben Brew 0468 839 551