Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce
FOR many Queensland small businesses, the challenge is no longer finding demand but finding the capacity to meet it.
Orders increase, opportunities present themselves, yet growth stalls when equipment, systems or workforce capability can’t keep pace.
That reality is at the centre of the Queensland Government’s Business Growth Fund, which is currently open to eligible businesses seeking to invest in specialised equipment that enables genuine expansion.
More than a funding opportunity, the program reflects a broader push to strengthen productivity, innovation and employment across the State.
What sets this grant apart is its focus on outcomes rather than spend.
Applicants are being asked to clearly articulate how an equipment investment will translate into measurable increases in production capacity, efficiency and output.
This isn’t about replacing ageing machinery; it’s about demonstrating how a business can scale, service new markets or significantly improve its operations.
Innovation also sits firmly in the spotlight.
The fund encourages businesses to think beyond business-as-usual and consider how technology or process improvements can enhance competitiveness and long-term sustainability.
For some, this may mean automation or digital integration.
For others, it may involve adopting technology that enables faster turnaround, improved precision or new service offerings.
The emphasis is on modernising operations in a way that positions businesses for future growth.
Employment outcomes are equally critical.
Businesses must show how the investment will support job creation or workforce development, whether through new roles, apprenticeships or the upskilling of existing staff.
In a tight labour market, projects that build skills internally and strengthen workforce capability are being viewed as particularly valuable.
The Business Growth Fund is targeted at established Queensland businesses with fewer than 20 employees and annual turnover between $500,000 and $10 million.
Successful applicants must also be financially sound and able to co-contribute at least half of the project cost, reinforcing the expectation that funded projects are well planned and commercially viable.
Registrations of Interest close at 5pm on January 30.
More information can be found on the Business Queensland website.
