The Australian government offers a significant amount of support for small business. There are several programs available that can help not only with business funding, but also with other areas as well. There are a number of federal funding programs available from the federal government, as well as through state and territorial governments. Some local councils also have small business funding programs. In addition to business loans, certain types of businesses may even qualify for an outright grant.
Federal grants and loans are available from several sources, and for several different types of businesses. If you have a business that will promote tourism, you may be eligible for funding from the Australian Tourism Development Program. And if you think you can figure out a way to make our outstanding Australian wines even better than they already are, the Grape and Wine Research and Development Corporation may have funding for you. And with an eye towards the future and Australia's digital future, the Information Technology Online (ITOL) program provides grants to promote widespread adoption of e-business solutions among small to medium sized businesses.
Business enterprise centres (BECs) located throughout the country are an especially useful type of organization that can help with small business funding, as well as guidance through the network of regulations and paperwork that are required for starting a business. Businesses that are run by, or benefit local indigenous communities may also qualify for special funding assistance through the Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) program.
Australia's Small Business Enterprise Culture Program (SBECP) provides funding for mentoring for new small businesses, as well as projects for developing high-level skills. And the Small Business Incubator Program (SBIP) offers startups an entire existing infrastructure of support services and advice, shared equipment and premises, as well as advice and a significant amount of support. Participating in the SBIP program gives a small business an excellent start and access to resources that may otherwise be hard to come by for a new startup business.
Once you've found funding for your small business, your local Area Consultative Committee (ACC) can also help with the many challenges faced by startups. Community members from this volunteer organization, in partnership with the Australian government, can usually provide a wealth of information on government programs that can benefit your business.