Grants for small businesses

There are several ways the Western Australian Government assists local small business, including tax waivers, temporary exemptions to planning requirements, and commercial tenancy legislation changes. The Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) offers a helpful round-up of details.

The SBDC also offers free online business workshops across a wide range of subjects, including digital skills, financial management and tendering and contracts if you fancy brushing up on your entrepreneurial skills.

Grants for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples

A number of WA initiatives aim to assist Aboriginal people in achieving business success and expanding their current operations.

The Business Development and Assistance Program provides Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders various services and resources. Businesses can apply at any time.

For those in creative industries, the Aboriginal Arts Commissioning Fund supports the cost of commissioning and developing new work.

Indigenous My Business provides a mix of services and products, including business skills workshops, and it’s worth making contact for details on possible initiatives that will benefit your business.

Grants for innovation

We often think innovation happens on a grand scale, but smaller innovations for small businesses is just as important and empowering. Some of the local opportunities in WA may have slipped under your radar, such as:

• The Belmont Business Innovation Grants to encourage innovative practices and products in City of Belmont small businesses. Focal points are business growth, supporting export growth, urban renewal and startups.
  
• The Town of Port Hedland is offering Business and Tourism Innovation Grants with coronavirus restrictions shifting the grant’s focus to the digital space. It also offers a wide range of ideas as to how different businesses could utilise the financing.
  

Tip: It might be worthwhile enquiring whether your local council has any active grants that may be applicable to your organisation.

Grants for market expansion

The Western Australian Government has made changes to the state's overseas trade offices that provide free and confidential service to companies set to export. This is along with the Perth base of the International Trade and Investment Division.

Grants for businesses impacted by COVID-19

The follow-on effects of the coronavirus pandemic have impacted some areas of business more than others.

The Apprenticeship and Trainee Re-Engagement Incentive WA provides financial assistance to help you employ an apprentice or trainee and support the economic recovery from the impact of COVID-19.

The City of Perth’s COVID-19 Grants and Sponsorship Program has programs to help the local business community recover from the impact of the pandemic. These are frequently updated – for tailored advice speak to the sponsorship team on 08 9461 3333.

If planning to apply for a grant, remember to read all the documentation to ensure your business meets the criteria. And don't forget to take note of the closing date for applications to give yourself a true chance at success.