Queensland’s startup scene is getting a fresh boost with the launch of new funding rounds for two of the state’s key innovation programs, the Ignite Ideas Fund and the Ignite Spark Program.
Unveiled this week by the state government, the latest initiative is designed to take promising business ideas from prototype to market-ready, with up to $200,000 in funding available to small and medium-sized enterprises with high-growth potential.
The Crisafulli Government is backing our bright sparks, and we are excited to announce the latest funding initiative, designed to bolster businesses with cutting-edge ideas, said Minister for Science and Innovation Andrew Powell.
Two programs, one mission
The Ignite Ideas Fund supports Queensland-based small and medium-sized businesses ready to take their product or service into local and international markets. It offers two tiers of support, up to $100,000 for 12-month projects, and up to $200,000 for longer projects spanning 24 months.
The companion Ignite Spark Program, which provides grants of up to $75,000, focuses on helping startups prepare their innovations for customer trials, a critical step toward full-scale commercialisation.
Impact and past success
To date, more than 450 businesses have received support through the Ignite Ideas Fund, while an additional 40 companies have secured backing through the Ignite Spark Program. Among them is Helitak Fire Fighting Equipment, now a global name in aerial firefighting, and Worms Downunder, which has scaled sustainable waste solutions through commercial worm farming.
These success stories, Minister Powell noted, underscore the far-reaching impact of government-led innovation funding.
It can be difficult to attract investors in the field of innovation, but these programs will give SMEs the funds to continue their business journey, he said. We know the support of these projects can fast track innovative products and services from prototype to commercially viable, allowing Queensland businesses to tap into new markets.
He also emphasised the broader economic benefits, saying that means more jobs and opportunities for Queenslanders. Supporting innovative initiatives will showcase Queensland’s potential as a global leader in the highly competitive innovation economy.
Beyond financial support, successful applicants will also be eligible for the Ignite+ program, which provides critical business development assistance. This includes mentoring, customer acquisition strategies, legal and IP advice, and access to investor networks.
The programs align with the government’s commitment to economic diversification, regional growth, and innovation-led job creation.
Who’s eligible and how to apply
The grants are open to Queensland-based businesses with no more than 50 full-time equivalent employees, and applicants must not be subsidiaries of larger entities. First-time Tier 1 applicants are required to contribute 20 percent of the grant value in cash, while Tier 2 applicants must match the funding amount in full.
Expressions of Interest are open now and close at 10:00 AM on May 26, 2025. Selected businesses will then be invited to submit full applications in the second stage of the process.
To apply visit Ignite Ideas Fund and Ignite Spark Program.
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