15 February 2012

The Nationals Member for Burrinjuck and Minister for Small Business, Katrina Hodgkinson, is encouraging small and medium businesses in regional NSW to apply for up to $15,000 worth of access to research equipment and technical expertise to help them become more innovative and competitive.

"Eligible small to medium businesses can now apply for the second round of the NSW Government's TechVouchers, which has a total of $500,000 available," Katrina said.

"The TechVouchers pilot program develops commercialisation pathways by establishing connections between industry and research organisations.

“The vouchers, worth up to $15,000, help businesses get better access to cutting-edge research to develop and improve their products, services and practices.

“The NSW Government is committed to increasing investment and growth opportunities for NSW businesses by fostering and supporting innovation.

"This is particularly important for businesses in regional areas," Katrina said.

Businesses from a range of industries are eligible to apply, including those in agriculture, ICT and manufacturing among others. To apply for a TechVoucher, businesses need to propose a project which will significantly benefit from a partnership with a research organisation – whether it is for further research, clinical trials or access to scientific equipment to support product development.

“I encourage businesses in regional NSW to consider how their products and services might be improved through partnering with a research organisation," Katrina said.

“The NSW Liberals and Nationals Government is particularly keen to see applications from businesses that have not previously worked with universities or researchers, and businesses located in regional NSW.”

For more information including application forms and guidelines visit www.business.nsw.gov.au/techvouchers